Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, all baked into a warm, comforting dish. It combines fluffy eggs, melty cheese, ham, and a touch…
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The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, all baked into a warm, comforting dish. It combines fluffy eggs, melty cheese, ham, and a touch of sweet jam, all layered with soft bread that’s slightly crispy on top. It’s like having breakfast and brunch rolled into one tasty casserole.
I love making this casserole when I have guests over or for a special weekend breakfast—it feels fancy but is actually very easy to put together. Adding a little powdered sugar and a drizzle of syrup on top is my favorite way to bring out that classic Monte Cristo flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover bread or ham in the fridge.
This dish always brings smiles because it’s both sweet and savory, and every bite is full of comforting flavors. I find it’s perfect when served with fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. It’s a breakfast that feels like a treat but is perfect for sharing with a crowd—or just keeping all to yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick white bread or brioche is best because it soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart. If you’re avoiding gluten, try a sturdy gluten-free bread, but be gentle when soaking.
Eggs & Milk: These create the custard base. Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can swap for half-and-half or a plant-based milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Ham: Use cooked, thinly sliced ham for salty, savory bites. Turkey or Canadian bacon work well if you want a leaner meat alternative or less saltiness.
Cheese: Swiss or Gruyère bring that creamy, nutty flavor that melts perfectly. You can try mozzarella or mild cheddar if you prefer a different taste, but avoid very strong cheeses that might overpower.
Berry Jam: The jam adds a sweet, fruity contrast typical of Monte Cristo dishes. Raspberry or blackberry are my favorites, but strawberry or apricot preserves are great alternatives. If you want less sugar, use less jam or a sugar-free variety.
How Do I Get the Bread to Soak Up the Custard Perfectly?
One challenge with this casserole is ensuring the bread absorbs enough egg mixture to be soft inside but not soggy. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut the bread into large cubes or chunks to give the custard a good surface area to soak into.
- After layering the bread, ham, and cheese, pour the egg and milk mixture slowly over everything. This helps it sink evenly.
- Gently press down with your spatula or hands to help the bread absorb the custard fully.
- Let the casserole sit at room temp for 10-15 minutes before baking. This resting time is key for the bread to soak up the liquid well.
During baking, the custard sets around the bread, creating that soft, custardy texture inside while the top crisps lightly. If you skip the soaking step, the middle can feel dry or uneven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering bread, ham, and cheese and baking evenly.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend the custard mixture without lumps.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for pressing down the bread into the custard and mixing layers.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate egg and milk ratios and seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for cooked turkey or Canadian bacon for a leaner protein option that still pairs well with cheese.
- Try different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder melt or sharp cheddar for a tangy bite.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to sneak in some veggies and boost flavor.
- Use apricot or strawberry jam instead of berry for a sweeter, fruitier twist.
How to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8-10 slices of thick white bread or brioche, crusts removed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 8 oz cooked ham, sliced thinly
- 8 oz Swiss cheese or Gruyère, sliced
- ½ cup berry jam or preserves (raspberry or blackberry work well)
For the Dish:
- Butter or non-stick spray, for greasing the dish
- Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed
This casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35 to 45 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 10-15 minutes before baking for the bread to soak up the egg mixture. So total, plan for around 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Grease the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Cut Bread and Whisk Eggs:
Cut each slice of bread into large cubes or chunks. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme until it’s smooth and combined.
3. Layer the Casserole:
Place the bread cubes evenly into the baking dish. Tuck thin slices of ham and cheese between the bread pieces so every bite has a little bit of each. Drizzle and gently spread berry jam over the top in streaks, adding a sweet contrast.
4. Add Egg Mixture and Soak:
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, ham, and cheese. Press down lightly to help the bread soak up the custard evenly. Let the dish sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to absorb the egg mixture fully.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-45 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden and slightly crisp. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For a classic touch, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve with maple syrup on the side for extra sweetness if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the bread completely before cutting it into cubes. Using slightly stale or day-old bread actually helps it absorb the custard better without becoming mushy.
Can I Prepare the Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking to help the custard soak in evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a little maple syrup if you want to refresh the sweetness.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
You can use cooked turkey, Canadian bacon, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor. Just make sure the meat is cooked before layering into the casserole for best results.
