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Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe

4.5 from 213 reviews

This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole combines the classic flavors of the iconic sandwich into a warm, savory, and slightly sweet baked dish. Layers of white bread, ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese are soaked in a flavorful egg and maple syrup custard, then baked to golden perfection. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and served with maple syrup, this casserole is a delightful twist perfect for brunch or a special breakfast gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 8 slices of white bread
  • 8 slices of ham
  • 8 slices of turkey
  • 8 slices of Swiss cheese

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups of milk
  • 1/4 cup of maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of pepper

Toppings

  • 1/4 cup of melted butter
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Prepare Bread Layers: Cut the 8 slices of white bread into cubes and place half of them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Layer Meats and Cheese: Layer the 8 slices of ham, followed by the 8 slices of turkey, and then the 8 slices of Swiss cheese on top of the bread cubes in the dish.
  4. Add Remaining Bread: Cover the meat and cheese layers with the remaining half of the bread cubes to create an even top layer.
  5. Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  6. Pour Custard Over Layers: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread, meat, and cheese in the baking dish, allowing it to soak throughout.
  7. Top with Butter: Drizzle 1/4 cup of melted butter evenly over the entire casserole to add richness and help develop a golden crust.
  8. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial covered bake allows the custard to set and the flavors to meld.
  9. Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the casserole is golden brown on top and fully cooked through.
  10. Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with extra maple syrup on the side for drizzling if desired.

Notes

  • You can prepare this casserole the night before by assembling it and refrigerating overnight, then baking in the morning – just add additional baking time if baking from cold.
  • Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better texture as it will absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
  • For a lower-fat option, substitute milk with skim milk and reduce the quantity of butter.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light side salad to balance the richness.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Monte Cristo, breakfast casserole, ham and turkey casserole, Swiss cheese casserole, brunch recipe, baked breakfast dish