The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a baked breakfast casserole inspired by the classic Monte Cristo sandwich. It uses bread, turkey, honey ham, cheese, eggs, and milk layered in a baking dish. The casserole bakes until set and golden, then gets topped with confectioners’ sugar and raspberry preserves.
This dish delivers the same sweet and savory contrast people love in a Monte Cristo sandwich, served in an easy casserole style that works well for breakfast or brunch.
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe takes soft bread, turkey, honey ham, eggs, milk, and melted cheese and turns them into a cozy breakfast egg casserole with a sweet finish.
A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar and a spoonful of raspberry preserves give it that familiar Monte Cristo touch I love.
I make this for brunch, holidays, or lazy weekends when everyone wakes up hungry at different times.
Why You’ll Love This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
I love this recipe Beacuse since it saves time and effort without losing flavor. The sweet and savory combo keeps every bite interesting.
It works well for make-ahead mornings and shared meals. The texture stays soft inside with a lightly crisp top. It feels special without extra work.
How To Prepare Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a sweet and savory breakfast casserole made with bread, turkey, ham, eggs, milk, and cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Breakfast / Brunch
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Yield: 8 servings
- Calories Per Serving: Approx. 420 kcal
- Serving Size: 1 generous slice
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
Casserole
- 1 loaf (16 ounces) French bread, cut into ¼-inch cubes, divided
- ½ pound turkey, cut into ¼-inch cubes, divided (about 1½ cups)
- ½ pound honey ham, cut into ¼-inch cubes, divided (about 1½ cups)
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
Toppings
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
- Raspberry preserves, for serving
How To Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe (Step by Step)
1. I start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. I spread half of the bread cubes across the bottom.
2. I layer half of the turkey, half of the ham, and half of both cheeses over the bread.
3. I repeat the layers with the remaining bread, turkey, ham, and cheese.
4. In a large bowl, I whisk the eggs and whole milk until smooth.
5. I pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. I press down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
6. I let the dish rest for 15 minutes on the counter. This helps the bread soak fully.
7. I bake the casserole at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes until the center sets and the top turns lightly golden.
8. I rest the casserole for 10 minutes after baking.
9. I dust the top with confectioners’ sugar and serve with raspberry preserves on the side.
My Tip: I cover the dish loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes if the top browns too fast.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 245mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Sugar: 6g
HelpFul Tips
✅ I like using day-old French bread since it absorbs the egg mixture better and keeps the casserole from turning soggy.
✅ Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before baking so the bread fully soaks up the eggs and milk.
✅ If the top starts browning too fast, I loosely cover the dish with foil to keep it from drying out.
✅ Shredding the cheese fresh helps it melt more evenly throughout the breakfast casserole.
✅ Serving it warm with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar and raspberry preserves brings out the classic Monte Cristo flavor.
Variation
1. I switch turkey with rotisserie chicken when I want a slightly richer flavor.
2. Brioche or challah bread works well if I want a softer, more custardy breakfast casserole.
3. A pinch of cinnamon in the egg mixture adds a gentle sweet note that pairs well with the ham.
4. Sharp cheddar can replace mild cheddar for a stronger cheese taste.
5. I add a thin layer of raspberry preserves inside the casserole for a sweeter bite.
Serving Suggestions
I serve this breakfast casserole with fresh berries or sliced fruit. A simple green salad balances the richness.
Coffee or tea pairs well for brunch gatherings. Extra raspberry preserves stay on the table for guests. Light dusting of confectioners’ sugar finishes the look.
Storing Tips
✔️ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔️ Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F until warm.
✔️ Freezing works best before baking.
✔️ Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Recipe Notes
✳️ Use unsweetened raspberry preserves if preferred
✳️ Let the casserole rest before slicing
✳️ Bread should absorb the egg mixture fully
✳️ Serve warm for the best texture
What Makes Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Different From Regular Breakfast Casseroles?
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole brings together sweet and savory flavors in one dish. It uses bread, eggs, cheese, and ham or turkey with a light sweetness. A touch of powdered sugar or syrup on top gives it a signature taste.
The texture stays soft inside with a lightly baked top. This balance makes it feel special for brunch. It works well for holidays or family mornings.
Can Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Be Prepared Ahead Of Time?
Yes, this casserole fits make-ahead plans very well. You can assemble everything the night before and keep it covered in the fridge.
In the morning, let it sit at room temperature briefly. Then bake it fresh for best texture. This saves time during busy mornings. The flavors stay well combined after resting overnight.
What Toppings Or Sides Pair Well With Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole?
This casserole pairs nicely with light toppings and fresh sides. Powdered sugar or warm maple syrup adds a classic touch. Fresh berries bring balance and color to the plate.
A simple green salad works for brunch spreads. Roasted potatoes add heartiness. These pairings keep the meal satisfying without feeling heavy.
FAQs about Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe
What Cheese Works Best For A Monte Cristo Casserole?
Swiss cheese stays classic for this recipe. Mild cheddar adds extra richness without overpowering the dish.
Can I Use White Bread Instead Of French Bread?
Yes, sturdy white bread works. Slightly dry bread gives better structure.
Is This Casserole Sweet Or Savory?
This dish brings both. The filling stays savory. The confectioners’ sugar and raspberry preserves add sweetness.
Can This Recipe Feed A Crowd?
Yes, this breakfast casserole recipe serves eight generous portions and works well for brunch gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe brings comfort, flavor, and ease to any breakfast table. I love how it captures the heart of a Monte Cristo sandwich without standing at the stove.
If you try this recipe, share your thoughts or ask me questions. I enjoy hearing how it turns out in your kitchen.
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- I start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. I spread half of the bread cubes across the bottom.
- I layer half of the turkey, half of the ham, and half of both cheeses over the bread.
- I repeat the layers with the remaining bread, turkey, ham, and cheese.
- In a large bowl, I whisk the eggs and whole milk until smooth.
- I pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. I press down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
- I let the dish rest for 15 minutes on the counter. This helps the bread soak fully.
- I bake the casserole at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes until the center sets and the top turns lightly golden.
- I rest the casserole for 10 minutes after baking.
- I dust the top with confectioners’ sugar and serve with raspberry preserves on the side.
Notes
Use unsweetened raspberry preserves if preferred
Let the casserole rest before slicing
Bread should absorb the egg mixture fully
Serve warm for best texture
