Ingredients
1 loaf (13-16 oz) brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10-12 cups)
12 oz cooked ham, diced
8 oz shredded Swiss cheese, divided
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Raspberry or strawberry jam, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Layer half of the diced ham and half of the shredded Swiss cheese over the bread cubes.
Step 4: Repeat the layering with the remaining bread cubes, ham, and Swiss cheese.
Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 6: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
Step 7: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 8: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Sprinkle the top with any remaining shredded Swiss cheese if desired.
Step 9: Bake the covered casserole for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve with raspberry or strawberry jam on the side.
Notes
For best results, use day-old brioche or challah bread, as it will soak up the custard more effectively without becoming soggy. Don't skip the Dijon mustard – it adds a subtle tang that truly enhances the classic Monte Cristo flavor profile. This casserole is fantastic served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and alongside a dollop of raspberry or strawberry jam.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8th casserole
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg