Name: Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Introduction

The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a perfect blend of savory ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese layered with bread and soaked in a sweet and creamy egg mixture. This hearty dish brings the flavors of a classic Monte Cristo sandwich to your breakfast table in a comforting casserole form.

A close-up of a thick sandwich with three layers, starting from the bottom: a soft, porous light beige bread layer; in the middle, several thin, folded slices of pink ham; above the ham, a creamy, melted pale yellow cheese layer; topped with a golden brown, crispy bread crust sprinkled lightly with white powdered seasoning and faint green herb bits. The sandwich sits on a white plate with a smooth texture, with some green herbs scattered around it, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

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

Tips & Variations

Use day-old bread to help the casserole hold its shape better and absorb the egg mixture evenly.
Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a warm, subtle spice.
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or extra maple syrup on the side for a classic Monte Cristo touch.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes rather than the microwave.

How to Serve

A close-up of a thick sandwich square with three main layers: the top layer is a golden-brown toasted crust with a slightly crispy and bubbly texture, lightly dusted with white powder and small green herb bits; the middle layer is creamy and pale yellow melted cheese, soft and gooey, sitting above a stack of thin, folded pink ham slices; the bottom layer is a fluffy, airy bread that is light beige in color with visible soft holes. The sandwich is placed on a white plate with small green herbs scattered around, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Can I use gluten-free bread in this recipe?

Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works well for this casserole and allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy it. Just be sure to use a sturdy variety that will hold up when soaked in the egg mixture.