Description
Wake up to golden, melty, savory goodness with this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole—perfect for a crowd, easy to prep the night before, and packed with layers of fluffy eggs, smoky ham, and creamy cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, holiday brunch, or an easy recipe to wow guests, this casserole delivers cozy food ideas that check every box.
Ingredients
10 cups cubed brioche or challah bread
2 cups diced cooked ham
1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
6 oz cream cheese, softened and broken into small dollops
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Powdered sugar or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Let it sit out to dry slightly if fresh.
3. Layer half the bread into the dish. Top with half the ham, cream cheese, and Swiss cheese.
4. Add remaining bread, then top with remaining ham, cream cheese, and cheese. Press down gently.
5. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Pour egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Press bread to soak up custard.
7. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 1 hour).
8. Preheat oven to 350°F. Let casserole rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
9. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden and set in the center.
10. Drizzle with maple syrup and garnish with powdered sugar or parsley before serving.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture—it holds up better to the custard.
You can substitute Swiss with Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar and maple drizzle right before serving for the full Monte Cristo experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: breakfast casserole, Monte Cristo, easy breakfast, brunch ideas