When it comes to breakfast or brunch dishes, few recipes can rival the elegance and indulgence of a Croque Monsieur. This casserole version takes the classic French sandwich and transforms it into a crowd-pleasing bake that’s perfect for feeding a group. With layers of buttery sourdough English muffins, savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and a rich cream sauce, this dish is as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply craving something decadent, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Gathering Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
The beauty of this casserole lies in its thoughtful combination of ingredients, each contributing something unique to the final product. At its base are sourdough English muffins, cut into cubes and toasted until golden brown. These cubes provide a sturdy yet tender foundation that absorbs the creamy egg mixture without becoming soggy.
Deli-sliced ham adds a savory, salty element that pairs beautifully with the nutty richness of Swiss or Gruyère cheese. The grated cheese melts into gooey pockets throughout the casserole, creating a luxurious texture that ties everything together. Dijon mustard brings a subtle tanginess, while freshly grated Parmesan adds a finishing touch of umami and depth.
The star of the show, however, is the cream sauce. Made with butter, flour, milk, and a hint of nutmeg, this velvety topping elevates the dish to new heights. Broiling the casserole with the sauce creates a bubbly, golden crust that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Preparing the Dish: A Step-by-Step Journey
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how methodical and rewarding the process feels. It starts with preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing a baking dish. In a large bowl, I toss cubed English muffins with melted butter and Dijon mustard, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. These cubes are then spread out on a baking sheet and toasted in the oven until lightly browned—about 12 to 14 minutes.
While the bread toasts, I whisk together eggs, half-and-half, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. This custard-like mixture will soak into the bread, creating a soft, creamy texture once baked.
Next, I layer half of the toasted bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, followed by pieces of folded ham and a generous sprinkling of grated Swiss cheese. I repeat this process with the remaining bread, ham, and cheese, pouring the egg mixture over the top and gently pressing down to ensure most of the bread is submerged. The casserole is then left to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid and the flavors to meld.
As the casserole bakes, I prepare the cream sauce. In a saucepan, I melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour to create a roux, and cook for about a minute. Slowly adding milk while whisking constantly ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. Once thickened, I season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, letting it simmer for a few more minutes before removing it from the heat.
After the casserole has baked for 45 to 50 minutes, I turn on the broiler and pour the cream sauce over the top, sprinkling it with grated Parmesan. Broiling for an additional 3 minutes creates a golden-brown crust that’s perfectly bubbly and aromatic. Letting the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving ensures clean slices and maximizes the flavor experience.
Why This Recipe Works: Layers of Comfort
What sets this Croque Monsieur Casserole apart is its ability to balance rich, savory flavors with creamy textures. The toasted English muffins provide a satisfying crunch, while the egg mixture and cream sauce create a luscious, custard-like consistency. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of ham, cheese, and herbs that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Another reason this recipe shines is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out the Swiss cheese for Gruyère or Emmental for a different flavor profile, or add extras like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for added depth. It’s adaptable enough to accommodate various tastes while still delivering big on flavor.
Tips for Success: Making the Most of Your Casserole
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that help ensure success every time I make this dish. First, don’t skip toasting the English muffin cubes—it adds texture and prevents the casserole from becoming soggy. Additionally, take care not to overmix the egg mixture; whisking until just combined ensures a light and airy consistency.
Secondly, resist the urge to rush the standing time. Allowing the casserole to rest for 30 minutes before baking ensures the bread absorbs the liquid evenly, resulting in a cohesive bake. If you’re short on time, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight, letting it come to room temperature before baking.
Lastly, keep an eye on the casserole during the broiling step. The cream sauce can go from golden brown to overly browned in a matter of seconds, so stay close to the oven to avoid burning.
Sharing the Joy: Bringing People Together
There’s something inherently communal about casseroles, and this recipe is no exception. Whether I’m serving it during a holiday brunch or whipping it up for a casual weekend breakfast, it always draws people to the table. One of my favorite memories involving this dish happened during a family gathering. As the casserole emerged from the oven, the room filled with murmurs of anticipation. By the time everyone had their plates, the table buzzed with laughter and compliments. Someone even asked if I’d share the recipe!
Moments like these remind me why cooking is such a joy—it’s not just about feeding people but also about creating connections and memories. This casserole, with its comforting flavors and nostalgic vibes, has a way of doing just that.
Final Thoughts: A Recipe Worth Repeating
If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this article, it’s that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of quality ingredients and a bit of effort, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. This Croque Monsieur Casserole has earned a permanent spot in my repertoire, and I have no doubt it will do the same for you.
So the next time you’re looking for a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing, give this recipe a try. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd of friends, I guarantee it will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even the recipe itself. After all, great food has a way of bringing people together, and isn’t that what cooking is all about?
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Based on 10 servings:
Calories: 906
Total Fat: 52g (67% DV)
Saturated Fat: 28g (140% DV)
Cholesterol: 240mg (80% DV)
Sodium: 1200mg (52% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 80g (29% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% DV)
Total Sugars: 8g
Protein: 30g (60% DV)
Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
Calcium: 400mg (31% DV)
Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.