Dinner

Montecristo Sandwich Recipe

ByClara Bennett January 9, 2026January 9, 2026

Introduction

The Montecristo sandwich is a deliciously indulgent twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring smoky grilled chicken and rich Gruyere cheese. Coated in an egg batter and toasted to golden perfection, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

A white plate with a brown rim holds two triangular grilled cheese sandwich halves, each with a golden brown, crispy outer layer and melted yellow cheese oozing from inside, making a total of three visible layers: the browned bread top and bottom, and the gooey cheese middle. Next to the sandwiches on the plate is a pale green pickle spear lying lengthwise, and a small white bowl containing three small, colorful peppers—one orange, one red, and one greenish-yellow—adding bright contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a stack of soft, lightly toasted tortillas on a wooden board in the background, beside two condiment bottles, one yellow and one white, slightly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 slices bread of choice
6 slices grilled chicken (Boar’s Head FireSmith Flame)
4 slices smoked Gruyere (thick slices)
Gruyere (shredded, amount to taste)
Mayonnaise (to taste)
Mustard (to taste)
Salsa macha (to taste, optional)
2 eggs
1 tbsp cream
2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the eggs with the cream until fully combined to create the egg wash.
Step 2: Spread mayonnaise on one slice of bread and add salsa macha if using. Layer the grilled chicken and shredded Gruyere over it.
Step 3: Spread mustard on the other slice of bread, then top with the thick slices of smoked Gruyere.
Step 4: Press the two slices of bread together firmly to form the sandwich.
Step 5: Preheat a pan over medium-low heat for about 2 minutes and add 1 tablespoon of butter per sandwich.
Step 6: Dip the sandwich quickly into the egg wash, coating both sides evenly.
Step 7: Place the sandwich in the pan and toast on both sides until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 8: Serve immediately, ideally with cherry peppers and pickles on the side for a perfect balance of flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use a sturdy bread like sourdough or brioche to hold up to the egg wash and fillings without becoming soggy.
For a vegetarian version, substitute grilled chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Add a touch of honey or jam inside the sandwich for a sweet and savory contrast.
Adjust the salsa macha amount to control the heat level according to your preference.

Storage

Store leftover Montecristo sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in a toaster oven to restore the crispy exterior and melted cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

On a white plate with a brown rim, there are two halves of a grilled sandwich placed apart, showing three layers inside: a crispy, dark golden-brown toasted bread outside layer, a middle layer of melted pale yellow cheese, and a moist, light beige meat layer beneath the cheese. Above the sandwich, a small white bowl holds four round pickled peppers in red, orange, and green hues with shiny, smooth skins and stems. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, Gruyere adds a nice nutty flavor, but you can also use Swiss, cheddar, or fontina for a similar melty texture and taste.

Can I prepare the sandwich ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwich in advance and refrigerate it. Dip it in the egg wash and cook just before serving to keep the bread crisp and the cheese perfectly melted.

Clara Bennett