Monte Cristo Sandwich (Printable)

Ham and cheese sandwich dipped in egg batter, pan-fried golden, dusted with powdered sugar for sweet-savory flavor.

# What You Need:

→ Bread

01 - 8 slices white sandwich bread

→ Filling

02 - 8 slices deli ham
03 - 8 slices Swiss cheese
04 - 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional)

→ Egg Batter

05 - 3 large eggs
06 - 1/2 cup whole milk
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ For Frying

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

→ Garnish

11 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
12 - Raspberry preserves or jam (optional, for serving)

# How To Make It:

01 - Lay out all bread slices on a clean surface. Spread Dijon mustard evenly on 4 slices if using the mustard option.
02 - Arrange 2 ham slices and 2 Swiss cheese slices on each mustard-covered bread slice. Top with remaining bread slices to create 4 complete sandwiches.
03 - Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl until thoroughly combined and smooth.
04 - Melt butter with vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
05 - Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, turning to ensure both bread surfaces are thoroughly coated.
06 - Place coated sandwiches in the heated skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese has melted completely.
07 - Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute. Cut each sandwich diagonally in half.
08 - Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately. Offer raspberry preserves alongside for dipping if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The magical combination of savory ham and Swiss cheese against sweet powdered sugar creates that perfect sweet-salty balance we all secretly crave
  • These come together so quickly that they've saved many lazy weekend lunches when takeout felt like too much effort
02 -
  • Don't skip the resting time after frying or the steam trapped inside will make your perfectly crisp sandwiches go soggy within minutes
  • The butter and oil combination is crucial because oil raises the smoking point while butter contributes the golden color and flavor
03 -
  • Pressing gently with your spatula while frying helps the cheese melt evenly and creates better contact with the pan for superior browning
  • If your bread is fresh, let the assembled sandwiches sit uncovered for 15 minutes before dipping so they develop a slight surface dryness
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