A deliciously indulgent sandwich with layers of turkey, ham, and melted cheese, all coated in a light egg mixture and fried to a golden crisp, perfect for lunch or a special treat!
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs (beaten until frothy)
- ¼ cup Half and Half or whole milk
Fats
- 3 tablespoons butter (for frying)
Breads
- 12 slices of sturdy white bread (thicker slices recommended)
Condiments
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- Mustard (optional, Dijon or spicy brown)
- Red currant jelly or blackberry jam (optional, for dipping)
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
Proteins
- ¼ lb. deli sliced turkey (oven-roasted preferred)
- ¼ lb. deli sliced ham (Black Forest or Virginia ham recommended)
Cheese
- 8 slices Gruyère or Swiss cheese (or unsmoked Provolone as a substitute)
Directions
- Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth and well combined. - Cooking Preparation
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the skillet is evenly coated to prevent sticking. - Assembling the Sandwiches
- Start by placing four slices of bread on a cutting board. Top each with a slice of cheese and a portion of ham.
- Spread about ½ tablespoon of mayonnaise on one side of another four slices of bread. Place these slices, mayonnaise side down, on top of the ham.
- Spread another ½ tablespoon of mayonnaise on the top side of these bread slices. Add sliced turkey and another slice of cheese.
- Finish by placing the last four slices of bread on top. Press the sandwiches slightly to adhere the layers together.
- Dipping and Frying
- Dip each assembled sandwich briefly into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are lightly coated but not saturated.
- Place the sandwiches in the hot skillet. Fry until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, then flip carefully to cook the other side.
- Serving
- Cut each sandwich in half.
- Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) for a touch of sweetness.
- Serve with red currant jelly or blackberry jam on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Bread Choice: Use thicker slices of bread to help absorb the egg mixture without disintegrating.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Provolone for a unique flavor.
- Additional Condiments: Add mustard to the mayonnaise for an extra flavor kick.
Enjoy this classic Monte Cristo Sandwich, with its crispy golden exterior and gooey, savory filling!