Monte Cristo Casserole is a savory and indulgent breakfast dish inspired by the classic Monte Cristo sandwich. Made with French toast sticks, ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, this casserole is perfect for special occasions like holidays or brunch. It can be prepared the night before, making it an easy and delicious dish to serve to guests.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 20 oz cinnamon French toast sticks, cubed

• 1 cup deli ham, diced

• 1 cup deli turkey, diced

• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped

• 6 eggs

• 1 cup milk

• 1 pint strawberries

• Powdered sugar for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Cube the French toast sticks, ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and parsley. Layer in a 9×12 baking dish.

3. Whisk eggs and milk together, then pour over the layered ingredients.

4. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the egg mixture sets.

5. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes.

6. Slice strawberries and top the casserole with powdered sugar and fresh strawberries.

Nutrients

• Calories: 337 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 42 g

• Protein: 17 g

• Fat: 11 g

• Saturated Fat: 4 g

• Cholesterol: 140 mg

• Sodium: 508 mg

• Potassium: 331 mg

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 9 g

• Vitamin A: 430 IU

• Vitamin C: 36.2 mg

• Calcium: 268 mg

• Iron: 3.4 mg

The Origins of the Monte Cristo

The Monte Cristo sandwich, often associated with French cuisine, has origins in the United States, specifically in California. While many consider it to be a variation of the French croque-monsieur (a grilled ham and cheese sandwich), the Monte Cristo gained its unique twist in America. The sandwich became popular in the 1950s and found a home in diners and restaurants across the nation.

The combination of savory ham and turkey with Swiss cheese, all encased in French toast, made it a delightful choice for breakfast or lunch. The Monte Cristo was often served with a side of jam or fruit preserves, giving it that perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Why Make Monte Cristo Casserole?

Making a Monte Cristo casserole is an easy way to enjoy the flavors of the traditional sandwich in a more family-friendly format. This casserole is perfect for holiday brunches, special occasions, or a delicious weekend breakfast. It offers several advantages over the sandwich, including easier preparation, less mess, and the ability to feed a crowd.

Unlike the sandwich, which requires grilling each component individually, the casserole allows all the ingredients to bake together, creating a cohesive and flavorful dish. The bread soaks up the egg mixture, making each bite fluffy and flavorful, with the cheese melting perfectly throughout.

A Great Option for Busy Mornings or Gatherings

One of the standout features of the Monte Cristo casserole is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. This makes it ideal for holiday mornings when you want to enjoy a delicious breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning.

It is also a great option for gatherings or potlucks. The casserole can easily be sliced into individual servings, making it perfect for sharing with friends or family. Whether it’s Easter brunch, a Christmas morning celebration, or a special weekend breakfast, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Versatility of Ingredients

While the classic Monte Cristo sandwich features ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, the beauty of the casserole lies in its versatility. You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can swap out the Swiss cheese for cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use whole wheat bread or a gluten-free alternative. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat and add extra veggies such as spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

This versatility allows you to make the dish your own while still keeping the essence of the Monte Cristo sandwich intact. Whether you’re serving a large crowd or preparing a dish for just a few, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your needs.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Benefits

While the Monte Cristo casserole is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits as well. The combination of eggs, turkey, and ham provides a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and providing energy. Additionally, the casserole can be made with whole grain bread, which offers fiber that aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

However, it is important to note that the casserole is a rich dish, and like most comfort food recipes, it should be enjoyed in moderation. For a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using leaner cuts of meat. Additionally, adding a side of fresh fruit or a light salad can balance out the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Monte Cristo Casserole

Monte Cristo casserole is typically served for breakfast or brunch, but it can also work as a satisfying dinner. To enhance the meal, you can serve it with a simple side salad or some fresh fruit. The sweetness of strawberries or a berry compote pairs wonderfully with the savory casserole. Additionally, a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an extra layer of flavor, bringing the dish closer to the sweet-salty experience of the original sandwich.

For a more hearty meal, you can pair the casserole with some crispy bacon or sausage on the side. The richness of the meat complements the creamy and cheesy casserole, creating a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours.

Making It Ahead of Time

One of the best aspects of the Monte Cristo casserole is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. This makes it perfect for busy mornings when you want to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment. You can prepare the casserole the night before by layering the bread, ham, turkey, cheese, and egg mixture in a baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply pop it into the oven and bake it until golden and bubbly.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast or snack. You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or for having a quick, homemade meal on hand.

Conclusion

The Monte Cristo casserole offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of the classic sandwich without all the hassle of grilling and assembling individual sandwiches. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner and can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a special event, preparing for a busy morning, or simply looking for a new family favorite, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.