Why Make This Recipe
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines the flavors of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese with a custardy egg mixture, all baked to perfection. This casserole is easy to prepare, making it a great option for feeding a crowd. You can also assemble it the night before, letting the flavors meld for a more rich taste in the morning. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to impress!
How to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup diced turkey
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup for serving (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the bread slices in the bottom of the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread.
- Layer the diced ham, turkey, and shredded Swiss cheese over the bread.
- Top with the remaining bread slices.
- Pour the rest of the egg mixture on top, ensuring all bread is soaked.
- Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup if desired.
How to Serve Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
You can serve Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole warm straight out of the oven. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust it with powdered sugar and drizzle maple syrup on top. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out the meal.
How to Store Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole can last up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it back up in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
- Use day-old bread for a better texture; it holds up better in the egg mixture.
- Feel free to mix up the cheeses; cheddar or pepper jack can add a different flavor.
- For added crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Variation
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a veggie twist. Adjust the types of meat or cheese based on what you have in your fridge, making this casserole very versatile.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and leave it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning.
2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! French bread or challah works great too and adds its own flavor.
3. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions. Just wrap them well and reheat them from frozen, adding a bit of extra time.
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the bread slices in the bottom of the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread.
- Layer the diced ham, turkey, and shredded Swiss cheese over the bread.
- Top with the remaining bread slices.
- Pour the rest of the egg mixture on top, ensuring all bread is soaked.
- Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup if desired.