This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a warm, tasty dish that combines eggs, ham, and cheese, all layered together with sweet bread. It’s like a breakfast sandwich turned into a cozy casserole!
Perfect for brunch or special mornings, it’s super easy to make. Just toss everything in a dish and let the oven do the work. I love serving it with a side of fresh fruit for a yummy start to the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Bread: The base of this casserole is soft white bread. If you want a richer flavor, you can use challah or brioche. Gluten-free bread is also a great alternative if you need to cater to gluten sensitivities.
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds heartiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey ham works well. You can also use cooked sausage for a different flavor.
Bacon: The crunch of bacon contrasts nicely with the soft bread. You can substitute turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may vary.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese gives that classic Monte Cristo taste. If you can’t find it, cheddar or provolone are good substitutes. Mixing cheeses adds depth to the flavor!
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can use 2% or a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk. If you want it richer, half-and-half is delicious!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Well Soaked and Fluffy?
Soaking the bread in the egg mixture is crucial for achieving that rich, fluffy texture. Here’s how to ensure your casserole turns out perfect:
- Press the mixture gently with a spatula after pouring the egg mixture to ensure all bread pieces are soaked.
- Letting the casserole sit for 15 minutes is essential—it allows the bread to absorb the custard well.
- If you prepare it the night before, cover it and refrigerate. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before baking.
Following these tips will help your casserole rise beautifully and be light and fluffy when it comes out of the oven! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 8 slices of white bread, crusts removed and cubed
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup cooked and chopped bacon
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or a mix of Swiss and cheddar)
Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup or raspberry preserves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare and approximately 45-55 minutes to bake. Plan for an additional 15-minute absorption time before baking. All in all, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for an impressive brunch or holiday breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Base:
In the prepared dish, layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. This will create the delicious base for your casserole.
3. Add the Meats:
Sprinkle the diced cooked ham and cooked bacon evenly over the bread layer, ensuring it’s well distributed for an even flavor in each bite.
4. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle your shredded Swiss cheese (or the cheese mix of your choice) over the ham and bacon. This cheesy layer is what makes this casserole extra delicious!
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using) until the mixture is fully combined and looks smooth.
6. Combine Layers:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, ham, bacon, and cheese. Using a spatula, press gently on the bread to ensure it absorbs as much of the egg mixture as possible.
7. Let It Rest:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the bread soak up the egg mixture better, making it fluffier when baked.
8. Bake Your Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into portions.
10. Add Final Touches:
Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Serve your Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole warm, with maple syrup or raspberry preserves on the side for drizzling or dipping!
Enjoy your Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole—a savory, sweet, and utterly delightful dish perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Bread?
Yes! Whole wheat bread can add a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option. If you’re gluten-sensitive, gluten-free bread works well too, ensuring the texture is retained for a delicious casserole.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it well, and refrigerate it. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to swap out the meats for your favorites, like sausage or turkey. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the amount of cheese and eggs accordingly to maintain balance.