Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a special holiday gathering. Combining the classic Monte Cristo sandwich concept with the ease of a casserole, this recipe makes serving a crowd much simpler. You get the comforting taste of eggy French toast, the richness of Swiss cheese, and the savory satisfaction of ham and turkey—all in one easy-to-make dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread, making it a practical and tasty choice for any kitchen.

Gather your family or friends around the table with this unique twist on a traditional breakfast. The beauty of this casserole is not just in its flavors, but also in its warmth and heartiness. It’s ideal for those lazy weekend mornings when you want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The golden-brown top and melty cheese will surely impress everyone.

How to Make Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup honey ham, diced
• 1 cup turkey, diced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
• Maple syrup for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the casserole will bake evenly. While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack open the 6 large eggs and whisk them together. Then add in the 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. This rich custard mixture will soak into the bread and create a creamy texture.

3. Layer the Ingredients: Now it’s time to build your casserole. Start by layering half of the cubed French bread in the greased baking dish. Ensure the bread cubes cover the bottom evenly. Next, sprinkle half of the diced ham, turkey, and shredded Swiss cheese over the bread layer.

4. Add Custard: Pour half of the custard mixture over the layered ingredients. This will start to moisten the bread and meld the flavors together. Don’t be shy; make sure to cover everything.

5. Repeat the Layers: For the second layer, repeat by adding the remaining half of the cubed bread, followed by the rest of the ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese. Finally, pour the remainder of the custard mixture over the top, ensuring everything is soaked.

6. Add the Brown Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the 1/4 cup of brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This will create a sweet topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

7. Bake: It’s time to bake! Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You want it to be golden brown on top, and the custard should be set. You can check by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.

8. Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for a touch of sweetness, and serve it warm. Optionally, provide maple syrup on the side for those who like an extra drizzle.

How to Serve Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Monty Cristo French Toast Casserole is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve it warm directly from the oven or let it cool for a few minutes to make slicing easier. Cut the casserole into squares and place them on plates. The powdered sugar creates a pretty presentation, and a drizzle of maple syrup can make it even more delightful. It pairs well with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, which can add a refreshing touch next to the dish. A side of crispy bacon or sausage links can complement the savory components of the casserole beautifully.

If you want to make a brunch table extra special, include some coffee or fresh orange juice. The rich flavors of the casserole balance well with a hot drink, while juice adds a bright, fruity contrast.

How to Store Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish ahead of time, storing it properly can help maintain its deliciousness. To store Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole:

1. Cool Completely: Make sure the casserole is completely cooled before storing. This helps to avoid condensation, which can make the bread soggy.

2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the cooled casserole in an airtight container. If you don’t have one large enough, you can cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

3. Refrigerate: Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

4. Reheat When Ready: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat slices in the microwave for a quicker option, though the oven will give you a better texture.

Tips to Make Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

• Use Day-Old Bread: For the best results, use day-old French bread. It absorbs the custard better and helps prevent sogginess. If you only have fresh bread, you can toast the cubes lightly in the oven before layering them in the casserole.

• Customize the Meats: Feel free to switch up the meats according to your preference. You can mix in cooked bacon or ham, pepperoni, or even a veggie option with spinach and mushrooms.

• Add Herbs: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the custard mixture or layering them in between. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste and add brightness to the casserole.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before. After layering the ingredients, cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge overnight. Bake it in the morning for an effortless brunch option.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Swiss cheese gives that classic flavor profile, experimenting with Gruyere or even cheddar can add a unique twist to your casserole.

Variation

One of the best things about Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is its adaptability. You can switch up ingredients to create variations:

1. Sweet and Savory: For a delightful mix of flavors, consider adding sliced strawberries or bananas into the layers. This can balance the savory elements with a sweet touch.

2. French Toast Variation: For a sweeter twist, use challah or brioche bread and decrease the quantity of savory meat. This will create a more dessert-like experience. Drizzling with chocolate syrup instead of maple syrup could also be an indulgent alternative.

3. Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version, replace the meats with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, along with plenty of cheese.

4. Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

FAQs

Can I freeze Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, prepare the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake according to the instructions.

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While French bread is traditional, you can use brioche, challah, or any type of bread you prefer. The key is to use a bread that will soak up the custard well without becoming too soggy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread. Make sure to check that all your ingredients, including the ham and cheese, are gluten-free as well.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

To make it ahead, simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This way, the bread has more time to soak up the custard, enhancing the flavors.

What kind of toppings work best with this casserole?

Some popular toppings include powdered sugar for sweetness, maple syrup for richness, and fresh fruit like berries for freshness. You can also offer whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a fun dessert twist!

With these simple steps and tips, making Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole can become a new family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply enjoying it on a cozy weekend morning, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious flavors of this delightful casserole!

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