One of my favorite things to eat in college was grilled ham and cheese sandwiches from the student union. With a packed schedule, I often didn’t have time for a sit down meal in one of the dining halls, but I could get a fresh, made-to-order grilled ham and cheese on the run between work and night class. It always hit the right note of warm, salty and satisfying. Don’t come at me with your “that’s what she said” jokes. I will end you :P

Today, I offer you the grilled ham and cheese’s sexy foreign cousin–the Monte Cristo. If you haven’t heard of a Monte Cristo before, it’s basically a grilled ham and cheese French toast sandwich. That might sound strange, but I promise it’s delicious and it’s almost as simple as making a standard grilled cheese.

To make one sandwich, you’ll need:

• Good sliced bread (I like thick cut sourdough)
• 2 slices of ham
• 2-3 slices of swiss cheese
• Dijon mustard
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 T of butter
• Powder sugar for dusting

1. On one slice of bread, spread a thin layer of mustard. Layer your ham and cheese on top and top with the other slice of bread.
2. Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl/dish, something wide enough to fit the bread. Lay the sandwich in the egg allowing each side of the sandwich to get thoroughly coated.
3. Melt the butter in a non-stick frying pan.
4. Cook the sandwich for several minutes on each side allowing for a nice crusty coating to form.
5. Plate the sandwich and dust with powder sugar. Trust me. It adds the perfect finishing touch.

Salty and sweet, soft and cheesy. This sandwich is great any time of day.