This Easy Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delicious morning treat! It combines French toast, ham, and cheese all in one cozy dish. It’s easy to make ahead of time for a stress-free brunch.
You can’t go wrong with a buttery, crispy top and gooey cheese inside! Trust me, your friends and family will love this tasty twist on a classic sandwich. I love serving it with fresh fruit on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Bread: This recipe shines with soft white bread. If you need a gluten-free option, you can swap in gluten-free bread. Brioche also works great for a sweeter touch!
Ham: I love using sliced ham, but turkey or chicken can also work well if you want something lighter. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed spinach or mushrooms instead!
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese gives a great flavor, but you can substitute with Gruyère or even cheddar for a sharper taste. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based cheese.
Eggs: This recipe calls for large eggs, but if you’re vegan, consider using a flax egg or a commercial egg replacement as a binding agent.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Well-Soaked?
The key to a good overnight casserole is letting it soak. After pouring the egg mixture, press down gently on the bread layers. This helps them soak up the custard mix. Wrap it tightly and pop it in the fridge overnight to really let those flavors marry!
- Don’t rush the soaking time; 6 hours minimum is best.
- Use a glass or ceramic baking dish to evenly distribute heat.
Be sure to check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
Easy Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 to 10 slices white bread, crusts removed and cut into triangles
- 8 oz sliced ham
- 8 oz sliced Swiss cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh raspberries, for garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. It takes approximately 45 to 55 minutes to bake the next day. Including prep and cooking time, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes in total—plus overnight soaking! So set aside some time for a delicious morning surprise.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or a little butter. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Create the Base Layer:
Arrange half of the bread triangles in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. They can be slightly overlapping but try to cover the bottom as much as possible.
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Layer all the sliced ham evenly over the bread. Then, add all the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham, spreading them out so every bit gets cheesy goodness.
4. Top with Remaining Bread:
Cover this savory layer with the rest of the bread triangles, placing them in a similar overlapping pattern as before. This will create a lovely top crust.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg until everything is well blended. This mixture is what makes the bread nice and custardy!
6. Soak the Casserole:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, ham, and cheese. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press down on the bread, ensuring it soaks up the egg mixture.
7. Add the Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter over the top layer of the bread. This will help it turn beautifully golden and crispy while baking.
8. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 6 hours). This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak thoroughly.
9. Baking Time:
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes while the oven warms up. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle (a knife should come out clean).
10. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh raspberries and sprigs of rosemary for a lovely presentation.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the casserole warm. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Enjoy this delightful breakfast with family and friends!
This Easy Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings or simple weekend family breakfasts. It’s comforting, delicious, and easy to prepare ahead of time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white bread works great, you can also use brioche, challah, or even whole grain bread for added texture and flavor. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Without Refrigerating Overnight?
Yes, but for the best results, it’s recommended to let it soak for at least 6 hours. If you’re short on time, you can still prepare it and bake it right away, but it may not be as custardy and flavorful.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the white bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like deli meats and cheeses, are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance while preparing this delicious casserole!
