Blackstone Monte Cristo Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

The Blackstone Monte Cristo Sandwich is a brilliant, indulgent twist on the classic diner favorite, cooked to crispy, golden perfection on your Blackstone griddle. The combination of savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy mustard, and the sweetness of raspberry jam is irresistible. The best part? It’s so easy to make, and the griddle ensures the bread is perfectly crisp on the outside while staying soft and warm on the inside. This recipe is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Blackstone Monte Cristo Sandwich Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• Egg Wash:
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/3 cup half-and-half
• 12 pieces of white bread (or any preferred bread, such as sourdough or challah)
• 2 tablespoons mayo
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 18 thin slices Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• 2 pounds deli thin-sliced ham
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Raspberry jam (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Ingredients

1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-low heat.
2. In a large shallow dish, whisk together eggs and half-and-half to make the egg wash.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Sandwich Fillings

1. Take the bread slices and dip one side of each slice in the egg wash. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, egg side down.
2. Spread 1 teaspoon of mayo on one slice of bread and 1 teaspoon of mustard on the other slice of bread for each sandwich.
3. On the mayo side, place one slice of cheese. Evenly distribute the ham across all 12 slices of bread.
4. Place the remaining 6 slices of cheese on one half of each sandwich, so each sandwich will have three pieces of cheese in total.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Close the sandwiches by marrying the bread halves together, with the cheese and ham in the middle.

Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Generously butter the Blackstone griddle to ensure a golden crisp crust.
2. Place the assembled sandwiches on the griddle. Use a large spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches and then cover with a lid or dome to help cook them through.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is browned and the egg wash has set. Flip the sandwiches over and cook the other side, covered, for an additional 3-4 minutes until browned and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the griddle and dust generously with powdered sugar.
2. Serve immediately with a side of raspberry jam for dipping and enjoy the sweet-savory goodness!

Tips & Tricks

• Bread Options: You can use any bread, but thicker slices like challah or brioche will give you an extra soft and rich texture.
• Griddle Heat: Medium-low heat is crucial to getting the bread golden and crispy without burning the egg wash.
• Pressing the Sandwiches: Press down gently with a spatula to help the sandwiches cook evenly and meld the cheese and ham together. Be careful not to press too hard, or you might lose some of the filling.
• Cheese Choices: While Swiss and Gruyère are traditional, feel free to use other melting cheeses like cheddar or provolone if you prefer.

Recipe Notes

• Make It Your Own: Customize your Monte Cristo by adding extra toppings like sautéed onions, spinach, or even a slice of turkey for a twist on the classic.
• Cooking Tip: Keep the heat on medium-low to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
• Serving Ideas: These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a side salad or fresh fruit. They’re perfect for brunch, lunch, or a comforting dinner.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
While the Monte Cristo is best served fresh and hot off the griddle, you can assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. Just remember to cook them fresh for that crispy exterior!

2. Can I freeze the assembled sandwiches?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sandwiches before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw and cook as directed.

3. Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! You can swap the ham for turkey, roast beef, or chicken. A combination of meats and cheeses also works well for a more varied flavor profile.

4. Can I make this without the powdered sugar?
Yes, the powdered sugar is optional, but it adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich. You can skip it if you prefer a more straightforward savory sandwich.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat the sandwiches in a skillet or on the griddle over low heat, pressing gently to re-crisp the bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Add a cup of soup (tomato or creamy potato) for a cozy and comforting meal combo.
• Raspberry Jam or even a sweet chutney adds the perfect dip to balance the richness of the sandwich.

This Blackstone Monte Cristo is perfect for anyone craving the satisfying combination of savory ham, melty cheese, and crispy, egg-coated bread with a touch of sweetness. Easy, delicious, and satisfying, it’s the ultimate griddled sandwich for any occasion