This Monte Cristo sandwich is golden, buttery, sweet-and-savory perfection. Thick slices of bread get stacked with ham, roasted turkey and Swiss cheese, dipped in an egg and milk custard like French toast, then griddled in butter until crispy and melty. A dusting of powdered sugar and a side of raspberry jam for dipping make this classic Monte Cristo unforgettable.

It is part grilled cheese, part French toast and all delicious. More Sandwich Sunday favorites: Turkey Club Melt Sandwich and Homemade Reuben Sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Monte Cristo Sandwich

Sweet and savory in every bite.
French toast style crispy, buttery exterior.
Ham, turkey and melty Swiss stacked high.
Ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients for a Monte Cristo Sandwich

The Sandwich

Thick white bread or brioche, deli ham, roasted turkey, Swiss cheese, mayo and Dijon mustard.

The Egg Dip

An egg, milk, a pinch of salt and black pepper.

To Finish

Butter for the pan, powdered sugar for dusting and raspberry jam for dipping.

Swap note: Use gluten-free bread for gluten free. Challah or sourdough also work in place of brioche.

How to Make a Monte Cristo Sandwich

Step 1: Prep the bread

Cut the crusts off the bread and spread mayo and Dijon on one side of each slice.

Step 2: Stack it

Layer bread, Swiss, ham, turkey, bread, turkey, ham, Swiss and the final slice of bread.

Step 3: Make the egg dip

Whisk the egg, milk, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl.

Step 4: Dip and cook

Melt plenty of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip both sides of the sandwich in the egg mixture, then cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden and the cheese is melted, pressing gently.

Step 5: Finish and serve

Dust with powdered sugar, slice in half and serve warm with raspberry jam.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Use brioche for a richer, softer sandwich.
Don’t over-soak. A quick dip keeps the bread from getting soggy.
Press gently while cooking to seal the layers together.
Medium heat melts the cheese before the outside burns.

Make It Your Own

Strawberry jam: Swap the raspberry jam for strawberry or fig.
Gruyère: Use Gruyère instead of Swiss.
Baked: Bake on a buttered sheet at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping once.
Mini: Cut into quarters for brunch party bites.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Assemble the sandwich up to a few hours ahead and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Dip and cook right before serving.

What to Serve With a Monte Cristo

Serve with fresh berries, a simple green salad or kettle chips, and plenty of jam for dipping.

Storing and Reheating

A Monte Cristo is best served right away.

Reheat leftovers in a skillet or air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes.

What People Ask About Monte Cristo Sandwich

What is a Monte Cristo sandwich?

A ham, turkey and Swiss sandwich dipped in egg and fried like French toast, usually served with powdered sugar and jam.

What bread is best for a Monte Cristo?

Thick white bread or brioche, though challah and sourdough also work.

Why is a Monte Cristo served with jam?

The sweet jam balances the salty meat and cheese.

Can I bake a Monte Cristo?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway.