Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is a delightful combination of savory and sweet that brings a twist to traditional breakfast meals. If you’re looking for a unique dish to serve during brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is perfect. It combines the flavors and textures of a Monte Cristo sandwich and French toast, all in one delicious casserole. With its layers of French bread, ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, this dish is hearty and satisfying. Plus, it can easily feed a crowd!

One of the great things about this casserole is that it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Instead of standing at the stove making individual servings of French toast, you can prep everything the night before and bake it in the morning. This makes it a fantastic choice for holidays, family gatherings, or leisurely weekends.

Let’s explore how to make this delicious Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole that will impress everyone at your table.

How to Make Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Making Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is simple and straightforward. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull this off. Just follow these easy steps and have a delicious dish ready to serve.

Ingredients

To get started, you will need 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

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the French bread: Take the loaf of French bread and cut it into cubes. This helps it soak up the custard mixture better. Layer half of the bread cubes in the bottom of your greased baking dish.

3. Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. Pour half of this mixture over the layered bread cubes in the baking dish.

4. Add the meat and cheese: Now it’s time to add layers of flavor. Place the honey ham slices evenly over the bread, followed by the turkey slices, and then add a layer of Swiss cheese on top.

5. Layer the bread again: Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the ham, turkey, and cheese. Pour the rest of the custard mixture over this second layer of bread, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

6. Prepare the topping: In another bowl, mix the brown sugar and melted butter together until combined. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously sweet crust when baked.

7. Bake the casserole: Cover your dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes. This will allow the casserole to set up and absorb all those flavors.

8. Finish baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be golden brown and for the center to be set.

9. Cool and serve: Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to cut and serve. You can dust with powdered sugar if you like, adding a lovely touch to the presentation.

How to Serve Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

Serving this casserole is simple and can be adapted to your preferences. Once it has cooled slightly, cut it into squares and serve it warm.

You can plate it with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a sweet finish. It pairs wonderfully with maple syrup, which you can offer on the side. For a complete meal, serve with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas, and perhaps a side of crispy bacon or sausage.

Coffee or hot chocolate also complements this dish very well for breakfast or brunch. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or fruit platter to balance out the rich flavors of the casserole.

How to Store Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

If you have leftovers (which is not always the case!), you can store them easily. Let the casserole cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Store it in the refrigerator where it will last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This way, you have a special breakfast or brunch dish ready to go whenever you need!

Tips to Make Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole

• Use Day-Old Bread: For the best results, use slightly stale or day-old French bread. This bread will absorb the custard better, preventing sogginess.

• Layer More Ingredients: If you love cheese or meat, feel free to add more layers of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese. The more, the merrier!

• Make It Your Own: Don’t hesitate to add different types of cheese or meats according to your taste. Substitute ham with prosciutto or add sliced tomatoes for a fresh twist.

• Add Spices: Consider adding a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon to the custard mix for additional flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the powdered sugar and maple syrup.

• Prepare Ahead: For convenience, you can assemble the casserole the night before and let it sit in the fridge overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard fully and can save you time in the morning.

• Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure if your casserole is done baking, inserting a knife into the center should come out clean.

Variation

While the classic Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is delicious as is, you can try some fun variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ham and turkey with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also add spinach for extra nutrition.

• Fruit Add-ins: Consider adding fruit like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or cherries between the layers for a fruity twist. These additions provide a slight tartness that balances the richness of the dish.

• Savory Twist: For a savory version, you might consider using different types of cheeses like cheddar or adding herbs to the custard for a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a combination of milk and a starch like cornstarch or use commercially available egg substitutes to achieve similar texture.

Can I use different bread types for this casserole?

Absolutely! While French bread is traditional, you can use brioche, challah, or sourdough for different textures and flavors.

How can I add more flavor to the casserole?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of orange juice to the custard mixture. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top for extra richness.

Can I prepare the casserole the night before?

Yes, this dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. It will absorb the custard beautifully and need only baking in the morning.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.

Making Monte Cristo French Toast Casserole is a fun and delicious way to start your day or impress guests at a brunch gathering. This flavorful dish is easy to customize, and it offers a great mix of sweet and savory that everyone will enjoy. Remember to follow the directions, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!

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