Classic Monte Cristo Sandwich

Savory and sweet ham and cheese sandwich with a twist.

A delicious Monte Cristo sandwich made with ham, cheese, mustard, and mayonnaise, dipped in egg, and cooked like French toast. Perfect for using up leftover ham.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 2

Full Ingredient List

  • 2 eggs
  • Pinches of salt and pepper
  • 4 slices sturdy white bread
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 pound thick sliced baked ham
  • 1/2 ounce shredded gruyere cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Sandwich Assembly

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
4 slices White bread sturdy variety, or preferred type
2 tablespoons Yellow mustard
2 tablespoons Mayonnaise
1/2 pound Baked ham thick sliced
1/2 ounce Gruyere cheese shredded

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place two slices of white bread on a flat surface. Spread mustard on one slice and mayonnaise on the other.
  2. Step 2: Add thin slices of ham and shredded gruyere cheese on top of the mustard. Cover with the other slice of bread.
  3. Step 3: Slightly compress the sandwich.

Cooking

Tools and Equipment

  • nonstick pan
  • shallow bowl

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
2 Eggs beaten
2 tablespoons Butter

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Beat eggs in a shallow dish along with a few pinches of salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat skillet over medium heat. Add butter and allow it to melt. (Tips: Ensure the skillet is preheated for even cooking.)
  3. Step 3: Dip the assembled sandwich in the beaten eggs, coating both sides. (Tips: Do not soak for too long to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.)
  4. Step 4: Place the sandwich in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and the cheese has melted. (Tips: Cook until you reach your preferred level of browning.)

Additional Information

Notes: For a sweet twist, serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a side of preserves. Optional additions like honey or hot pepper jelly can enhance flavor.

Background: A Monte Cristo is a variation of the French Croque-monsieur, combining the flavors of ham, cheese, and egg in a creative breakfast or lunch option.

Geographic Region: American

Seasonality: Year-round

Occasion: Brunch

Recommended Pairings

  • Raspberry preserves
  • Powdered sugar dusting
  • Maple syrup

Tags

sandwich breakfast lunch dinner ham cheese french toast American fusion easy quick savory sweet