Name: Monte Cristo Casserole: Your Perfect Make-Ahead Brunch Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 575 min
Ingredients: 8 cups Bread Cubes (Day-old rustic sourdough or Pugliese works well.); 6 large Eggs; 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (Whole grain mustard can be used.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half.); 1 cup Whole Milk; 8 ounces Cooked Ham (Thinly sliced deli ham.); 8 ounces Roast Turkey Breast (Deli-sliced turkey.); 2 cups Gruyère Cheese (Can substitute with Swiss or mozzarella.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Can replace with olive oil.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For dusting before serving.); 1/2 cup Raspberry Preserves (Can swap for strawberry or apricot.)

The morning sun peeked through my kitchen window, casting a warm glow on the breakfast table, filled with laughter and chatter. That’s when I decided to whip up a Monte Cristo Casserole, a dish that brings the irresistible sweet and savory flavors of the classic sandwich to life in an easy, make-ahead breakfast. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines buttery, custard-soaked bread with layers of ham, turkey, and melted Gruyère cheese, all topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar. It’s perfect for those lazy weekend brunches or festive gatherings where you want to impress without being stuck flipping individual sandwiches. Plus, the best part? You can prepare this delightful dish the night before, allowing you to savor every moment with your loved ones. Are you ready to discover a new brunch favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds?

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Crowd-Pleaser: This Monte Cristo Casserole is a guaranteed hit at any gathering, combining beloved flavors in one harmonious dish.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before, so you can relax and enjoy your brunch without the last-minute stress.

Rich, Savory Goodness: Each bite features buttery bread soaked in a creamy custard, layered with savory ham and turkey, topped off with gooey Gruyère cheese.

Unique Twist: Unlike traditional sandwiches, this casserole offers a delightful variation on the classic Monte Cristo, making it a fun and tasty experience.

Versatile Flavorful Pairings: Serve it warm alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal, allowing you to customize with your favorite sides!

For more delicious make-ahead ideas, check out my Eggs Benedict Casserole or indulge in the comforting flavors of a Green Chile Casserole.

Monte Cristo Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Bread Cubes – Use day-old bread for best absorption; rustic sourdough or Pugliese works well.
• Eggs – Large eggs provide optimal texture and binding for the casserole.
• Dijon Mustard – A flavor enhancer; whole grain mustard can be used for a different taste.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds a touch of seasoning for that perfect finish.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Whole Milk – Serves as a foundation for moisture and texture.

For the Meats
• Cooked Ham – Thinly sliced deli ham is acceptable and perfect for proteins.
• Roast Turkey Breast – Deli-sliced turkey makes a great substitute and keeps it tender.

For the Cheese
• Gruyère Cheese – Offers creaminess and flavor; Swiss or mozzarella are also great substitutes.

For Topping
• Butter – Ensures richness and browning; can be replaced with olive oil if desired.
• Powdered Sugar – Dust on top for a sweet finish, a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
• Raspberry Preserves – Your ideal accompaniment; swap for strawberry or apricot preserves if preferred.

This Monte Cristo Casserole is sure to spark joy and satisfy any brunch crowd!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Monte Cristo Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F. If using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Let them toast in the oven for 20-30 minutes until slightly dry, which helps absorb the custard. Keep an eye on them; they should be pale and firm but not browned. Once ready, remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, Dijon mustard, salt, ground black pepper, heavy cream, and whole milk. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. This custard blend is key to a rich flavor for your Monte Cristo Casserole, so take a moment to get it right.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Begin layering by adding one-third of the prepared bread cubes into the dish, followed by half of the Gruyère cheese, half of the cooked ham, and half of the roast turkey. Pour one-third of the custard mixture over these layers, allowing it to soak in. Repeat this process for the second layer, then top with the remaining bread cubes, custard, and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a lovely crust.

Step 4: Chill
Cover the assembled casserole tightly with a layer of oiled foil. Refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the bread fully absorb the custard. This make-ahead step ensures your Monte Cristo Casserole is ready to bake when you are, making for a stress-free brunch.

Step 5: Bake
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the foil from the casserole and place it in the oven. Bake for 50 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The casserole should puff up and turn golden brown, with a knife inserted in the center coming out clean.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the Monte Cristo Casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and accompany with raspberry preserves to elevate the flavor. Enjoy your delightful creation!

How to Store and Freeze Monte Cristo Casserole

Fridge: Store unused portions in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the casserole (prepared, before baking) for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes until warmed through. It’s a delightful way to savor your Monte Cristo Casserole again!

Leftovers: Serve leftover portions with fresh fruit or salad to create a balanced meal, keeping it tasty and enjoyable!

Make Ahead Options

These Monte Cristo Casserole are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by layering the bread, meats, cheese, and custard, then covering it tightly with oiled foil and refrigerating overnight. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also ensures the bread absorbs the custard for a moist dish. To maintain quality, avoid sogginess by using day-old bread or drying fresh bread in the oven beforehand. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 350°F, bake it for 50 minutes covered, and an additional 15 minutes uncovered for that perfect golden finish. Enjoy stress-free brunch moments with your loved ones!

What to Serve with Monte Cristo Casserole

The perfect meal is all about balance and variety, and these delightful pairings will elevate your brunch experience.

Fresh Fruit Medley: Juicy berries and sliced citrus provide a refreshing contrast, brightening up the plate and adding a splash of color.
Crispy Green Salad: A light, crunchy salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette offers a wonderful contrast to the richness of the casserole. It’s a crisp, invigorating bite between savory spoonfuls.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of sweet, warm maple syrup drizzled over each slice enhances the sweet-salty dynamic of the Monte Cristo Casserole.
Classic Mimosa: Sparkling and refreshing, this drink complements the dish’s richness while the citrus elevates the flavors, making every sip feel special.
Herb-Infused Yogurt: A dollop of herbed yogurt adds tang and creaminess, creating a delightful balance to the savory notes of the casserole.
Cinnamon Sugar Toast: For those with a sweet tooth, serving warm toast dusted with cinnamon sugar can echo the sweet topping of powdered sugar on the casserole, a cozy addition to your brunch spread.
Savory Quiche: A slice of vegetable or cheese quiche could be a fabulous side, providing another comforting texture while keeping the brunch spread varied and interesting.

Elevate your Monte Cristo Casserole with these delicious options!

Expert Tips for the Best Monte Cristo Casserole

Use Day-Old Bread: Opt for stale bread to ensure it absorbs the custard fully. Fresh bread needs thorough drying in the oven to achieve the same effect.
Layer Wisely: Distributing cheese, ham, and turkey evenly across layers is crucial. This ensures every bite of your Monte Cristo Casserole is flavorful and well-balanced.
Chill Overnight: Letting the casserole rest in the fridge overnight allows flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard thoroughly. Don’t skip this step!
Keep an Eye on Baking: Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to achieve that lovely golden top. This adds a wonderful texture to your casserole.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap out meats, cheeses, or even add vegetables to make this dish your own. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your favorite flavors!

Monte Cristo Casserole Variations

Feel free to personalize this Monte Cristo Casserole with delightful twists that cater to your taste buds!

Bacon or Sausage: Swap ham for crispy bacon or savory sausage for a hearty breakfast twist. Each gives a satisfying crunch and a rich flavor enhancement.
Cheddar Cheese: Experiment with sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor contrast. This cheese melts beautifully, adding a bold character to the dish.
Vegetable Medley: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutritious touch. Not only does this add color, but it also amps up the healthiness of your brunch!
Spicy Kick: Include slices of jalapeños for a spicy surprise in every bite. Just a few slices can elevate the flavor profile and bring warmth to the dish.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs such as thyme or chives into the custard mix for added freshness. This subtle touch will enliven your casserole with fragrant notes.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or even a mixture of almond flour and eggs for a low-carb version. It will ensure everyone at your table can enjoy this delightful dish!
Fruit Swaps: Instead of raspberry preserves, offer apricot or mixed berry preserves as a sweet pairing. This can change the entire flavor experience, making it feel new and exciting!

For more delicious inspiration, don’t miss out on my crowd-pleasing Chicken Fajita Casserole or the comforting Vegetarian Casserole Slow.

Monte Cristo Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of bread should I use for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best results, use day-old bread like rustic sourdough or Pugliese. These types have a firmer structure, allowing them to absorb the custard beautifully. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it in a 225°F oven for 20-30 minutes until slightly toasted, but avoid soft sandwich bread, which can become mushy.

How should I store leftovers of the Monte Cristo Casserole?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to let the casserole cool to room temperature before sealing it up. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors even after your brunch gathering!

Can I freeze the Monte Cristo Casserole?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole but don’t bake it yet. Wrap the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it following the original instructions.

What should I do if my casserole is soggy after baking?
If you find your casserole is a bit soggy, it’s likely due to using fresh bread without proper drying or not allowing it to chill overnight. To remedy this in the future, ensure you use day-old bread or dry fresh bread adequately. Also, always chill the assembled casserole overnight for the best texture before baking.

Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind?
Very! If you’re preparing this for guests, consider any dietary restrictions. For gluten-free versions, use gluten-free bread, and for dairy sensitivity, try almond milk and dairy-free cheese as alternatives. Always check labels to ensure they’re appropriate for your friends or family visiting, especially if they have allergies.