Save My friend Sarah hosted what she called a "breakfast for dinner" party last winter, and this Monte Cristo casserole was the star of the show. The way the sweet and savory elements played together had everyone going back for seconds, and someone actually asked if she'd been working on it for days. She laughed and admitted it came together in minutes, which made me grab my phone and demand the recipe right there at the table.
I made this for my in laws last Easter, and my father in law who usually sticks to his usual eggs and toast went back for a third helping. Watching him hesitantly try something new and then immediately become a convert was the best validation I could have asked for. Now whenever we host brunch someone specifically requests "that Monte Cristo thing."
Ingredients
- French bread cubes: Using a slightly stale loaf works even better because it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming mushy in the oven
- Whole eggs: Room temperature eggs whisk into a smoother custard that coats every bread cube more evenly
- Whole milk: The richness creates that French toast base that makes this feel like a special occasion breakfast
- Vanilla extract: Dont skip this even though it seems unusual for a savory dish it provides that classic Monte Cristo sweetness
- Ground cinnamon: Just a teaspoon warms up the whole dish and bridges the gap between breakfast and lunch flavors
- Swiss cheese: The mild nuttiness pairs perfectly with ham and turkey without overpowering the other ingredients
- Cooked ham: Diced into bite sized pieces so every forkful gets some meaty goodness
- Cooked turkey: Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey or deli meat whichever you have on hand works beautifully
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 350°F and grease your baking dish with butter or cooking spray
- Build the base:
- Toss bread cubes with chopped ham and turkey then spread everything evenly in your prepared dish
- Whisk the custard:
- Beat eggs with milk vanilla cinnamon and salt until completely smooth and no streaks remain
- Pour and press:
- Evenly distribute the egg mixture over the bread pressing down gently to help every cube absorb the liquid
- Add the cheese:
- Sprinkle Swiss cheese across the top so it melts into a golden crust while baking
- Let it rest:
- Cover with foil and let sit for 15 minutes so the bread can soak up all that flavorful custard
- Bake covered:
- Keep the foil on for 30 minutes to steam everything through gently
- Get golden:
- Remove foil and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is browned and the center is set
- Finish sweet:
- Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve with warm maple syrup for drizzling
Save This recipe saved me when I agreed last minute to host book club brunch. I threw it together the night before popped it in the oven the next morning and served it with fresh berries while still in my pajamas. Everyone thought I'd been planning for days which is exactly the kind of kitchen win I live for.
Make It Ahead
Assemble everything the night before cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning let it sit on the counter for 30 minutes while the oven preheats then bake as directed. The bread absorbs even more flavor this way.
Cheese Swaps
Sometimes I use half Swiss and half Gruyère for extra depth or throw in some sharp cheddar if I want more bite. Just keep the total amount the same and you really cannot go wrong.
Serving Ideas
A simple fruit salad on the side cuts through the richness beautifully. I also like setting out extra maple syrup and a small bowl of powdered sugar so guests can customize their own portions.
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries add bright color and acidity
- Thick cut bacon on the side turns this into a complete meat lovers breakfast
- Mimosa ingredients on the counter make it an instant celebration
Save There is something magical about a breakfast that feels indulgent but comes together with such ease. Hope this becomes a go to for your family gatherings.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the entire bake the night before. Cover it and refrigerate, then proceed with baking instructions in the morning.
- → What cheese alternatives can I use?
For extra flavor, consider substituting Gruyère or a sharp Cheddar for some of the Swiss cheese. They melt beautifully and add a rich taste.
- → Are there other meat options?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the ham or turkey for cooked bacon or breakfast sausage to suit your preference and add different savory notes.
- → How should this dish be served?
Serve it warm, generously dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup. These toppings complete the classic sweet and savory Monte Cristo experience.
- → Can I add fresh fruit for serving?
Yes, for a burst of color and fresh flavor, you can add fresh berries or sliced fruit on top just before serving, complementing the richness of the bake.