Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Recipe
A delicious Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole that combines savory ham, Swiss cheese, and cubed French bread soaked in a flavorful egg custard, baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole makes a perfect brunch or breakfast dish, especially when served with raspberry preserves for a sweet contrast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 4 Whole Large Eggs
- 1 1/2 Cups Fat Free Half & Half
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard
- Pinch of Nutmeg
- Salt & Pepper to Taste
Main Ingredients
- 6 Cups Stale Cubed French Bread
- 9 Ounces Ham, diced
- 1 1/2 Cups Shredded Swiss Cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat an 8×8″ or 9×9″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Mix the Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, fat free half & half, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Coat the Bread: Add the cubed French bread to the egg mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure each bread piece is evenly coated with the custard.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Gently fold in the diced ham and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese into the bread mixture, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the prepared mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with a side of raspberry preserves to add a delightful sweet contrast.
Notes
- Using stale French bread helps absorb the custard better and prevents sogginess.
- Feel free to substitute ham with turkey or cooked chicken for variation.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor if desired.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for convenience.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Keywords: Monte Cristo, breakfast casserole, ham and cheese casserole, baked breakfast, Swiss cheese, brunch recipe
