Introduction: Indulge in a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors with Cristo Breakfast Casserole, a creative twist on the iconic Monte Cristo sandwich. This breakfast casserole takes all the delicious elements of the Monte Cristo – ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and French toast – and transforms them into a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply looking to elevate your breakfast game, this flavorful casserole is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to bring the flavors of the Monte Cristo to your breakfast table!
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (such as brioche or Texas toast), cut into cubes
- 8 slices deli ham, diced
- 8 slices deli turkey, diced
- 1 and 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 and 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, diced ham, diced turkey, and shredded Swiss cheese. Toss to mix evenly.
- Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour and Soak:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread mixture in the baking dish, ensuring that all the bread cubes are coated.
- Press down lightly on the bread cubes with a spatula to help them absorb the egg mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish.
- Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top of the casserole for a touch of sweetness.
- Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup if desired.
- Storage:
- Any leftover Cristo Breakfast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion: Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, combining savory ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese with the comforting flavors of French toast. Whether enjoyed for a leisurely weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this flavorful casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the deliciousness of Cristo Breakfast Casserole – your taste buds will thank you!