Monte Cristo

 The brunch sandwich of your dreams

Yields: 

6 serving(s)

Prep Time: 

15 mins

Total Time: 

35 mins

If the thought of warm ham and melty Swiss cheese sandwiched between two slices of French toast sounds tempting, a Monte Cristo might just be your ultimate treat. This sugar-dusted sandwich is a true crowd-pleaser for weekend brunches or even breakfast for dinner. Serve it with a light and fresh green salad or add to the indulgence with crunchy potato chips!

What is the difference between a Monte Cristo and a Croque Monsieur?

A Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich with ham and gruyère cheese layered between slices of buttered bread. What sets the sandwich apart is that it is topped with a luxurious layer of béchamel sauce and cheese, then broiled for a golden, bubbly finish.

A Monte Cristo is a spin-off of the Croque Monsieur. It typically features ham and Swiss cheese, and can include turkey as well. The sandwich is dipped in an egg mixture, similar to what's used for French toast, then pan fried to perfection. (Some restaurants dip the sandwich in a thicker pancake-like batter and deep fry it until crispy.) It’s then dusted with powdered sugar and served with a side of jam for dipping. Or, for an extra touch of sweetness, you can spread the jam directly inside the sandwich!

Can you reheat Monte Cristo sandwiches?

Monte Cristos store and reheat well! If you have leftover sandwiches, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat the sandwiches in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven or air fryer until hot and melty

Ingredients

3 large eggs

1/2 c. milk

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

Pinch ground nutmeg (optional)

2 Tbsp. mayonnaise

2 Tbsp. dijon mustard

12 slices white bread

1 lb. thinly sliced deli ham (at least 18 slices)

1 lb. thinly sliced Swiss cheese (at least 12 slices)

3 Tbsp. salted butter

Powdered sugar, for dusting

3/4 c. raspberry jam, for serving

Directions

1 

Preheat the oven to 200°F.

2 

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and nutmeg, if using.

3 / 

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and mustard. Evenly spread about 1 teaspoon of the mayonnaise mixture on 1 side of each slice of bread. Place 3 folded ham slices on 6 slices of bread. Top each with 2 cheese slices. Top with the remaining 6 slices of bread mayonnaise-side down.

4 / 

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium-low heat. Carefully dip 2 sandwiches in the egg mixture on both sides until fully coated (but not soggy). Add to the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven. Wipe out the skillet and repeat with the remaining butter and sandwiches.

5 /

To serve, cut each sandwich in half. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with raspberry jam for dipping..