Quick, easy, and delicious, this Monte Cristo recipe uses a waffle maker to put a fun spin on this classic ham sandwich. Perfect lunch for the whole family!
Pair this delicious warm sandwich with a light, nutritious quinoa salad for a balanced meal!

What is a Monte Cristo Sandwich?
If you haven’t been to Disneyland, this may be the first question in your brain. Monte Cristo sandwiches are a somewhat close relative of the French croque-monsier. It became well known, though, first in California cafes, then in Disneyland. There are many different variations of a Monte Cristo, but the basis of all the recipes include these three ingredients: bread, ham, and cheese. In addition, the sandwich is always prepared warm, like a panini, and usually is accompanied by something sweet, like powdered sugar, syrup, or a jam.

This Monte Cristo recipe is classic and simple. However, there is a fun twist. Instead of grilling your sandwich on a pan, use your waffle maker! Not only does it add delicious crunch to your bread and fun design, but it’s also an easy and fun meal to do with the kids! Using a waffle maker for this sandwich achieves that delicious crisp and heats your sandwich evenly, similar to a panini press.
Switch it up!
One of my favorite things about this recipe is that you can switch it up as much as you like. I love swiss cheese, so that’s what’s we put on our sandwiches. However, you can get as creative as you want: muenster, gruyere, provolone, etc.

Another way to make this Monte Cristo recipe is to do it french toast style! Although it may be a little more to clean up, it’s adds so much texture and richness to your sandwiches! Simply beat two eggs, 1/4 cup of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use this mixture to dip your bread into before putting it on the waffle maker. Just don’t forget to butter the waffle maker first, so it doesn’t stick!

As far as toppings go, we love putting syrup on ours. However, you can eat it with fresh fruits, powdered sugar, jams or syrup! (Almost) anything goes!

Monte Cristo Sandwich Recipe
Quick, easy, and delicious, this monte cristo recipe uses a waffle maker to put a fun spin on this classic ham sandwich!
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread, basic sandwich bread works best
- 2 slice deli Swiss cheese
- 2 slice deli ham
- butter, softened
- syrup
- fresh berries if desired
Instructions
1. Turn on you waffle maker.
2. Butter both slices of bread on one side. Place buttered side down on waffle maker.
3. Top with Swiss cheese, ham, and another piece of bread, buttered side up.
4. Cook sandwich in waffle maker until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.
5. Carefully remove from waffle maker. Top with syrup. Serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
Want to make it french toast style? Simply beat two eggs, 1/4 cup of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use this mixture to dip your bread into before putting it on the waffle maker. Don't forget to butter the waffle maker first, so it doesn't stick!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 540Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 51mgSodium: 813mgCarbohydrates: 77gFiber: 5gSugar: 26gProtein: 19g
Delicious! I made mine using the French toast style! Thank you for sharing this recipe.