This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a yummy mix of fluffy eggs, cheese, and ham all baked together. It’s perfect for a cozy brunch with family and friends!
What makes it super fun is that you get all the classic flavors of a Monte Cristo sandwich in a warm, shareable dish. I love to sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for a sweet touch—it’s like breakfast magic! 🎩✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: They are essential for binding everything in the casserole. If you’re short on eggs, you can use flaxseed meal or apple sauce as a substitute. One tablespoon of flax mixed with three tablespoons of water equals one egg!
Bread: Day-old white bread is recommended for its sturdiness. You can swap for brioche or challah for a richer flavor. If gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free bread.
Cheeses: Swiss is traditional, but feel free to mix it up! Gouda or Monterey Jack work well. If you prefer non-dairy, there are great vegan cheese options available.
Ham: Use any cooked ham you like, such as turkey or leftover holiday ham. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
Bacon: You can use crumbled turkey bacon or even skip it to keep it veggie-friendly. Try adding sautéed bell peppers for an extra kick!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Soft and Moist?
The key to a soft and moist casserole lies in soaking the bread well with the egg mixture. After layering the ingredients, pour the egg mix evenly, then gently press down with a spatula to ensure that every piece of bread absorbs the liquid. Refrigerate the casserole for at least one hour or overnight for the best results—this allows the flavors to meld and moisture to soak in.
- Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate to make it easier on busy mornings.
- Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to help it cook evenly.
Enjoy making this easy and delightful Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole for your next gathering or family brunch!
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 6 cups cubed white bread (day-old is best)
- 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Maple syrup or raspberry jam, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 1 hour to let it soak in the fridge. After that, it bakes for about 1 hour. So, in total, you’re looking at about 2 hours, but much of that is hands-off chilling and baking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs. Add in the 2 cups of milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and optional 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard. Whisk everything together until it’s fully combined and a little frothy.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Start layering! Place half of the cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon evenly over the bread. Yum!
4. Repeat the Layering:
Now, repeat the layering with the remaining bread, ham, cheeses, and bacon. This helps make sure every slice has the delicious flavors!
5. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Pour your egg mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Use a spatula to press down gently—this helps the bread soak up all that yummy egg mixture.
6. Chill the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
7. Bake It Up:
When it’s time to bake, take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Then bake it covered for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. To finish it off, sprinkle with powdered sugar for that traditional touch. Serve it warm with maple syrup or raspberry jam on the side if you like that sweet twist!
Enjoy this delicious Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole that blends savory ham and cheeses with a hint of sweetness for a perfect brunch treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional, you can use brioche or challah for a sweeter flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, any gluten-free bread can work well too.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I Prep This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! This casserole is perfect for preparing the night before. Just assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Omit the ham and bacon, and instead, add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
