Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, bringing together layers of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and a hint of sweetness from a touch of powdered sugar or jam. It has that perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, all baked into a warm, comforting casserole that’s easy to serve to a crowd. The custardy eggs soak everything together, making each bite juicy and satisfying.
I love making this casserole for a weekend brunch when friends or family are coming over because it feels special without much fuss. One of my favorite things is adding a little bit of Dijon mustard into the egg mixture—it gives it a subtle tang that really wakes up the flavors. Plus, I always make sure to let it sit for a few minutes after baking so it sets perfectly before slicing.
This dish is great paired with a simple green salad or fresh fruit on the side. Sometimes I drizzle a little extra powdered sugar or serve with raspberry jam for dipping, which everyone seems to enjoy. It’s a fun way to enjoy all the great parts of a Monte Cristo sandwich in one easy, bake-and-serve meal that feels like a cozy morning treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah work best for their soft, buttery texture that soaks up the egg mixture without getting mushy. If you don’t have these, try French bread or a sturdy white bread.
Ham and Turkey: These give the casserole its classic Monte Cristo flavor. Leftover cooked meats or even chicken breast can work if turkey isn’t available.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss melts well and adds a mild nuttiness. Gruyère or mozzarella are great substitutes. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt smoothly.
Bacon: Adds crunch and smoky flavor on top. You can skip it for less salt or swap with cooked sausage pieces if you prefer.
Dijon Mustard: This small addition in the egg mixture helps boost flavor with a subtle tang. It’s optional but worth trying for depth.
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole Soaks Up the Eggs Without Getting Soggy?
The secret is the type of bread and how you layer and press it down.
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread so it absorbs custard without turning mushy.
- Press down gently after pouring egg mix to help bread soak evenly.
- Give the casserole time to rest for 10 minutes after baking; this lets the egg set fully and makes slicing easier.
- Baking uncovered helps the top get golden and slightly crispy, balancing the soft inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – It’s the perfect size to hold all the layers and makes baking easy.
- Whisk – For mixing the egg custard smoothly and evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – To beat the eggs and combine the milk, spices, and mustard.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping bread, meats, and garnishes.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – To help layer ingredients and press the bread down.
- Oven – To bake the casserole until bubbly and golden.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – To cover if you want to prevent over-browning while baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheesy flavor or a sharper taste.
- Use cooked bacon, sausage, or ham—try turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor.
- Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the egg custard for a hint of sweetness—great if serving with maple syrup.
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 4 cups cubed brioche or challah bread (about 6-7 slices)
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked turkey or leftover roast turkey
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Maple syrup or raspberry jam (for serving)
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-55 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll want to let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. In total, plan for about 1 hour from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Dish and Egg Mixture
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a deep pie dish so nothing sticks. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard until smooth and fully combined.
2. Layer the Bread and Meats
Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of your prepared dish. Next, layer half of the diced ham, turkey, and shredded Swiss cheese on top of the bread.
3. Add Second Layer and Pour Egg Mixture
Place the remaining bread cubes evenly over the first layer, followed by the rest of the ham, turkey, and cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything, then gently press down so the bread absorbs the custard well.
4. Add Bacon and Bake
Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon on top. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top turns a lovely golden color. You can check doneness by inserting a knife in the center — it should come out clean.
5. Cool, Garnish, and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes to help it set. Dust the top with powdered sugar and serve alongside maple syrup or raspberry jam for a sweet touch. If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for color and a little extra flavor.
Enjoy this warm and comforting Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole—it’s a wonderful mix of savory meats, creamy cheese, and just a hint of sweetness in every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure the bread is fully thawed and slightly dried out before using. Day-old or lightly stale bread works best to soak up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Can I Prepare the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
Gruyère, mozzarella, or even mild cheddar cheese can be great substitutes depending on your taste preference. Just choose a cheese that melts well for that gooey, creamy texture.