The Monte Cristo Sandwich is essentially the best ham and cheese sandwich you'll ever have, combining the indulgence of French toast with the savory comfort of a grilled cheese. It’s a delicious cross between a meaty grilled cheese and French toast, traditionally made with ham and Swiss cheese, but often featuring turkey and other sliced meats as well. This sandwich is essentially America’s answer to the classic French Croque Monsieur, gaining popularity in mid-20th century Southern California.
The Origins and Appeal of the Monte Cristo
The origins of the Monte Cristo sandwich are debated. Many believe it evolved from the Croque Monsieur, a classic French deli item of ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce. Unlike the Croque Monsieur, the Monte Cristo is dipped in an egg batter and pan-fried or deep-fried until golden and melty. An early recipe even appears in the Brown Derby Cookbook from 1949, where it was served as a triple-decker sandwich with ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
This sandwich strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors. Often served with powdered sugar and jelly or preserves, it works perfectly for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Its layers of melted cheese, tender ham, and custard-soaked bread combine for an indulgent and comforting meal.
Key Ingredients of a Monte Cristo Sandwich
- Bread: Typically farmhouse-style white bread, brioche, or challah sliced about ½-inch thick. Artisan sourdough yields a crunchier crust, while sandwich bread offers a softer, gooier center.
- Meat: Ham is classic, usually deli Black Forest or Virginia ham. Leftover holiday ham and turkey can also be combined for added flavor and heartiness.
- Cheese: Swiss, Gruyère, Emmental, or Jarlsberg are commonly used for their excellent melting qualities.
- Egg Custard: A mixture of eggs, milk, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg to soak the sandwich before frying.
- Butter and Oil: For frying, a combination of butter and vegetable oil creates a rich flavor and a higher smoke point to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Condiments: Mayonnaise and Dijon mustard can be spread on the bread for added flavor. Sweet-tart red currant jelly, raspberry jam, or preserves served on the side for dipping or smeared inside add a sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors.
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting on top after cooking is traditional and enhances the sweet and savory harmony.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Monte Cristo Sandwich
- Prepare the Bread: Lightly butter one side of two slices of bread, and both sides of the third slice for a triple-decker sandwich. Optionally spread Dijon mustard on one unbuttered side and jam or jelly on the other slice.
- Layer the Sandwich: Start layering with cheese on the mustard side of the bread, then add ham, place the fully buttered middle slice, then turkey, more cheese, and finish with the jam-side down slice. Start and end with cheese to help the sandwich hold together when melted.
- Weight the Assembly: Wrap the sandwich loosely in plastic wrap or wax paper and press with a grill press or skillet for 3-5 minutes to compact it slightly, aiding even cooking.
- Make the Egg Custard: In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and nutmeg together until smooth.
- Dip the Sandwich: Carefully dip the sandwich into the custard, allowing some liquid to absorb into the bread but not so much that it falls apart.
- Fry the Sandwich: Heat butter and oil in a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium heat (around 350°F). Cook the sandwich 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Drain Excess Butter: Remove sandwich and drain on paper towels to soak up residual butter.
- Serve: Slice the sandwich in half and serve with warmed jelly or preserves on the side for dipping. Optionally dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Tips for the Perfect Monte Cristo
- You can use whatever bread you have on hand, but avoid very airy white breads as they tend to fall apart.
- Add both ham and turkey for a richer flavor and more protein variety.
- Thinly slice leftover meats or request thin deli slices for even cooking.
- Lighter buttering of the bread crusts keeps them from getting overly greasy while maintaining crispness.
- Use European-style butter like Kerrygold or Plugra for a richer flavor and better browning.
- If preparing ahead, wrap sandwiches in foil and refrigerate up to 1-2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or air fryer for best results.
Monte Cristo sandwiches are a wonderful way to elevate simple deli meats and cheese, transforming everyday ingredients into a comforting, elegant meal. Whether for a festive holiday brunch, a satisfying lunch, or a decadent dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.