Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Introduction
The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a savory and satisfying twist on the classic sandwich. Packed with ham, Swiss cheese, and rich custard-soaked bread, it’s perfect for a cozy brunch or weekend breakfast gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 whole large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups fat free half & half
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups stale cubed French bread
- 9 ounces ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly coat an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half & half, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and salt and pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Stir in the cubed French bread until it’s evenly coated with the egg mixture.
- Step 4: Fold in the ham and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese gently.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 6: Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with raspberry preserves on the side for a touch of sweetness.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread to help it absorb the custard mixture without becoming mushy.
- Swap ham for turkey or cooked bacon for a different flavor profile.
- For extra richness, try using whole milk or cream instead of fat free half & half.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle spicy kick.
- Top with powdered sugar before serving for a traditional Monte Cristo touch.
Storage
Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid freezing as the bread texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What can I serve with Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or a side of raspberry preserves to balance the savory flavors.
PrintMonte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole combines savory ham, Swiss cheese, and cubed French bread soaked in a flavorful custard of eggs, half & half, Dijon mustard, and a touch of nutmeg. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy, hearty breakfast or brunch dish perfect for sharing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 Whole Large Eggs
- 1 1/2 Cups Fat Free Half & Half
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard
- Pinch of Nutmeg
- Salt & Pepper to Taste
- 6 Cups Stale Cubed French Bread
- 9 Ounces Ham, diced
- 1 1/2 Cups Shredded Swiss Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 whole eggs, 1 1/2 cups fat free half & half, 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth and well combined.
- Add Bread: Stir in the 6 cups of stale, cubed French bread pieces, ensuring each cube is coated evenly with the custard mixture. This allows the bread to soak up flavors and soften while baking.
- Incorporate Ham and Cheese: Gently fold in the 9 ounces of diced ham and 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese into the bread mixture, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the edges are nicely browned, the cheese has melted, and the casserole is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with a side of raspberry preserves for a delightful sweet contrast.
Notes
- Using stale bread is important as it soaks up the custard better without becoming soggy.
- You can substitute fat free half & half with whole milk or cream for a richer casserole.
- Feel free to swap ham for turkey or cooked bacon if preferred.
- The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, but it can be adjusted to taste or omitted if desired.
- Serving with raspberry preserves is traditional and adds a lovely sweet balance.
Keywords: Monte Cristo, Breakfast Casserole, Ham and Cheese Casserole, Brunch Recipe, French Bread Casserole
