Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, bringing together ham, turkey, cheese, and a touch of sweetness all baked into a cozy casserole. It’s like your favorite brunch treat turned into an easy, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or a family breakfast.
I love making this casserole when I want something hearty and satisfying that doesn’t require standing over the stove. The mix of salty ham and turkey with melty cheese pairs so well with the hint of sweetness from a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup on top. It’s a combination that always brings smiles around the table.
For serving, I like to add a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. This casserole is great for weekends when you can put it in the oven and then relax while it cooks. It’s become my go-to dish whenever I want a special breakfast without a lot of fuss, and everyone in my family always asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Using day-old French or brioche bread gives the casserole a light, airy texture that soaks up the egg mixture nicely. If you don’t have either, challah or white sandwich bread can work well too.
Cheese: Swiss and cheddar offer a great balance of nuttiness and sharpness. If you prefer milder cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are good swaps, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Meats: Ham, turkey, and bacon bring savory layers of flavor. You can use cooked chicken or even sausage as an alternative. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Egg Mixture: Whole milk and eggs give a rich custard base. Using half-and-half or cream will make it creamier but richer. For dairy-free, try almond or oat milk and a plant-based egg substitute—though texture will change.
How Do You Get the Bread Perfectly Soaked Without Getting Soggy?
The key is letting the casserole soak before baking so the bread absorbs the egg mixture evenly—this makes the inside nice and custardy without turning mushy.
- Use day-old bread that’s slightly dry; fresh bread can get soggy.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly and press the bread gently with a spatula to soak all pieces.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to let flavors meld and the custard set slightly.
- Bring casserole to room temperature before baking to help it cook evenly.
- Bake covered first, then uncovered to brown the top nicely without drying out the inside.
These steps help get a casserole with a golden crust and tender inside, just like a Monte Cristo sandwich in casserole form!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I use this size because it fits the ingredients perfectly and bakes evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – for whisking the egg custard, making it easy to combine all the liquids.
- Whisk – keeps the egg mixture smooth without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Foil – to cover the casserole while it soaks and during the first part of baking.
- Oven – for baking the casserole until golden and bubbly.
- Optional serving tools: spatula and serving forks for easy portioning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked sausage or bacon instead of diced bacon for a smoky, meaty flavor.
- Replace Swiss cheese with Gruyère or provolone for a different cheesy twist.
- Add sliced apples or pears with the ham for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Mix in spinach or sautéed mushrooms to add some veggie goodness and extra flavor.
Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or brioche)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup diced cooked turkey breast (or chicken)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Long Will It Take?
This casserole takes about 20 minutes to prep, plus at least 1 hour (or overnight) to soak in the fridge, and then about 50-55 minutes to bake. Planning ahead makes it easy to have a tasty breakfast or brunch ready without rushing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven and Dish Ready
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, black pepper, and ground mustard until smooth and well combined.
3. Layer the Bread and Fillings
Spread half the cubed bread evenly in the prepared dish. Then layer half of the diced ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon over the bread.
Next, add the remaining bread cubes on top. Layer with the rest of the ham, turkey, cheeses, and bacon.
4. Pour the Egg Mixture and Soak
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Press down gently with a spatula so all the bread soaks up the custard.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
5. Bake the Casserole
When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until the casserole is golden brown and the center is set.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with extra bacon and chopped parsley or chives if you like.
Serve warm with maple syrup on the side for drizzling. It’s perfect for a cozy and flavorful breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the bread completely before cubing. Using day-old bread is best for soaking up the custard without becoming soggy.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak perfectly. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers 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 Use If I Don’t Have Swiss Cheese?
Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone make great substitutes. They’ll give a different flavor but still melt nicely and complement the other ingredients.