Monte Cristo Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Monte Cristo Casserole takes all the savory, sweet, and cheesy elements of the classic Monte Cristo sandwich and turns them into a comforting baked dish. Layers of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese are nestled between slices of bread soaked in an egg custard, then baked to golden perfection. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of raspberry jam, this casserole is perfect for brunch, holidays, or any time you crave a satisfying twist on a diner favorite.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

eggsmilkheavy creamvanilla extractsaltwhite sandwich breadcooked turkey breastcooked hamSwiss cheesepowdered sugarraspberry jam (for serving)butter (for greasing)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to form a custard.

Layer half of the bread slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Top the bread with half of the turkey, half of the ham, and half of the Swiss cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, meats, and cheese.

Pour the custard evenly over the entire casserole, pressing gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.

Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.

Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes.

Dust with powdered sugar and serve with raspberry jam on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8-10 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesResting time: 30 minutes to overnightBaking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes to overnight

Variations

Use brioche or challah bread for a richer texture.

Swap out Swiss for Gruyère or provolone for a different cheese profile.

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm spice note.

Serve with maple syrup instead of jam for a breakfast-style variation.

Add a thin layer of Dijon mustard between the layers for a tangy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Monte Cristo Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for overnight prep. Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next morning.

Is this dish sweet or savory?

It’s both—savory from the meats and cheese, and slightly sweet from the powdered sugar and jam.

Do I have to use raspberry jam?

No, you can use strawberry, blackberry, or any jam you prefer—or skip it for a strictly savory option.

Can I use deli meat?

Absolutely, just make sure it’s sliced thick enough to hold its texture during baking.

Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, gluten-free sandwich bread works well in this recipe.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use all milk, but the casserole may be slightly less rich.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, assemble it in an 8×8-inch dish and reduce baking time slightly.

Why is powdered sugar used?

It mimics the traditional Monte Cristo sandwich and balances the savory components with a sweet touch.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, especially when served with jam—kids love the combination of sweet and savory.

Can I add eggs or spinach?

While not traditional, adding scrambled eggs or spinach between layers can make it more of a breakfast casserole.

Conclusion

Monte Cristo Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, all-in-one dish that transforms a beloved sandwich into a hearty and comforting bake. Ideal for brunches, holiday mornings, or a unique weeknight dinner, it’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy layers of flavor in every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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