This Healthy Monte Cristo Casserole is a tasty twist on the classic sandwich. It layers whole grain bread, turkey, ham, and cheese, all baked in a fluffy egg mixture. Yum!
It’s a fun and filling dish that brings breakfast vibes to lunch or dinner. I love serving it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of fruit—you get the best of both worlds! 🍇
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Wheat Bread: This bread adds fiber and makes the casserole healthier. If you can’t find whole wheat, you could use a whole grain bread or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to soaking.
Lean Turkey & Ham: Using lean meats keeps the dish lighter. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could substitute cooked chicken or leave out the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. Just add more cheese or some sautéed veggies.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese gives a nice melt and flavor. Gouda or Monterey Jack are great substitutes. If you want to keep it lighter, opt for a reduced-fat cheese.
Cinnamon: This adds a hint of sweetness. For an alternative, you could skip it or use a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor.
How Do You Get the Best Texture in Your Casserole?
The secret to a fluffy yet firm casserole lies in the soaking process. After combining everything, letting it sit for about 10 minutes is key. This gives the bread time to soak up the egg mixture for a nice texture after baking. Here’s how to do it:
- Spread half of the bread in the dish, layer the meats and cheese, then add the rest of the bread.
- When pouring the egg mixture, make sure every piece of bread gets moistened by pushing down gently.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before baking to allow for proper absorption. This ensures each bite is creamy without being soggy.
Healthy Monte Cristo Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices whole wheat bread, crusts removed and cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups skim milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 oz sliced lean turkey breast
- 4 oz sliced lean ham
- 6 oz Swiss cheese, sliced or shredded
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
- Raspberry or strawberry preserves, for serving
- Fresh raspberries or grapes, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Then, it needs 45-50 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of about 1 hour for preparation and cooking. Let it cool briefly before digging in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9×9 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, skim milk (or almond milk), Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon until everything is well blended. This mixture is what will help bind the casserole together and make it fluffy!
3. Layer the Bread:
Spread half of your bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This base will soak up all that delicious egg mixture and help create a nice texture.
4. Add the Meats and Cheese:
Now it’s time to layer! Place the sliced turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese evenly over the bread cubes. This is where the flavors come together, so spread them out nicely.
5. Complete the Layers:
Top the meat and cheese layer with the remaining bread cubes. Press down gently to make sure they fit snugly together.
6. Pour and Soak:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Use a spatula to press down on the bread a little, ensuring they soak up the liquid as evenly as possible. This soaking step is important for that great texture!
7. Let It Sit:
Allow your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the bread time to really soak in that egg mixture, making each bite soft and fluffy.
8. Bake It Up:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the egg is set. You can give it a gentle shake—if it jiggles slightly in the center, it needs a little more time.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
10. Finish with Garnish:
If you like, dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Serve with raspberry or strawberry preserves on the side and some fresh fruit like raspberries or grapes to complete your meal!
Enjoy your healthy, savory, and slightly sweet Monte Cristo casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While whole wheat bread is the star ingredient here, you can use any sturdy bread type, such as whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure it’s not too soft to hold up during baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge. This is a great time-saver!
What Can I Serve With This Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, like berries or grapes, and a drizzle of raspberry or strawberry preserves. For a complete meal, consider adding a vibrant green salad or some steamed veggies on the side for extra nutrients.