Monte Cristo One-Pan Bake

 

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Monte Cristo One-Pan Bake

A twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, this one-pan bake combines the sweet flavours of French toast with ham and cheese. Whether you are planning a casual meal with the family or a fancy brunch with friends, this version of the “French Sandwich” will surely have your guests asking for seconds. 
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 358kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
  • 1 Large French Baguette, sliced into 21 slices
  • 7 slices Deli Ham, cut into halves length-wise
  • 2 1/3 cups Shredded Gruyere Cheese, Divided
  • 5 Eggs
  • 1/2 cup 2% Milk
  • 1/8 tsp Salt and Pepper (each)
  • Icing Sugar and Preserves (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190⁰C). Lightly grease a 13 x 9- inch (3 L) baking dish.

    In a small bowl, combine mustard and mayonnaise; spread on one side of each baguette slice.

      Place prepared baking dish on counter, with the shortest side facing you. Working from the top of dish, place 3 baguette slices (mustard side up), slightly propped up along the short side of the dish. Sprinkle with a ⅓ cup (75 mL) of cheese and top with 2 slices ham, overlapping (1 full slice per row). Prop the next slices of bread up against the ham and continue to layer until no ingredients remain. You should have 7 rows in total.

        In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Add salt and pepper; mix well. Pour evenly over contents in baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes.

          Uncover and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot with traditional Monte Cristo accompaniments, icing sugar and preserves, if desired.

            Notes

            Tip: Substitute Swiss cheese for Gruyere for a lighter flavour. 
            Tip: Baguettes at your local grocery store can range in length. Look for a baguette that is 19 to 22 inches (48 to 56 cm) long. 
            Nutrients per serving (⅛ recipe): 358 calories, 18 g total fat, 8 g saturated fat, 720 mg sodium, 27 g carbohydrates, 1 g fibre, 22g protein