If you’re looking for a dish that brings back warm memories of cozy diners, then this Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat} is just the ticket! It’s like a hug between two slices of bread, filled with delicious layers of turkey and chicken ham, topped off with melty cheese. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only incredibly tasty but also perfect for a family gathering or a busy weeknight dinner. It’s quick to whip up, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

This sandwich is a delightful mix of sweet and savory, especially when paired with raspberry preserves for dipping. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or simply want to treat yourself after a long day, this Monte Cristo is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, you can have this delicious sandwich ready in no time!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors—perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making weeknight meals stress-free.
Deliciously Indulgent: The crispy exterior and cheesy filling make for an irresistible comfort food experience.
Fun Sweet Dip: Pairing it with raspberry preserves adds a fun twist that elevates the meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering Monte Cristo Sandwich! These are easy-to-find items that you might already have in your kitchen.

For the Sandwich

9 slices honey wheat bread
9 slices roasted turkey (we prefer a thick cut)
9 slices honey chicken ham (we prefer a thick cut)
3 slices mild cheddar cheese
3 slices Swiss cheese

For the Batter

3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 ⅔ cups water
2 large eggs, beaten

For Frying and Serving

vegetable or canola oil, for deep frying
½ cup (62.5 g) confectioners’ sugar
red raspberry preserves, for dipping
honey mustard, optional for dipping

Variations

The beauty of this Monte Cristo Sandwich is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or even roast beef instead of turkey or ham for a different flavor profile.
Change the cheese: Experiment with your favorite cheeses like provolone or gouda to switch things up!
Add some veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or avocado slices for added nutrition and flavor.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}

Step 1: Prepare the Sandwich

Start by layering your sandwich. Take three slices of honey wheat bread and stack them up. On the bottom slice, add a layer of roasted turkey followed by honey chicken ham and then top it off with cheddar and Swiss cheese. Finish by placing another slice of bread on top. Repeat until you have three sandwiches assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add water while stirring until you achieve a smooth batter. Then fold in the beaten eggs; this will give your sandwiches that wonderful fluffy texture once fried.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat about an inch of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. To test if it’s ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—it should sizzle immediately!

Step 4: Fry the Sandwiches

Carefully dip each assembled sandwich into the batter until fully coated. Gently place it into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on one side (about 3-5 minutes), then flip carefully to cook on the other side until perfectly crispy.

Step 5: Serve Them Up!

Once they’re done frying, remove your sandwiches from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Dust them lightly with confectioners’ sugar for that classic touch! Serve warm with red raspberry preserves on the side—or drizzle honey mustard if you’re feeling adventurous!

Enjoy your homemade Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat} as they bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}

Creating the perfect Monte Cristo Sandwich is a delightful journey, and with a few tips, you can elevate your sandwich-making game to the next level!

Use thick-cut deli meats: Opting for thicker slices of turkey and honey chicken ham ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful, preventing the meats from getting lost in the bread.
Let the batter rest: Allowing your batter to sit for about 10 minutes before dipping the sandwiches gives it time to aerate, resulting in a lighter, crispier coating when fried.
Monitor oil temperature: Keeping your frying oil at 350°F (175°C) helps ensure that the sandwiches cook evenly and don’t soak up too much oil, making them greasy.
Experiment with cheeses: While we recommend mild cheddar and Swiss, feel free to mix and match other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist that suits your taste buds.
Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve your Monte Cristo Sandwich right after frying while it’s still warm and crispy. This way, you maintain that perfect crunch!

How to Serve Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}

Presenting your Monte Cristo Sandwich beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this delicious dish that’ll impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant touch and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Lemon wedges: Adding lemon wedges not only enhances presentation but also provides a zesty contrast when squeezed over the sandwich.

Side Dishes

Crispy sweet potato fries: These sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also add a colorful contrast to your plate. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory sandwich!
Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the Monte Cristo.
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, making it an excellent companion. The coolness of coleslaw will also provide a nice contrast to the warm sandwich.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Monte Cristo Sandwich! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Monte Cristo Sandwich recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious sandwiches anytime. You can easily make them ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat from frozen, remove the wrapping and place the sandwich on a baking sheet.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For refrigerated sandwiches, simply microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making the Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}:

Can I use different types of cheese for the Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Swiss are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for a twist on flavor.

What can I serve with the Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}?

These sandwiches pair beautifully with a side of fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even some crispy onion rings for a complete meal experience!

How do I ensure my Monte Cristo Sandwich comes out crispy?

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. A temperature around 350°F (175°C) will create a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside perfectly melted.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before using as it may thicken overnight.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Monte Cristo Sandwich {Bennigan’s Copycat}. It’s not only a comforting dish but also an easy way to bring smiles around the dinner table. Enjoy every crispy bite and don’t hesitate to share your delicious creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!