When the weekend rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the comforting smell of baked deliciousness wafting through the kitchen. This Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic French favorite, transforming the beloved sandwich into a luxurious brunch centerpiece. Imagine layers of buttery bread soaked in a creamy béchamel sauce, interspersed with savory ham and rich Gruyère cheese—each bite transports you straight to a charming Parisian café.
As brunch gatherings often lean on the same tired options, this easy, make-ahead casserole breaks the mold spectacularly! You can prep it the night before, freeing you to savor your morning with family or friends without the stress. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy weekend treat, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. So dust off that baking dish and let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why is the Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole unforgettable?
Simplicity: This recipe transforms a classic into an easy-to-assemble dish, perfect for busy mornings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its combination of flavors and textures is a guaranteed hit at any brunch gathering.
Make-Ahead: Assemble it the night before, maximizing your time to enjoy the company of loved ones.
Versatility: Feel free to adapt it with your favorite cheeses or veggies for a personal touch.
Comforting: Each layer delivers that warm, cozy sensation that makes brunch truly special.
Don’t miss the chance to impress your guests with this delightful twist on a traditional favorite!
Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- Country-Style Bread – A thick, buttery base contributing great texture and structure.
- Eggs – Fresh eggs bind the ingredients together for a perfect cohesive dish.
- Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess; substitute with whole milk for a lighter touch.
For the Flavor
- Dijon Mustard – This enhances flavor; any mustard can work in a pinch!
- Kosher Salt – Essential for balancing the dish’s flavors; adjust as per your taste.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground brings warmth and depth to the casserole.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Used for greasing the pan and enriching the béchamel sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the béchamel creating a luscious consistency.
- Whole Milk – Incorporates into the béchamel; any milk alternative can be used.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth; fresh is best but omit if you don’t have it.
For the Filling
- Shredded Gruyère Cheese – The key flavor component that makes this Croque Monsieur breakfast casserole so delightful; Swiss cheese can also substitute.
- Ham – Provides savory protein; consider using turkey ham for a lighter option.
For the Topping
- Shredded Gruyère Cheese – Adding it on top creates a gooey, irresistible finish.
Feel free to gather these ingredients before you dive into the preparation and enjoy the delicious journey of making this stunning breakfast casserole!
How to Make Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole
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Prep Bread: Begin by cutting your country-style bread into 1-inch cubes. Place these delightful little pieces in a greased baking dish, ensuring an even layer for the perfect foundation.
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Whisk Eggs: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs together with half-and-half, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pour this rich mixture evenly over the bread cubes, soaking them beautifully.
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Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking until it turns a lovely golden brown—this infuses a subtle nuttiness into your sauce.
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Make Sauce: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Add the ground nutmeg, then remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese until it melts into a creamy delight.
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Combine: Pour the cheese sauce over the soaked bread and egg mixture. Gently fold in the torn pieces of ham, ensuring every layer is full of flavor and goodness.
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Top and Refrigerate: Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese on top of the casserole. Be sure to cover the dish with foil, then refrigerate for at least an hour, or even overnight, to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the casserole for 30-40 minutes, or until it’s set and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving, allowing it to firm up for easier slicing.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like chives for an extra pop of flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole
- Flavor Infusion: Let it chill overnight: This allows all the flavors to blend harmoniously, enhancing the taste of your Croque Monsieur breakfast casserole.
- Bread Structure: Choose thick slices: Using country-style bread in thick pieces helps maintain structure and prevent sogginess.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with flavors: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to try a blend of cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Check for Doneness: Use a knife for testing: Insert a knife in the center of the casserole; it should come out clean when fully cooked, ensuring a perfectly baked dish.
- Cooling Time: Let it rest after baking: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes to make slicing easier and enhance its texture.
Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and make this comforting dish your own with these delightful twists!
- Vegetarian Swap: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vibrant, meat-free version that bursts with flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with various cheeses such as sharp cheddar or creamy fontina to give your casserole a unique twist.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or basil to impart a fragrant, garden-fresh taste into your casserole.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds!
- Breakfast Sausage: Swap out ham for cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage for a heartier, protein-packed meal that will please everyone.
- Layered Flavors: Incorporate roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for a sweet, rich flavor that elevates the dish beautifully.
- Nutty Upgrade: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy layers.
- Sweet Twist: For a brunch dessert vibe, add a bit of cinnamon and swap ham for sweet cooked apples—deliciously unexpected!
What to Serve with Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole?
The perfect brunch experience deserves delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of your casserole masterpiece.
- Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the casserole’s creaminess.
- Crispy Bacon: The smokiness of crispy bacon enhances the savory notes of the dish, inviting an explosion of flavor with each bite.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach drizzled with olive oil adds a nutritious, earthy element that perfectly contrasts the casserole’s richness.
- Roasted Tomatoes: Juicy, roasted tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to the savory ham and cheese.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful spread of seasonal fruits offers a sweet, juicy complement to round out your brunch experience. These juicy bites will cleanse the palate perfectly between savory morsels.
- Chilled Mimosas: This classic brunch beverage adds a sparkling touch to the table, enhancing the celebratory vibe of your meal with each fizzy sip.
- Dessert Pastries: Light pastries or croissants can add a touch of sweetness, making your brunch feel like a delightful Parisian getaway.
Elevate your brunch with these delicious companions and watch your guests savor every moment!
Make Ahead Options
These Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully during that time. To do this, simply prepare the dish up until the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. The casserole will still be just as delicious the next day, and its richness will only improve! When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown on top. This hassle-free method lets you enjoy a scrumptious brunch without the morning rush!
Storage Tips for Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the casserole before baking! Wrap it tightly in foil or use an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in a microwave or the oven until warmed through. For the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes to ensure it stays moist and delicious.
Make-Ahead: Perfect for meal prep! Assemble the Croque Monsieur breakfast casserole the night before, refrigerate, and simply bake in the morning for a hassle-free brunch.
Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for the casserole?
For the Croque Monsieur breakfast casserole, I recommend using country-style bread with a thick texture. This helps to maintain structure and prevents sogginess when soaking in the egg mixture. Thick slices create a wonderful base that holds up beautifully to the creamy béchamel sauce!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness and prevent any sogginess. You can enjoy it reheated in the oven for a delightful meal throughout the week!
Can I freeze the Croque Monsieur breakfast casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking it. Just wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake it as instructed—perfect for a make-ahead meal!
What should I do if my casserole is too soggy?
If you find your casserole turns out soggy, it may be due to using bread that wasn’t thick enough or if it was soaked for too long. Ensure you use sturdy, country-style bread and check that it’s not over-soaked in the egg mixture. Next time, try letting the casserole rest for the right amount of time, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid without excess soaking.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Certainly! To create a vegetarian version of the Croque Monsieur breakfast casserole, you can swap the ham for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Adding a blend of cheeses or some fresh herbs will elevate the flavor even further. It’s a delicious way to cater to all guests!
Irresistible Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole to Wow Your Brunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting your country-style bread into 1-inch cubes. Place these delightful little pieces in a greased baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs together with half-and-half, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture thickens. Add the ground nutmeg, then remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the soaked bread mixture. Gently fold in the torn pieces of ham.
- Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese on top, cover with foil and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.