Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Indulge in the perfect harmony of sweet and savory with this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole. This delightful brunch dish features layers of cinnamon-vanilla soaked French bread, savory ham and turkey, and melty Swiss cheese. It is baked until golden and finished with a classic dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for that iconic Monte Cristo flavor.

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Whether you are hosting a festive breakfast or simply looking for a hearty weekend meal, this bake delivers on both texture and taste. The bread cubes absorb a rich custard, resulting in a fluffy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy, cheese-topped exterior.

Ingredients

• 8 cups (about 1 loaf) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup cooked ham, chopped
• 1 cup cooked turkey or chicken, chopped
• Powdered sugar, for serving
• Maple syrup, for serving

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Step 2

In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with chopped ham and turkey (or chicken). Spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 4

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and meat mixture, pressing gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.

Step 5

Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak.

Step 7

Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 8

Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 9

Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To make your morning even easier, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit on the counter briefly while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. Allowing the bread to soak for a longer period ensures a very custardy and rich texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile. For extra flavor depth, you can substitute Gruyère or Cheddar for some of the Swiss cheese. If you prefer different meats, feel free to substitute cooked bacon or sausage for the ham or turkey to suit your family's preferences.

Serviervorschläge

For a beautiful presentation and a burst of fresh flavor, add fresh berries or sliced fruit on top of the casserole just before serving. The tartness of the fruit balances the rich cheese and savory meats perfectly. Always serve with extra maple syrup on the side for those who enjoy a sweeter brunch.

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Enjoy this warm and comforting Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole with your loved ones. It is a foolproof way to bring a sophisticated restaurant favorite into your own kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Handle kitchen cleanup easily by disposing of food scraps, packaging, and cooking waste without leaks or odors.

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Answers to Recipe Questions

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole the night before. Cover it and refrigerate, then bake as directed in the morning.

→ What kind of bread works best for this bake?

French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes, is ideal as it soaks up the egg mixture beautifully, creating a rich and tender texture.

→ Are there any substitutions for the ham or turkey?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute other cooked meats like bacon or sausage for the ham or turkey to customize the savory flavors.

→ What cheese alternatives can I use?

While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can enhance the flavor by substituting some or all of it with Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar for a different profile.

→ How should I serve this dish?

Serve this Monte Cristo bake warm, fresh from the oven, with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for that signature sweet and savory finish.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

While not traditional for a Monte Cristo, you could fold in some sautéed onions or bell peppers with the meat for added flavor and texture, though it might alter the classic profile.