If you love the classic sandwich with layers of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and a dusting of powdered sugar, this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole transforms that iconic flavor into a warm, comforting baked dish. With layers of soft bread soaked in a savory egg custard and stacked with deli meats and melty cheese, this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole delivers both sweet and savory goodness in every bite. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make it step by step, plus tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it unforgettable.
A Cozy Twist on a Classic Monte Cristo
Growing up, Monte Cristo sandwiches always felt special. Grandma would lightly toast them, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top, and serve them with a little raspberry jam on the side. That sweet-and-savory combination felt magical.
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole brings those same flavors into a shareable, oven-baked version that feeds a crowd. Instead of frying individual sandwiches, we layer bread, ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese in a baking dish, then pour a rich egg mixture over everything. As it bakes, the bread absorbs the custard, the cheese melts into creamy layers, and the top turns golden brown.
The result? A dish that tastes indulgent but feels comforting and homey. If you enjoy hearty breakfast bakes like our Mexican Breakfast Casserole, this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole will quickly become another family favorite.
It’s perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or lazy Sunday mornings.
Ingredients for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
What You’ll Need
- 12 slices white bread, crusts removed
- 8 ounces deli ham, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces deli turkey, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Raspberry jam for serving (optional)
The combination of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese creates that classic Monte Cristo flavor. Dijon mustard adds subtle tang, while cayenne gives just a gentle warmth.
For extra richness, swap white bread with brioche or challah. If you love soft, slightly sweet breads like in our Pan de Elote, brioche works beautifully here.
How to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
Step 2: First Bread Layer
Lay 6 slices of bread on the bottom of the dish in a single layer.
Step 3: Add Meats & Cheese
Layer half of the ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese evenly over the bread.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Place remaining bread slices on top, then layer the remaining ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
Step 5: Prepare Egg Mixture
Whisk eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne until smooth.
Step 6: Soak the Layers
Pour egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Press gently so bread absorbs liquid.
Step 7: Rest
Cover with foil and let sit for 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for best results.
Step 8: Bake
Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15–20 more minutes until golden and set.
Step 9: Finish & Serve
Cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with raspberry jam.
If you love layered comfort dishes like our Crockpot Chicken Legs, this casserole delivers that same satisfying bite in breakfast form.
Serving, Variations & Storage
How to Serve Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Serve warm with:
- Raspberry jam
- Fresh berries
- Maple syrup drizzle
- Light green salad for brunch balance
The powdered sugar adds that authentic Monte Cristo touch, while the jam provides the sweet contrast.
Flavor Variations
- Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
- Swap Swiss for Gruyère for deeper flavor.
- Add a light maple drizzle before serving.
- Use croissants instead of bread for extra indulgence.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
- Reheat in oven at 325°F until warmed through.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
FAQs About Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
What is a Monte Cristo made of?
A traditional Monte Cristo sandwich contains ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese between slices of bread, often dipped in egg batter and fried.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Why dust powdered sugar on top?
Powdered sugar adds the signature sweet contrast that makes Monte Cristo unique.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone all work well.
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole – Sweet & Savory Brunch Favorite
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Sweet and savory Monte Cristo breakfast casserole layered with ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and baked custard bread.
Ingredients
12 slices white bread
8 oz deli ham
8 oz deli turkey
8 oz Swiss cheese
6 eggs
2 cups milk
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne
2 tbsp melted butter
Powdered sugar
Raspberry jam (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease baking dish.
2. Layer 6 slices bread.
3. Add half meats and cheese.
4. Repeat layers.
5. Whisk eggs, milk, mustard, and seasonings.
6. Pour mixture over layers.
7. Rest 30 minutes or overnight.
8. Bake covered 30 minutes.
9. Bake uncovered 15-20 minutes.
10. Dust with powdered sugar and serve.
Notes
Best when prepared overnight.
Use brioche for richer flavor.
Serve with raspberry jam.