This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole combines layers of bread, ham, and cheese, all baked together to create a tasty meal perfect for brunch. It’s like a big hug on a plate!
You can serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet surprise! Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds—it’s that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah work best for this casserole due to their softness and slightly sweet flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, white bread or whole grain also works, just make sure it’s a bit stale or toasted for the right texture.
Ham: I like using diced cooked ham, but turkey ham or even a veggie alternative can be great for a lighter or meat-free version.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds crunch and flavor. For a healthier option, you could use turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tempeh bacon! I prefer using thick-cut for extra texture.
Cheese: Swiss cheese brings that classic flavor, but feel free to swap it with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar for a sharper taste.
Vanilla Extract: The vanilla adds a lovely sweetness to balance the savory flavors. If you’re out, you can omit it, but it adds a nice touch!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Soaked?
Getting the bread soaked well in the egg mixture is crucial for a great texture. After pouring the mixture over the layered ingredients, gently press down with a spatula. This helps the bread absorb the flavors.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully.
- Before baking, remember to give it a moment to come to room temperature, which helps it cook evenly.
Letting it sit will make sure every bite is delicious and moist. Enjoy your baking! 😊
How to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 8 cups bread cubes (preferably brioche or challah, toasted or stale)
- 8 oz cooked ham, diced
- 8 oz cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour (or overnight if you have time) for the flavors to blend in the fridge. After that, it bakes for around 1 hour. So, about 1 hour and 15 minutes total, plus any chilling time you choose!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking when it’s done baking.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
In your greased baking dish, start by layering half of the bread cubes. Then, sprinkle half of the diced ham, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese over the bread. Repeat this process with the remaining bread, ham, bacon, and cheese, making sure you have an even layer each time!
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture is what will bring everything together.
4. Combine the Layers:
Once mixed, pour this egg mixture evenly over the layers in your baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the casserole, ensuring the bread cubes soak up as much of that delicious egg mixture as possible.
5. Chill Out:
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the fridge. To really let the flavors meld, let it chill for at least 1 hour, but if you can, overnight is even better!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Before baking, take the casserole out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it bake evenly. Place it uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is nice and golden brown.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’d like, dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top or on the side. Enjoy this hearty and delectable breakfast casserole that everyone will love!
Bon appétit! 🥞🍳
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can substitute with white bread, whole grain, or even sourdough. Just ensure the bread is a bit stale or toasted to absorb the egg mixture better.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge overnight enhances the flavors. Just follow the steps, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. Make sure to take it out about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
What Can I Substitute for Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can use a mixture of silken tofu blended until smooth—about 1/4 cup for each egg. Make sure to add enough liquid (like milk or plant-based milk) to achieve the right texture! Keep in mind it may not set quite as firmly as with eggs.