Pin The smell of cinnamon and melting Swiss cheese still takes me back to that snowy Sunday morning when my sister announced she was hosting brunch for twelve people with exactly three hours notice. We raided the fridge like frantic treasure hunters, pulling out leftover holiday ham, a random turkey slice package, and a slightly stale baguette. That panic induced casserole became the most requested dish at every family gathering since, and honestly it is better than the version we planned to make.
Last spring my neighbor Sarah texted me at 7 AM having accidentally invited her book club over for breakfast that same morning. I talked her through this recipe over the phone while she searched her cabinets for ingredients. She called me two hours later laughing because they devoured the entire pan and someone actually asked for the recipe before they even finished their first cup of coffee.
Ingredients
- 8 cups French bread cubes: Stale bread works better here as it soaks up the custard without turning mushy or falling apart
- 8 large eggs: Room temperature eggs whisk into a smoother, more uniform custard mixture
- 2 cups whole milk: The extra fat content creates a richer, creamier texture that low fat milk cannot achieve
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for that warm rounded flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Freshly grated cinnamon or a recently opened container makes a noticeable difference
- 1 teaspoon salt: This small amount balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors together
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese: Swiss melts beautifully and adds that nutty depth that makes Monte Cristo sandwiches special
- 1 cup cooked ham: Diced small so every bite gets some meat without overwhelming the delicate custard
- 1 cup cooked turkey: Leftover roasted turkey works perfectly here or use high quality deli turkey
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup: These finishes transform the dish from savory breakfast to sweet brunch masterpiece
Instructions
- Prep your baking dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray
- Layer the bread and meats:
- Toss your bread cubes with the chopped ham and turkey in a large bowl, then spread everything evenly into your prepared baking dish
- Make the custard:
- Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until completely combined and slightly frothy
- Pour and press:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently with your hands to help every cube absorb that sweet spiced liquid
- Add the cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese across the top, making sure some falls into the crevices between bread pieces
- Let it rest:
- Cover the dish with foil and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes so the bread can fully soak up the custard
- Bake covered first:
- Bake for 30 minutes with the foil on to cook everything through without browning the top too quickly
- Finish uncovered:
- Remove the foil and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until the casserole is set and golden brown on top
- Rest before serving:
- Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes so it sets up properly and slices cleanly
- Finish and serve:
- Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup on the side for drizzling
Pin My mother in law still talks about the Christmas morning I made this for our extended family. She took one bite, closed her eyes, and said it reminded her of the breakfasts her grandmother used to make when she was a little girl. That kind of memory connection is exactly why I keep returning to this recipe year after year.
Make It Your Own
Swiss cheese is traditional but Gruyère adds an even deeper nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the maple syrup finish. Sometimes I use half Swiss and half sharp Cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy presence that stands up to the sweet toppings.
Timing Is Everything
The best thing about this casserole is that it actually improves when made ahead. Assemble everything the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. The overnight rest gives the bread time to fully absorb the custard for an incredibly creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh berries add a bright tart contrast to the rich cheesy casserole. A simple green salad with vinaigrette on the side helps cut through the richness and makes the meal feel complete. Keep extra powdered sugar nearby because the first layer always seems to disappear into the warm surface.
- Warm your maple syrup slightly before serving for an extra luxurious touch
- A sprinkle of sea salt over the powdered sugar creates an amazing sweet salty crunch
- Crispy bacon crumbled on top adds texture for anyone who wants extra savory notes
Pin There is something magical about a dish that makes brunch feel effortless while still impressing everyone at the table. This casserole has saved my weekends more times than I can count.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare this Monte Cristo casserole ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish the night before. Simply cover it with aluminum foil and refrigerate. In the morning, you can bake it as directed without any changes to the cooking time, making it perfect for an easy brunch.
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Swiss cheese is traditional for a Monte Cristo, and it melts beautifully here. However, for a different flavor profile, you could substitute part or all of the Swiss with Gruyère for a nuttier taste, or even a mild cheddar for a sharper note.
- → Are there any meat substitutions I can make?
Definitely! While ham and turkey are specified, this bake is versatile. Cooked bacon or breakfast sausage crumbles would be delicious alternatives. Ensure any substituted meat is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
- → How do I know when the breakfast casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when it’s set in the center, golden brown on top, and bubbly around the edges. An inserted knife or skewer should come out mostly clean. Typically, this takes about 45-50 minutes of baking time.
- → What are the best ways to serve this dish?
Serve it warm, fresh from the oven, dusted generously with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup – these are essential for the classic Monte Cristo experience. For added freshness, consider topping individual servings with fresh berries or sliced fruit.
- → Can I use a different kind of bread?
While French bread is ideal for its sturdy texture and ability to soak up the custard, other breads like brioche or challah would also work beautifully, lending an even richer, softer texture to the finished bake. Ensure the bread is slightly stale or cubed and left out for a bit to better absorb the liquid.