Description
This Monte Cristo breakfast casserole transforms the beloved sandwich into an effortless make-ahead dish perfect for feeding crowds. Layers of bread, turkey, and cheese baked in a rich custard create the ultimate brunch centerpiece.
Ingredients
12 cups cubed challah or brioche bread
1 pound sliced turkey breast (deli-style)
8 oz Swiss cheese, cubed
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Butter for greasing
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Layer half the bread cubes in the prepared dish.
3. Add turkey slices and cheese cubes evenly over bread.
4. Top with remaining bread cubes.
5. Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, mustard, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Pour custard mixture slowly over bread layers.
7. Press gently to ensure absorption.
8. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
9. Preheat oven to 350°F.
10. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden and center reaches 160°F.
11. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
12. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture absorption.
Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead.
Substitute Gruyère for Swiss cheese for richer flavor.
Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
Keywords: monte cristo, breakfast casserole, make ahead, brunch recipe