Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Sweet, Savory & Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delicious!

If you’re searching for the ideal dish to elevate your breakfast or brunch menu, look no further than the Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole. This exquisite casserole combines the delightful flavors of a classic Monte Cristo sandwich—hams, cheese, and syrupy sweetness—into a single dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Let’s dive into what makes this breakfast treat so irresistible!

Ingredients

For the Casserole

  • 6-8 slices of bread (Texas toast or brioche work best)
  • 1 cup of cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup of turkey or chicken, diced
  • 1 cup of Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Assemble the Casserole

  • Cut the slices of bread into quarters and layer them at the bottom of the baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the diced ham, turkey, and shredded cheese evenly over the bread.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring every piece of bread is soaked well.

3. Chill (Optional)

For an enhanced flavor, cover the dish and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a satisfying texture.

4. Bake

Once you’re ready to cook, remove the casserole from the fridge (if chilled), and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg is set.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Dust generously with powdered sugar, and serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Why You’ll Love It

The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors. The richness of the eggs and cheese pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the ham and turkey, while the hint of sweetness from the maple syrup elevates it to dessert-like indulgence.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its adaptability! Feel free to get creative—swap out the meats for your favorites, or use different types of cheese. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the meats altogether and adding in fresh vegetables.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This breakfast casserole isn’t reserved for just special occasions. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or a cozy family breakfast. It’s a crowd-pleaser that not only tastes fantastic but also looks impressive when served.

Celebrate your next meal with the Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole; it’s a unique twist on traditional breakfast that will leave your guests asking for seconds!

This brunch dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether enjoyed leisurely on a Sunday morning with family or prepared in advance for a festive feast, the Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is bound to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and treat your taste buds to this sweet, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious delight!