This Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a dream come true! It layers fluffy bread, ham, and cheese, then blends it all with a rich egg mixture—simple and tasty.
I love making this the night before; it saves time in the morning! Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a breakfast that tastes like a delightful sandwich? Yum! 🥪✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using brioche for its softness and slight sweetness. Challah is a great alternative, too. If you want to make it a bit healthier, whole grain or gluten-free bread can work, but it might change the texture a bit.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential for the richness of this dish. If you need an egg substitute due to allergies, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water).
Meats: The combination of ham and turkey gives a nice flavor. If you’re wanting a lighter dish, smoked turkey or chicken is a fantastic choice. For vegetarian options, replace the meats with sautéed veggies like spinach and mushrooms.
Cheese: Swiss cheese brings a mild and nutty flavor. If you can’t find Swiss cheese, Monterey Jack or Gruyère are good substitutes for a similar taste. You could even use cheddar for a sharper twist!
How Do I Ensure All the Bread Absorbs the Egg Mixture?
Getting the bread to soak up the egg mixture is key for a delicious casserole. First, after pouring the mixture over the layered casserole, gently press down on the bread with a spatula. This helps the liquid get in between the slices.
- Be sure to cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it overnight. The longer it sits, the better it absorbs the liquid.
- Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, sliced (10-12 slices)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces sliced ham
- 8 ounces sliced turkey or chicken
- 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for garnish
- Fresh raspberries (optional)
- Fresh rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and requires at least 4 hours (or overnight) of refrigeration to soak. The baking time is around 45-55 minutes. So, plan for a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes plus overnight chilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it well so that your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Layer the Bread:
Arrange half of the sliced bread in a single layer at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure the slices fit snugly together to create a solid base for your casserole.
3. Add the Meats and Cheese:
Now, layer the sliced ham evenly over the bread, followed by the turkey (or chicken), and finish with the Swiss cheese. It’ll be a yummy, savory layer that brings the casserole together!
4. Finish with More Bread:
Take the remaining bread slices and place them on top to cover the entire casserole. This will help create a lovely golden crust when it bakes.
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. It’s going to add a rich flavor to your casserole!
6. Pour and Soak:
Take your egg mixture and pour it evenly over the layered bread and meats. Gently press down on the bread slices to make sure they soak up the mixture well.
7. Chill Overnight:
Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge to chill. Let it soak for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor!
8. Ready to Bake:
The next morning, take your casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps it bake evenly.
9. Bake Until Golden:
Bake the casserole, uncovered, in your preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the egg is set and the top looks golden brown and delicious!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This makes serving easier and keeps it together better.
11. Enjoy Your Casserole:
Serve the casserole warm, dusted with powdered sugar. You can also add fresh raspberries and sprigs of rosemary on top for a beautiful and tasty finish. Enjoy your delicious Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are recommended for their richness, you can also use French bread, sourdough, or even whole grain bread. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up when soaked in the egg mixture.
Can I Prep This Casserole Without Refrigerating Overnight?
Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, let the assembled casserole sit for at least 4 hours at room temperature before baking. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture adequately, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for the Ham and Turkey?
If you prefer, you can use bacon, sausage, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to fully cook any raw meats before it’s baked!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 15-20 minutes for larger pieces.
