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Monte Cristo Sandwich

5 from 1 vote
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posted: 06/08/25

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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

There is nothing quite so delicious as a Monte Cristo Sandwich. It is made with really simple ingredients, but it is out of this world.

side view of stack of Monte Cristo Sandwiches cut in half

If you’ve never had a Monte Cristo Sandwich before (an Americanized version of a Croque Monsieur), it is like a combination of French toast and a grilled cheese sandwich, with ham and turkey thrown in. It is often topped with powdered sugar and served with strawberry or raspberry jam. Honestly, it is truly amazing and truly easy to make.

Overhead view of ingredients for Monte Cristo Sandwich recipe on countertop.

Monte Cristo Sandwich Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the classic ingredients that make up a Monte Cristo sandwich. For the full recipe, including all ingredients and their measurements, be sure to scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

  • Sandwich bread: Look for a sturdy white or wheat bread that holds up to the dipping and frying process while still soft and fluffy on the inside.
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise: I like to use light mayo, which is what I usually have on hand.
  • Ham: Thinly-sliced deli ham adds protein and salty flavor to the sandwich. This is a great recipe to use up leftover ham.
  • Turkey
  • Cheese: My go-to for this sandwich is shredded gruyere cheese, but Swiss cheese, Havarti, and cheddar are all great alternatives.
  • Eggs: Create a batter to coat the sandwich before cooking, like in French toast.
  • Milk: Combines with the eggs to make a custard-like batter.

How to Make a Monte Cristo Sandwich

Step 1: Add the Mayo and The Mustard

Spread two slices of bread with the mayonnaise and two slices of bread with the mustard, like in the photo below.

Step 2: Add the Meat and Cheese

Add a slice of turkey on top of each slice that has mayonnaise on it. Then top the turkey with a slice of ham. Finally, top each slice of ham with shredded gruyere. Place the slice of bread prepared with mustard on top of the cheese so that the mustard side is connected to the cheese.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. Dip the prepared sandwiches into the egg mixture so that both sides of the sandwich are coated in the egg mixture.

monte cristo sandwich being dipped in an egg batter

Step 4: Cook the Sandwich

Melt butter in a large skillet and add the sandwiches, cooking for five to six minutes on each side so that it is golden brown.

Pro Tip!

I like to add a dusting of powdered sugar to the top of the cooked sandwich for a touch of sweetness and serve it with a side of strawberry or raspberry jam for dipping. It adds an unexpected yet delicious flavor.

Person's hand dipping half of a Monte Cristo Sandwich into a small dish of sauce.

What to Serve With Monte Cristo Sandwiches

  • Easy French Fries: Fries with a sandwich are always a good idea. If you want to mix it up a little make my sweet potato fries.
  • Arugula Salad: This light salad pairs perfectly with this delicious sandwich.
  • Fruit Salad: Given how well savory and sweet come together in this sandwich, a sweet fruit salad is the perfect side.

If you make this Monte Cristo sandwich recipe or any of my other recipes, I’d love to hear what you think! Be sure to come back and leave a comment letting me know how you enjoyed it.

side view of stack of Monte Cristo Sandwiches cut in half
5 from 1 vote

Monte Cristo Sandwich

Serves: 2 servings
(tap # to scale)
Prep: 3 minutes
Cook: 12 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
There is nothing quite so delicious as a Monte Cristo Sandwich. It is made with really simple ingredients, but it is out of this world.

Ingredients

  • 4 slices sandwich bread look for a sturdy white or wheat bread
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 2 slices deli ham
  • 2 slices deli turkey
  • 2 ounces gruyere cheese shredded (Swiss, Havarti, and cheddar are all great alternatives)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • powdered sugar
  • strawberry jam or raspberry jam

Instructions

  • Spread 2 slices of bread with the mayonnaise and 2 slices of bread with the mustard.
    4 slices sandwich bread, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon mustard
  • Add a slice of turkey on top of each slice that has mayonnaise on it. Then top the turkey with a slice of ham. Finally, top each slice of ham with 1 1/2 ounces shredded gruyere. Place the slice of bread prepared with mustard on top of the cheese, mustard side connecting to the cheese.
    2 slices deli ham, 2 slices deli turkey, 2 ounces gruyere cheese
  • In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. Dip the prepared sandwiches into the egg mixture so that both sides of the sandwich are coated in the egg mixture.
    4 large eggs, 1/4 cup milk
  • Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Melt the butter in it. Add the sandwiches and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, covered, on each side.
    1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Remove the sandwich and top with powdered sugar and a side of strawberry or raspberry jam if desired.
    powdered sugar, strawberry jam
Author: Lisa Longley
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
side view of stack of Monte Cristo Sandwiches cut in half

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Monte Cristo Sandwich

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Hi! I'm Lisa Longley, and I am committed to giving you simple dinner ideas and recipes that are easy to make; recipes that will fill your home with joy. I am the owner and author of SimpleJoy.com and I'm so glad that you are here.

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    5 from 1 vote

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  1. Helen says

    5 stars
    I made this sandwich I only made one as I live alone but I’m making another for dinner that’ how good it is, loved it

    • Lisa Longley says

      I’m so glad you loved it as much as I do!

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