This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a tasty mix of eggs, ham, and cheese, all baked together in a warm, fluffy dish. It’s perfect for brunch or any special morning!
Plus, it’s super easy to make. I love how it comes together in a snap, and everyone always wants seconds. Who can resist a dish that’s both sweet and savory? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Sandwich Bread: This recipe uses white sandwich bread for its soft texture. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, whole wheat or sourdough bread works well too. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the egg mixture.
Eggs: Eggs are the base for this casserole. For a lighter option, you can replace some whole eggs with egg whites. Just keep in mind the flavor might be a bit different.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free or on a dietary restriction, almond milk or oat milk can be great substitutes. Just avoid flavored varieties to keep the taste neutral.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang to the dish. If you don’t have Dijon on hand, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, though it’s milder. For a gourmet touch, try using spicy brown mustard.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is key for flavor, but feel free to swap it out for Gruyère or even provolone for a different taste. Mix in a bit of mozzarella for extra gooiness, if you like!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Comes Out Perfectly Set?
Getting the right texture is crucial for a breakfast casserole. Here are some tips to ensure it sets perfectly:
- Don’t rush soaking the bread: After pouring the egg mixture over the bread, gently press it down with a spatula. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid before baking.
- Check for doneness: Bake until the center is firm and not wobbly. You can insert a knife in the middle; it should come out clean.
- Cool slightly: Allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up even more, making it easier to cut into squares.
With these tips and ingredient choices, you’ll create an amazing Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole that everyone will love! Enjoy it warm with some syrup or preserves for an extra sweet touch!
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 8 slices white sandwich bread, cubed (about 6 cups)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup or raspberry preserves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45 to 55 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes before you can enjoy this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, get your baking dish ready by greasing a 9×13 inch pan. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Next, take your white sandwich bread and cut it into cubes that are about 1 inch big. Spread these bread cubes evenly in the greased baking dish. It’s okay if they overlap a little, just do your best to cover the bottom.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until you have a nice, smooth mixture. This creamy blend will soak into the bread later and make it super tasty!
4. Add the Ham:
Now, take your diced cooked ham and sprinkle it evenly over the bread cubes. This is where the heartiness of the casserole starts to shine!
5. Layer the Cheeses:
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses evenly over the ham and bread. The combination of these cheeses will melt perfectly, adding delicious flavour.
6. Combine It All:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything in the baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to lightly press down on the bread a bit, making sure it absorbs that yummy egg mix.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Time to bake! Place the dish in the oven and let it bake uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to cut into squares.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Cut the casserole into squares and serve it warm. Add a side of maple syrup or raspberry preserves for that classic Monte Cristo touch!
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, just like the recipe describes, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge. In the morning, simply remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven, then bake as directed. You might need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you’d like to make a different version, turkey, cooked bacon, or even veggies like sautéed mushrooms and spinach can be used instead of ham. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to your liking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems dry, you can add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Definitely! While Swiss is traditional, you could try Gruyère or provolone for a different flavor. Mixing in mozzarella is also a tasty way to add extra creaminess. Feel free to get creative with the cheese choices!
