Homemade Bennigan's-Style Monte Cristo Sandwich
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
3
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Calories
915 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Homemade Bennigan's-Style Monte Cristo Sandwich
Description
The Homemade Bennigan's-Style Monte Cristo Sandwich combines deli turkey and ham with American and Swiss cheeses sandwiched between three slices of wheat bread, forming a triple-decker. The sandwich is dipped thoroughly in a batter made from egg, water, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder, then deep-fried in vegetable oil until a golden crust forms, sealing in the warm, melty fillings. The contrast of the crispy, slightly sweet batter with the savory meats and cheeses defines this dish.
The frying process develops a crisp, warm crust that complements the creamy cheeses and deli meats inside. The powdered sugar sprinkled on top adds a subtle sweetness that pairs naturally with the raspberry preserves served alongside. This combination creates a balance of salty, sweet, and rich flavors. The sandwich is cut into quarters for easy sharing or serving as an entrée with French fried potatoes and a pickle garnish.
Ensuring the oil temperature is just right and fully coating the sandwich in batter are key steps for achieving the ideal texture. Letting the sandwich cool briefly after frying helps it set before slicing. The included toothpicks hold the sandwich together during frying and should be removed carefully before serving.
Ingredients
- 9 lices Wheat bread
- 3 lices turkey deli style
- 3 lices ham deli
- 3 lices American cheese
- 3 lices swiss cheese
Batter
- 1 egg
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Place turkey and Swiss cheese on one slice of bread and ham and American cheese on another slice of bread. Place third slice in-between and secure the triple-decker sandwich in the corners with toothpicks.
- Place egg in mixing bowl, add water and beat together. Add salt, sugar, flour, and baking powder. Beat batter until smooth.
- Dip sandwich in batter and carefully cover all the sides and surface. Carefully place in hot oil and fry until golden. When the sandwich has turned a warm gold color remove it from the hot oil and place it on a paper towel. Let cool for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks. Before serving slice into fourths and sprinkle with powder sugar.
- Serve with raspberry preserves, pickle garnish, and your favorite French fried potatoes.
Notes
- Dip the sandwich quickly but fully to saturate the bread without causing it to fall apart.
- Maintain hot oil that sizzles gently when adding the sandwich for the crispiest crust.
- Allow the sandwich to cool slightly on paper towels to drain excess oil before removing toothpicks and slicing.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 3Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 915 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 915kcal | 46% |
| Carbohydrates | 88g | 29% |
| Protein | 40g | 80% |
| Fat | 44g | 68% |
| Saturated Fat | 27g | 135% |
| Cholesterol | 132mg | 44% |
| Sodium | 1735mg | 72% |
| Potassium | 903mg | 19% |
| Fiber | 7g | 28% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 580IU | 12% |
| Calcium | 801mg | 80% |
| Iron | 5.9mg | 33% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.