Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that marries sweet and savory in the most comforting way. Picture the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, reimagined as a cozy breakfast casserole—perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings. It’s filled with layers of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, all soaked in a rich custard, then baked to golden perfection.

This dish becomes not just a meal but a delightful experience, allowing you to savor tender bread that’s perfectly crispy on top. Whether you’re feeding the family before a big day or hosting friends for a special brunch, this casserole brings warmth and joy to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of a baked breakfast casserole that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a hit for many reasons:

• Quick to Assemble: With just a few minutes of prep, you can pop this casserole in the fridge overnight, making it a breeze for weekday mornings or weekend brunches.
• Family-Approved: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting dish, making it a go-to for family meals.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or an everyday breakfast, you can serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar and jam for that classic Monte Cristo experience.

“I made this for brunch with friends, and they couldn’t get enough! The combination of flavors is just fabulous.”

Preparing Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Making this casserole is a simple process that’s as enjoyable as eating it. You’ll want to gather your ingredients and preheat the oven, then let the deliciousness unfold.

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What You’ll Need

• 8 slices of bread (white or brioche)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 pound ham, sliced
• 1/2 pound turkey, sliced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• Powdered sugar for serving
• Jam for serving (optional)

Don’t hesitate to swap out the bread for a gluten-free version or use provolone cheese if that’s what you have on hand!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Arrange half of the bread slices in a single layer in the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Layer the ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese over the bread.
4. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread layers, ensuring everything is soaked well.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best results.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, then serve warm dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by jam. If the edges brown too quickly, cover the casserole with foil halfway through baking.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this casserole warm, and don’t forget the powdered sugar and your favorite jam on the side for an added touch of sweetness. Pair it with fresh fruit or a classic side of crispy bacon for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare considering how delicious this is), let them cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm up the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For longer storage, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Just bake it straight from the freezer, allowing for extra time in the oven.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• For an extra flavor kick, try adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the layers.
• If you want to lighten up the dish, opt for low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Make sure to use enough egg mixture so that all the bread is soaked—this ensures a moist and flavorful casserole.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to mix it up! You can swap the meats with your favorites, like crispy bacon or even chicken. For a spicy twist, add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Want it sweeter? Try cinnamon or nutmeg in the egg mixture for an added flavor.

Common Questions

What is the prep time for this casserole?

You can prepare the casserole in about 20 minutes, but it’s best to refrigerate it overnight for the best flavor infusion.

Can I use other types of bread?

Absolutely! Brioche or challah will add a delightful richness, but any white bread or even whole grain works well too.

How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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