This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delightful mix of eggs, bread, ham, and cheese that will make your mornings extra special. It’s like having a delicious sandwich in a cozy dish!
Trust me, I always feel like a chef when I serve this at brunch. It’s super easy to whip up—just combine the ingredients, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for lazy weekends! 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Bread: Traditional white bread works best for this casserole because it absorbs the egg mixture well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or a gluten-free bread can be substituted. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up!
Ham: Diced cooked ham gives that classic sandwich flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cooked mushrooms or a savory veggie sausage mix as a substitute. Tofu or tempeh can also mimic the texture without the meat!
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor. If you’re a fan of stronger cheese, Gruyère is an excellent swap. For a dairy-free option, try using nut-based cheeses or dairy-free mozzarella, adjusting for taste.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs bring richness, while whole milk adds creaminess. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can swap in low-fat milk or even almond milk. For a vegan version, mix silken tofu with a splash of plant milk, whisk until smooth, and use this mixture instead.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a touch of sweetness. In a pinch, you can leave it out or use almond extract for a different flavor twist!
How Do You Ensure the Casserole Is Perfectly Set?
Getting the right texture for your Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole lies in a few key steps. Letting it rest helps the bread soak up the egg mixture. Here’s how to achieve that creamy, soft inside with a slightly crispy top:
- After pouring the egg mixture, let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes. This soak time is essential!
- During baking, check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
- Let it cool briefly after baking. This helps it set further and makes serving easier.
Top with powdered sugar and enjoy with maple syrup or jam for a sweet and savory delight!
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 slices white bread, crusts removed and cubed
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
For the Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black or white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup or raspberry jam, for serving
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then bakes for 45-55 minutes. After that, let it cool for a bit before serving. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Assemble the Base:
Evenly spread the cubed bread in the greased baking dish. Next, sprinkle the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese on top of the bread cubes, making sure it’s well distributed.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese. Use a spatula to press down gently, making sure the bread gets soaked in the egg mixture. This soaking step is key to a deliciously creamy casserole!
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the casserole to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the bread time to absorb the egg mixture fully.
6. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. You’re looking for a set center and a golden brown top. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
7. Cool and Dust:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This cooling time helps it firm up a bit more.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dust the top of the casserole lightly with powdered sugar. For garnish, you can add fresh herbs if you’d like. Cut into squares and serve warm with maple syrup or raspberry jam on the side for a delightful breakfast feast!
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole combines all the flavors you love in a classic sandwich, but with a cozy twist—perfect for brunch or a special breakfast gathering!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bread Instead?
Yes, whole wheat bread works great in this casserole! It will add a nuttier flavor and is a healthier alternative. Make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up in the custard mixture.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you’d prefer not to use ham, you can substitute it with cooked turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the flavors accordingly!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary to keep it moist.
