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Delicious Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole with ham, turkey, cheese, and bread layers.

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

A cozy and delicious breakfast casserole that captures the sweet and savory essence of a Monte Cristo sandwich, perfect for family brunches and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 8-10 slices slices of brioche, challah, or Texas toast, cut into cubes Thick bread holds up well.
  • 8 ounces sliced ham
  • 6-8 ounces sliced turkey
  • 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese Swiss or a Swiss blend works best.
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk is richest, 2% works too.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1-2 tablespoons melted butter Optional, for drizzling before baking.
Sweet Finish
  • to taste powdered sugar for dusting Add just before serving.
  • 1 spoon jam Raspberry is classic.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 baking dish.
  2. Spread half the bread cubes in the dish. Then layer on half the ham, half the turkey, and half the cheese.
  3. Repeat with the remaining bread, meat, and cheese, ensuring you end with cheese on top.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until combined.
  5. Pour the egg mixture slowly over the casserole, pressing down gently with a spoon to help soak the top layers.
  6. If desired, drizzle melted butter over the top.
Baking
  1. Bake for about 35 to 45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden.
  2. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  3. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it hold together and avoid burning your mouth.

Notes

Make ahead by assembling the night before and refrigerating. Add powdered sugar just before serving to maintain its appearance. Can be frozen both baked and unbaked for convenience.