Name: Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole: 6 Savory Layers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 360 ml fat-free half & half; 7.5 ml Dijon mustard; Pinch of ground nutmeg; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 180 g stale French bread, cubed; 255 g ham, diced; 180 g Swiss cheese, shredded; Non-stick cooking spray

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Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of eggs, ham, Swiss cheese, and French bread. Perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings, this casserole brings a unique twist to your morning meal. Imagine cutting into a warm, fluffy casserole that tastes like a gourmet brunch dish without the fuss. It’s a hearty option that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is not just delicious but also offers several benefits that make it a must-try:

Convenient: Great for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Flavorful: Combines sweet and savory elements for a satisfying meal.
Versatile: Can be made with various meats like turkey or bacon.
Easy to Prepare: Just mix and bake—perfect for busy mornings.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Low Fat: Ideal for those watching their diet (as per JSON.Details.Diet).

This Monte Cristo brunch bake is a delightful way to start your day!

Ingredients for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Gather these items:

4 large eggs
360 ml fat-free half & half
7.5 ml Dijon mustard
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
180 g stale French bread, cubed
255 g ham, diced
180 g Swiss cheese, shredded
Non-stick cooking spray

How to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 175°C. Lightly coat the interior of a 20×20 cm or 23×23 cm baking dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, fat-free half & half, Dijon mustard, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Add cubed French bread to the egg mixture and stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
Step 4: Fold in diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese until distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
Step 6: Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese has fully melted.
Step 7: Remove from oven and allow to rest for several minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with raspberry preserves.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your French bread is stale for the best texture.
Try adding a layer of raspberry preserves for a sweet contrast.
This dish can be prepared the night before; just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Best Ways to Serve Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Here are a few serving ideas:

Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Serve with a light salad for a brunch option.
Drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet twist.

How to Store and Reheat Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, ensuring that it retains its delicious texture. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole?

The secret lies in using stale French bread, which absorbs the egg mixture beautifully and results in a soft, custardy center while remaining slightly crispy on the edges.

Can I make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish the night before. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole?

Ensure you don’t overmix the bread and egg mixture, as this can make the casserole dense. Allow it to rest before slicing for the best presentation.

Variations of Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Swap ham for turkey for a lighter breakfast casserole.
Add crispy bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
For a vegetarian option, replace meat with sautéed spinach and mushrooms.

These adaptations highlight the versatility of this classic American dish.

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole: 6 Savory Layers - Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole - main visual representation

Enjoy this delicious casserole that brings a gourmet touch to your breakfast table!

For more delightful recipes, check out our Chocolate Oatmeal Bars or Mini Cranberry Cheesecakes.