Sweet and Savory Monte Cristo Brunch Bake

This Sweet and Savory Monte Cristo Brunch Bake transforms the classic deep-fried sandwich into a delectable casserole layered with French bread, turkey, ham, and cheese, soaked in a rich egg mixture and served with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar and a side of raspberry preserves for dipping.

Ingredients & Variations

• Bread: Cubed French bread forms the base of this casserole, soaking up the egg mixture for a delicious texture.
• Meats: Use a combination of cubed turkey and ham to replicate the traditional Monte Cristo flavors.
• Cheese: Layers of Swiss and mild cheddar cheese add gooey goodness throughout.
• Toppings: After baking, sprinkle confectioners’ sugar for a sweet finish and serve with raspberry preserves for dipping.

Why This Works

The blend of sweet and savory elements makes this dish a standout, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a unique dinner. By preparing it in advance and baking it the next day, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting meal.

Preparation Overview

1. Layering: Begin with a layer of bread cubes, followed by turkey, ham, and both cheeses. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used.
2. Egg Mixture: Whisk together eggs and milk, and pour over the layered ingredients in the dish. This helps bind everything together during baking.
3. Chilling: Allow the casserole to chill overnight in the refrigerator to ensure the bread fully absorbs the egg mixture.

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center sets.
2. Serving: Let the casserole cool slightly before sprinkling with confectioners’ sugar and serving with raspberry preserves on the side.

Ingredients

• French Bread: 1 loaf (16 ounces) [454 g], cut into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) cubes
• Turkey: ½ pound [227 g], cut into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) cubes
• Ham: ½ pound [227 g], cut into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) cubes
• Swiss Cheese: 1 cup [113 g], shredded
• Mild Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup [113 g], shredded
• Eggs: 12 large
• Whole Milk: 2 cups [473 ml]

Toppings

• Confectioners’ Sugar: For dusting
• Raspberry Preserves: For serving

Instructions

1. Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray. Layer half of the bread cubes, followed by half of the turkey, ham, Swiss cheese, and cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
2. Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish.
3. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
4. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
5. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before dusting with confectioners’ sugar. Serve warm with raspberry preserves on the side.

This Monte Cristo Brunch Bake offers all the flavors of the beloved sandwich in a more communal, shareable form, making it perfect for gatherings or a lazy weekend brunch.