Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream: This delightful dish transforms breakfast into a sweet and savory dream, perfect for brunch or a comforting weekend meal. It’s incredibly useful for busy mornings, offering a make-ahead solution that’s both elegant and easy.

Key Ingredients for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream:

• 1 loaf (16 ounces) challah or brioche bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
• 8 ounces smoked ham, thinly sliced or diced
• 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Butter for greasing the baking dish
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
• Raspberry or strawberry jam, for serving
• Maple syrup, for serving

How to Make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream:

This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a sweet and savory dream come true for any meal occasion. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, delivering a burst of satisfying flavors with every bite. The rich texture and delightful combination of sweet and savory notes make it a standout dish. With a prep time of about 20 minutes and a bake time of 45-55 minutes, you can enjoy this delightful casserole without a fuss.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the challah or brioche bread into 1-inch cubes. If your bread is fresh, you can lightly toast the cubes in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to help them absorb the custard better without becoming mushy. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
2. Assemble the Base: Add the diced ham and shredded Gruyère cheese to the bowl with the bread cubes. Gently toss to distribute them evenly.
3. Incorporate the Cream Cheese: Dot the cream cheese cubes evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese mixture. Try not to overmix at this stage; the cream cheese will melt and create pockets of creamy goodness.
4. Prepare the Custard: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and a good grinding of black pepper.
5. Soak the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula to ensure they are submerged in the custard. Let the mixture sit for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator) to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
6. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake the Casserole: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
8. Initial Baking: Bake for 30 minutes covered.
9. Final Baking: Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown, puffed up, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Rest and Serve: Let the Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Dust generously with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm with raspberry or strawberry jam and maple syrup on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream:

This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a true sweet and savory dream, offering a delightful departure from ordinary breakfast fare. Its main feature is the ingenious combination of classic Monte Cristo flavors – rich ham, melted Gruyère, and a hint of sweetness – all baked into a comforting, custardy bread pudding. Making this at home is not only a joy but also incredibly cost-effective compared to enjoying a similar dish at a restaurant, allowing you to impress without breaking the bank. The indulgent touches like the dusting of confectioners’ sugar and the tangy jam elevate this dish from simple breakfast to a special occasion treat.

Imagine the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen as this casserole bakes, a prelude to the decadent experience awaiting you. It’s more than just a breakfast; it’s an experience akin to a gourmet French toast, but with the satisfying heartiness of a savory breakfast bake. Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or simply craving a comforting start to your day, this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream is sure to become a beloved recipe. Don’t wait to treat yourself and your loved ones to this incredible dish – try it at home this weekend!

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigeration: Leftover Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap and foil in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It retains its delicious flavor and texture when properly stored.
• Reheating:
  • Oven Method (Recommended): For the best texture, reheat individual or larger portions in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 15-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the top slightly.
  • Microwave Method: For a quicker option, reheat individual slices in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be aware that the texture may be softer than when reheated in the oven.
• Freezing: To freeze for future meals, let the baked casserole cool completely. You can freeze the entire casserole or individual portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the oven method for best results.

Final Thoughts:

This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole Sweet Savory Dream truly lives up to its name, offering an unforgettable blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a wonderfully versatile dish that’s as perfect for a holiday brunch as it is for a regular weekend treat. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new breakfast favorite that’s both impressive and incredibly satisfying.