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Baked Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

A thick slice of monte cristo breakfast casserole layered with ham, turkey, and melted cheese, dusted with powdered sugar.

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This recipe transforms the classic Monte Cristo sandwich into an easy, make-ahead breakfast casserole, combining savory ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese with a sweet French toast custard binder.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (16 ounces) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham
  • 1 cup sliced cooked turkey breast
  • 8 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
  2. Arrange half of the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  3. Layer the ham, turkey, and shredded Swiss cheese over the bread layer.
  4. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This is your French toast custard.
  6. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and meat layers, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
  8. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  9. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve with warm maple syrup.

Notes

  • For best results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the custard better.
  • You can prepare this overnight breakfast casserole the day before serving to save time on your weekend brunch.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half for the milk in the custard.

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