Monte Cristo Style Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Introduction

The Monte Cristo Style Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Combining savory ham and Swiss cheese with a lightly battered exterior, it’s a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. Enjoy this warm, satisfying sandwich for a comforting meal any time of day.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of Sara Lee® Artesano™ Bread
• 1 tsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp grainy mustard
• 2 – 3 oz smoked deli ham, sliced, room temperature
• 2 slices Swiss cheese, room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 1 TBSP half and half
• 1/2 TBSP butter
• Powdered sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Spread mayonnaise on one side of one slice of bread and grainy mustard on one side of the other slice. Place the slices with the spread sides facing up.
2. Step 2: Top each slice of bread with a slice of Swiss cheese.
3. Step 3: Place the smoked ham on top of the Swiss cheese on one of the slices, then assemble the sandwich by bringing the two slices together.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, beat the egg and half and half together until well combined.
5. Step 5: Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the butter, swirling it to coat the pan. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, quickly dip the sandwich in the egg mixture, coating all sides.
6. Step 6: Place the coated sandwich in the skillet and cook until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted.
7. Step 7: Serve warm with an optional sprinkle of powdered sugar and strawberry preserves if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
• Substitute Dijon mustard for grainy mustard if you prefer a smoother texture.
• For a sweeter touch, try adding a thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam inside the sandwich before assembling.
• Serve with fresh fruit or a side salad to balance the richness of the sandwich.

Storage

Store any leftover sandwich wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crisp and cheese melted. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?

Yes, you can use sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or sourdough for a different flavor or texture, but make sure they hold up well when dipped in the egg mixture.

Is it necessary to dip the sandwich in the egg mixture?

Dipping the sandwich in the egg mixture creates a crispy, golden exterior reminiscent of a Monte Cristo. You can skip this step for a simpler grilled cheese, but the unique texture will be missing.

Monte Cristo Style Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 145 reviews

A delicious Monte Cristo style grilled cheese sandwich featuring smoked ham and Swiss cheese, dipped in an egg batter and pan-fried to golden perfection. Served warm and optionally dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet-savory treat.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.
• Cook Time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.
• Total Time: 00 hrs. 20 mins.
• Yield: 1 serving 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread and Spreads

• 2 slices of Sara Lee® Artesano™ Bread
• 1 tsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp grainy mustard

Sandwich Fillings

• 2 – 3 oz smoked deli ham, sliced, room temperature
• 2 slices Swiss cheese, room temperature

Batter and Cooking

• 1 large egg
• 1 TBSP half and half
• 1/2 TBSP butter

Optional Garnishes

• Powdered sugar, for sprinkling
• Strawberry preserves, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Bread with Spreads: Spread mayonnaise on one side of one slice of bread and spread grainy mustard on one side of the other slice of bread, ensuring the spreads face upward.
2. Add Cheese: Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each bread slice with spreads.
3. Assemble Sandwich: Layer the smoked deli ham onto the Swiss cheese on one slice, then place the other cheese-topped slice on top, forming the sandwich with spread sides facing in.
4. Make Egg Batter: In a small bowl, beat together the large egg and half and half until fully combined and smooth.
5. Heat Skillet: Warm a small skillet over medium heat and add the butter, swirling it to coat the pan as it melts and begins to bubble.
6. Dip Sandwich: Quickly dip the assembled sandwich into the egg batter, coating the entire exterior evenly without soaking it to sogginess.
7. Cook Sandwich: Place the dipped sandwich in the hot skillet and cook until the bottom is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip and cook the other side until similarly golden and the cheese melts, another 3-4 minutes.
8. Serve: Remove from skillet and serve warm. Optionally sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with strawberry preserves for a classic Monte Cristo experience.

Notes

• Using room temperature ham and cheese ensures even melting and flavor.
• Do not soak the sandwich too long in the egg batter to prevent sogginess.
• Adjust cooking time slightly based on your skillet and stove for perfect browning.
• Powdered sugar and strawberry preserves enhance the sweet-savory contrast of this dish but are optional.

Keywords: Monte Cristo sandwich, grilled cheese, ham and cheese sandwich, pan-fried sandwich, savory sandwich, breakfast sandwich