This Easy Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole combines bread, eggs, ham, and cheese into a tasty dish you can prepare the night before. Just pop it in the oven in the morning!
I love waking up to the smell of a hearty breakfast waiting for me. Plus, making it ahead means more time for coffee—because we all know that’s the real breakfast star! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cubed Bread: French bread or brioche works best. They’re soft and soak up the egg mixture nicely. If you have leftover bread, any stale bread will work great, too! Don’t hesitate to try challah for an extra touch of sweetness.
Deli Ham: I prefer sliced deli ham for its convenience, but you could use turkey ham or even leftover roasted turkey. Feel free to switch it up with cooked bacon or sausage for a different flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional here, but you can use other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar if you prefer. Mixing cheeses can add depth and enhance the flavor of your casserole!
Granulated Sugar: The sugar adds a hint of sweetness. You can reduce the quantity or use brown sugar for a more caramel-like flavor. If you’re watching sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly?
To ensure your casserole is fluffy and delicious, follow these important steps:
- Ensure the bread is cubed evenly so it cooks uniformly.
- Let the casserole soak overnight – this helps the bread absorb the egg mixture and makes for a custardy texture.
- Bake it uncovered! This helps form a nice golden crust on top.
- Check for doneness: the eggs should be firm but not overcooked. Rotate the dish halfway through baking for even cooking.
Allowing it to cool for a few minutes before serving allows the casserole to set up a bit, making it easier to slice. Lastly, don’t skip the powdered sugar. It adds a delightful touch when paired with syrup!
Easy Overnight Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups cubed bread (such as French bread or brioche)
- 8 ounces sliced deli ham, chopped
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
For the Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup or raspberry preserves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. Once it’s ready to bake, plan for about 45-55 minutes in the oven. In total, you’re looking at a bit of planning ahead, but the hands-on time is super simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with some cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking and make sure your casserole comes out easily.
2. Layer the Bread, Ham, and Cheese:
Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, sprinkle your chopped ham and shredded Swiss cheese on top, distributing them evenly over the bread cubes.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and ground mustard (if using). Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Layers:
Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese layers in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread so it can soak up the liquid evenly. This step will give you that delicious custardy texture!
5. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight, or at least for 6 hours, to ensure the bread soaks up all the goodness.
6. Preheat the Oven:
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, you can take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a bit.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Remove the cover from the baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake it for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden. You’ll love the smell that fills your kitchen!
8. Cool and Dust:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for just a few minutes. If you’d like, dust the top with some powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your delicious casserole and serve it warm. Drizzle some maple syrup or raspberry preserves on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your hearty Monte Cristo breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While French bread or brioche works best, you can also use challah, sourdough, or even whole grain bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. Many varieties are available, just make sure to check for quality to ensure the best texture and flavor!
Can I Reheat Leftovers?
Yes! Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables or Other Ingredients?
Definitely! You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cook the vegetables first to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
