Have you ever craved a sandwich that’s both savory and sweet, crispy and gooey? Then let me introduce you to my version of the Monte Cristo Sandwich, inspired by the famous Bennigan’s recipe! It’s piled high with ham, turkey, and cheese, dipped in batter, and fried to golden perfection1. Trust me; every bite is a burst of flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Sandwich
- Taste Sensation: The combination of savory meats, melted cheese, and a slightly sweet, crispy batter is simply irresistible1.
- Easy to Make: Using a store-bought pancake batter makes this recipe quick and simple1.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for a weekend brunch, lunch, or even a fun dinner1.
- Nostalgic: If you’ve ever been to Bennigan’s, this sandwich will bring back those wonderful memories1.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 3 sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sandwiches
- 9 slices honey wheat bread1
- 9 slices roasted turkey, deli meat (thick cut preferred)1
- 9 slices honey ham, deli meat (thick cut preferred)12
- 3 slices mild cheddar cheese1
- 3 slices Swiss cheese1
For the Batter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour1
- 2 tablespoons baking powder12
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt12
- 2 ⅔ cups water1
- 2 large eggs, beaten12
- Vegetable or canola oil, for deep frying12
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar12
For the Dipping Sauce
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Prepare the sandwiches: On six slices of bread, layer turkey and Swiss cheese on three slices, and ham and American cheese on the other three2.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Create triple-decker sandwiches by layering the turkey/Swiss slice, a plain bread slice, and then the ham/American slice2.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, water, and eggs until smooth12. You can also use store-bought pancake batter for a quicker option1.
- Heat the oil: Pour canola or vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large pot and heat to 350°F (175°C)1.
- Dip and fry: Dip each sandwich into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated2. Carefully place the battered sandwich into the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown2.
- Drain and dust: Remove the fried sandwich and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil2. Dust generously with confectioners’ sugar1.
- Serve: Cut the sandwich in half or into quarters, and serve immediately with raspberry preserves and honey mustard for dipping12.
Tips for the Perfect Monte Cristo
- Bread: I love using honey wheat bread for its slight sweetness, but feel free to use your favorite type of bread1.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or provolone for a unique flavor3.
- Batter Consistency: Make sure the batter is smooth and not too thick. If it’s too thick, add a little more water1.
- Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior2.
- Don’t overcrowd: Fry one sandwich at a time to prevent the oil temperature from dropping2.
Customize Your Monte Cristo
- Lighter Version: Try baking the sandwich instead of deep-frying to reduce the oil content3.
- Different Spreads: Instead of honey mustard, try Dijon mustard or a garlic aioli3.
- Add Some Spice: A dash of cayenne pepper in the batter can add a nice kick3.
- Breakfast Twist: Add a fried egg to the sandwich for a breakfast Monte Cristo.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
- I recommend making the sandwiches fresh for the best taste and texture. However, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to dip and fry.
Can I bake the sandwiches instead of frying?
- Yes! Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Dip the sandwiches in the batter and bake on a lightly oiled baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown3.
What if I don’t have raspberry preserves?
- Any sweet jam or jelly will work! Strawberry, blackberry, or even a jalapeno jelly can be delicious3.
Nutritional Information (Estimate)
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 60-80g
- Protein: 30-40g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
