Imagine biting into the perfect blend of savory and sweet with every layer of this Monte Cristo Sandwich. It’s not just your classic sandwich—it’s packed with melty cheese, ham, and turkey, then taken up a notch with a touch of Clif Family’s Red Pepper Jam. Whether you're brunching at home or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe brings all the comfort and flavor you crave.
Monte Cristo 'il pepe' Sandwich with Red Pepper Jam
Recipe by the Clif Family Culinary Team Yield: 1 Sandwich INGREDIENTS: 1 large egg 1/2 Tbsp half-and-half 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt 2 slices thick cut, sturdy bread, either soft white, sourdough or challah 1 Tbsp Clif Family Organic Red Pepper Jam 1-2 tsp mayonnaise 2 oz. Gruyère or swiss cheese, grated 2-3 slices honey ham ½ Tbsp unsalted butter Powdered sugar for serving (optional) DIRECTIONS: Combine egg, half-and-half and salt and whisk together to make egg wash, set aside. Coat 1 slice of bread in an even layer of red pepper jam and the other slice in mayonnaise. Place 1 slice of cheese (or 1 oz shredded) on each piece of bread. Place 2-3 slices of ham on the inside of the sandwich, between the layers of cheese. Firmly press the sandwich to ensure that nothing falls out when you coat it in the egg wash. Evenly coat both sides of the sandwich in the reserved egg wash. Heat a skillet over med-low heat and add 1/2 Tbsp butter to coat pan. Transfer the egg coated sandwich to the skillet and sear both sides for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown and the cheese inside has melted. If the sandwich develops a lot of color from the pan, but the cheese has not melted all the way, transfer to a sheet tray with a rack and continue to cook in a 400F oven until the cheese has fully melted. Transfer to plate and top with powdered sugar and enjoy.
