Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

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Why Make This Recipe

Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner. This dish is a delightful mix of sweet and savory, making it a unique twist on the traditional French toast. With layers of rich French bread, ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, combined with a creamy custard, this casserole is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, and it bakes beautifully in the oven, allowing you to spend more time with friends and family. If you’re looking for a dish that combines the comforting qualities of breakfast and the deliciousness of a Monte Cristo sandwich, you’ve found it here.

How to Make Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

1 loaf French bread
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 slices honey ham
8 slices turkey
8 slices Swiss cheese
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
Powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Prepare the French Bread: Cut the loaf of French bread into cubes. You want nice, even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Layer half of the bread cubes at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is well combined. This should create a creamy custard that will soak into the bread.
Layer the Meats and Cheese: Pour half of the custard mixture over the layer of bread in the baking dish. Next, add the layers of honey ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese on top of the bread. Make sure to spread the meats and cheese evenly over the surface.
Add the Remaining Bread and Custard: Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the meat and cheese. Then, pour the rest of the custard mixture over everything, ensuring that all the bread is soaked.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and melted butter. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the casserole. This will create a lovely crust while baking.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and crispy.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. Serve warm, with a dusting of powdered sugar on top and maple syrup on the side if desired.

How to Serve Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Serving Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is simple and fun. Once you’ve cut it into squares, you can plate them up individually or serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a family-style meal. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also place a small pitcher of maple syrup on the table alongside, letting everyone add as much or as little as they like. For extra flavor, consider serving with fresh fruit on the side, such as berries or sliced bananas, which will balance the richness of the casserole.

If you’re hosting a brunch, this casserole can easily be the star of the show. Pair it with coffee, tea, or mimosas for a festive and satisfying meal. Your guests will appreciate the effort, and you will enjoy the ease of preparation!

How to Store Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

If you have leftovers (which is rare with such a delicious dish), storing the casserole is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer portions to an airtight container, which works well for smaller servings.

Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also warm individual portions in the microwave for quick servings.

If you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it well, and refrigerate it. In the morning, just bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Tips to Make Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy when soaked in custard. Using day-old French bread or letting fresh bread sit out for a few hours will give you the best texture.
Customize Fillings: While ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese are classic choices, you can mix it up! Try using different meats like chicken or roast beef, or opt for a variety of cheeses such as cheddar or gouda.
Add Fruit: Spice up the casserole by adding sliced strawberries or peaches between the layers. This can enhance the flavor and add a delightful fruity contrast.
Make it Sweet: If you prefer a sweeter version, consider adding a layer of jam or preserves between the meat and cheese layers. A layer of raspberry jam pairs nicely with the salty meats.
Don’t Skip the Topping: The brown sugar and butter topping creates a beautiful crust and enhances the flavor. Take the time to mix these ingredients together for the best results.
Serve Warm with Syrup: The casserole is at its best when served warm, so make sure to reheat it properly if you stored any leftovers.

Variation

There are endless variations to the Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the meats entirely and use sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Add a layer of your favorite cheese for flavor.
Sweet Monte Cristo: Use brioche or challah bread and add layers of fruit, such as berries or sliced apples, along with cream cheese for a sweet take on this dish. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also elevate this version.
Savory Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs into the custard mixture or sprinkle on top before baking. Basil or thyme can add a unique twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it in the morning when you are ready to serve.

Q: What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
A: If you don’t have Swiss cheese, you can use any melting cheese like cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella. Just choose a cheese that you enjoy!

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready to be taken out of the oven.

Q: Can leftovers be frozen?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it cools completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Q: Can I add more spices to the custard?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to spice up the custard with ground cinnamon or nutmeg. This will add warmth and flavor that complements the bread and cheese nicely.

Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is an excellent dish for sharing with loved ones, bringing a touch of comfort and joy to any table. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying experience that everyone will enjoy. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a slice of this delightful breakfast treat!