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Ben's Galley Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole: Make-Ahead Crew Favorite

All the sweet and savory flavors of Monte Cristo sandwiches in an easy casserole format. Prep the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast that feeds the whole crew.


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The galley advantage: Prep your Monte Cristo breakfast casserole completely the night before, one dish feeds 12+ people, and it stays warm for extended service.


Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole (Serves 12-15)

Bread Base:

  • 1 large loaf day-old French bread, cubed

  • 2 lbs sliced ham, diced

  • 1 lb sliced turkey, diced

  • 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded


Custard Mixture:

  • 12 large eggs

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon


Topping:

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

  • 1 cup cornflakes, crushed (optional)


For Serving:

  • Powdered sugar

  • Warm maple syrup

  • Strawberry jam


Instructions

Night Before:

  1. Prep dish: Grease a large 9x13 baking dish or hotel pan.

  2. Layer ingredients: Place half the bread cubes in dish, add ham and turkey, sprinkle with cheeses, top with remaining bread.

  3. Make custard: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

  4. Combine: Pour custard over bread mixture, pressing down gently to ensure absorption.

  5. Refrigerate: Cover and chill overnight (8-24 hours).


Morning of Service:

  1. Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C).

  2. Make topping: Mix melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and crushed cornflakes.

  3. Top casserole: Sprinkle topping evenly over surface.

  4. Bake: 45-55 minutes until golden brown and set in center.

  5. Rest: Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

  6. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, serve with warm maple syrup.


Chef's Tips

  • Use day-old bread - absorbs custard better without getting mushy

  • Press down gently - helps bread absorb the custard mixture

  • Don't skip overnight rest - essential for proper texture

  • Test doneness - knife inserted in center should come out mostly clean

  • Keep warm - casserole holds well in warming oven

  • Quality ingredients - good ham and cheese make the difference

  • Make ahead friendly


Serving Suggestions

Classic Service:

  • Cut into squares

  • Dust with powdered sugar

  • Warm maple syrup on the side

  • Fresh berries when available


Crew Variations:

  • Add diced apples to layers

  • Include crispy bacon pieces

  • Serve with strawberry jam

  • Top with whipped cream for special occasions

 
 
 

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