Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, layered with ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese baked with a sweet maple-infused custard. It’s perfect for a hearty weekend brunch or a special breakfast gathering.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of white bread
• 8 slices of ham
• 8 slices of turkey
• 8 slices of Swiss cheese
• 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
• 1/4 cup of melted butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cut the bread slices into cubes and place half of them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: Layer the ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese evenly over the bread cubes.
4. Step 4: Cover the layered meats and cheese with the remaining bread cubes.
5. Step 5: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread layers in the baking dish.
7. Step 7: Drizzle the melted butter on top of the casserole.
8. Step 8: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the casserole is golden brown and set.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat or sourdough bread for a nuttier flavor and added texture.
• Substitute turkey with cooked chicken or Canadian bacon for different protein options.
• For extra richness, add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture.
• Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and keep it refrigerated. In the morning, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold from the fridge.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the Swiss cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, use your favorite plant-based milk, and replace melted butter with a gentle oil like coconut or olive oil.

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 144 reviews

A savory and sweet Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole featuring layers of white bread, ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese soaked in a maple syrup-infused egg mixture. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting casserole is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 8 slices of white bread
• 8 slices of ham
• 8 slices of turkey
• 8 slices of Swiss cheese
• 6 large eggs

Baking Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups of milk
• 1/4 cup of maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
• 1/4 cup of melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Prepare Bread Base: Cut the white bread slices into cubes. Place half of these cubes evenly in the greased baking dish to form the first layer.
3. Layer Meats and Cheese: Over the bread cubes, layer the ham slices followed by the turkey slices and then the Swiss cheese slices, creating a flavorful, multi-layered base.
4. Add Top Bread Layer: Cover the meat and cheese layers with the remaining bread cubes, building the structure of the casserole.
5. Mix Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
6. Pour Mixture Over Layers: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, meat, and cheese in the baking dish, allowing it to soak through the bread cubes.
7. Add Butter and Cover: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole and cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
8. Bake Covered: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to set the custard and meld the flavors.
9. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and thoroughly cooked.
10. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

• Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
• You can substitute the meats with turkey bacon or roast beef for variation.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture can enhance the flavor.
• Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Monte Cristo, breakfast casserole, ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, baked breakfast, maple syrup, savory and sweet casserole