The Monte Cristo sandwich is a legendary diner classic—a sweet and savory hybrid of French toast and a ham and cheese sandwich. This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole with Ham and Cheese takes that iconic flavor profile and reimagines it as a family style bake. It is the perfect brunch dish for those who can never decide between sweet pancakes or a savory omelet. With this casserole, you get the best of both worlds: salty ham, melting Swiss cheese, and custard soaked bread, all finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of raspberry jam.
This recipe is designed to be effortless but impressive. Layering the ingredients in a casserole dish transforms the labor intensive process of frying individual sandwiches into a simple “bake and serve” meal. It is particularly excellent for holidays or lazy weekends when you want to feed a crowd without standing over a griddle. The result is a golden, puffy, sweet, and savory delight that feels like a special occasion on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Sweet & Savory Balance
This is the defining feature of a Monte Cristo. The savoriness of the smoked ham and the nuttiness of the Swiss cheese are perfectly offset by the sweetness of the egg custard and the traditional raspberry preserve topping. It hits every taste bud, creating a complex and satisfying flavor experience.
Make Ahead Convenience
Like many great stratas, this casserole benefits from sitting in the fridge overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, ensuring the final dish is moist and fluffy rather than dry. If you are a fan of prepping breakfast the night before, you should also check out this Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe for Mom for another reliable option.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche, cubed (day-old)
- 1 lb deli ham, chopped or sliced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (for serving)
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Arrange half the bread cubes in the bottom.
- Top with ham and 1 cup of Swiss cheese. Add remaining bread and remaining cheese.
- Whisk eggs, milk, mustard, and nutmeg together. Pour over the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or overnight) to soak.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with raspberry jam.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
You need a sturdy bread like French bread, brioche, or challah. Avoid thin sandwich bread. The classic proteins are deli ham and sometimes turkey. Swiss cheese or Gruyere is non negotiable for that authentic Monte Cristo taste. The custard is made from eggs, milk, a touch of Dijon mustard (for depth), and vanilla. Powdered sugar and raspberry jam are essential for serving.
Smart Substitutions
If you aren’t a fan of Swiss cheese, mild Provolone or white cheddar can work, though the flavor will change. You can use croissants instead of bread for an even flakier, richer texture. If raspberry jam isn’t your favorite, strawberry preserves or even maple syrup are acceptable alternatives, though raspberry is traditional for its tartness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Cut your bread into 1 inch cubes or slices. Slice the ham into strips or squares and shred the cheese if you bought a block (which melts better). Whisk the eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, nutmeg, and a small spoonful of Dijon mustard in a bowl.
Cooking Phase
Arrange half of the bread cubes in the bottom of the dish. Layer the ham and half of the cheese over the bread. Top with the remaining bread and the rest of the cheese. Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the entire casserole, pressing down gently to ensure the bread soaks up the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a knife inserted comes out clean).
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The Dijon mustard in the custard might sound odd for a sweetish dish, but don’t skip it. It bridges the gap between the savory ham and the sweet toppings, providing a background depth that makes the dish taste professional. Also, covering the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking keeps the top from burning before the inside is cooked; remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to crisp it up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using fresh, soft bread can lead to a soggy casserole. It is best to use day old bread or toast the cubes in the oven for 10 minutes before assembling. This ensures the bread maintains some texture after soaking up the custard.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Dust the warm casserole generously with powdered sugar right before serving. It looks like snow and adds that signature sweetness. Serve with a small bowl of warm raspberry jam on the side for guests to dollop on top.
Pairing Suggestions
Since this dish is quite rich and filling, a simple side of fresh fruit or a citrus salad is the best accompaniment. Coffee or orange juice cuts through the richness perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I use turkey ham?
Yes, turkey ham or sliced deli turkey works great. A traditional Monte Cristo often has both ham and turkey.
Q2? Why is my casserole soggy?
Usually, this is because the bread was too soft or the ratio of milk to eggs was too high. Make sure to use stale or toasted bread cubes.
Q3? Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cut into squares, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 210mg |
| Sodium | 900mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 24g |
Conclusion
The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole with Ham and Cheese is a sophisticated yet simple way to do brunch. It brings the beloved flavors of a classic sandwich to a format that is easy to share, making it a guaranteed hit for any morning gathering.
