Monte Cristo

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Course: Main Course, Lunch

• Cuisine: American, Carnivore

• Diet: Carnivore, Low-Carb, Keto, Gluten-Free

• Servings: 1 hearty sandwich

• Calories: Approx. 850 kcal

Recipe Intensity: Medium

This recipe requires a bit of technique, particularly in forming the “bread” and flipping the sandwich. It’s not for the absolute beginner, but a confident home cook will find it straightforward and rewarding. The key is patience and ensuring your “bread” layers are firm enough to handle.

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Ingredients

For the Carnivore “Bread” Slices:

• 2 oz (about 1 ½ cups) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese

• 1 oz cream cheese

• 1 large egg

• Pinch of salt (optional)

For the Filling:

• 2 oz thinly sliced Black Forest ham

• 2 oz thinly sliced roasted turkey breast

• 1 slice (1 oz) Swiss cheese

• 1 slice (1 oz) provolone cheese

• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

For Frying and Serving:

• 1 tbsp butter

• Additional 1 large egg, for dipping (optional, for extra crispness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Create the Carnivore “Bread” Dough

In a medium-sized, microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Remove and stir. Microwave for another 15-30 seconds until the cheeses are fully melted and can be stirred together into a smooth, stringy mass.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Allow the hot cheese mixture to cool for a minute so you can handle it. Quickly add the one egg and the optional pinch of salt. Use a spatula or your hands to mix vigorously until a uniform, slightly sticky dough forms. This is the foundation of your bread.

Step 3: Shape the “Bread” Slices

Divide the dough into two equal balls. Place each ball between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin or your hands, press and flatten each ball into a square or rectangle about ¼-inch thick, roughly the size of a slice of bread. The goal is to have two even “slices.” If the dough is too sticky, wet your fingers slightly. Place the shaped slices, still on the parchment, in the freezer for exactly 10 minutes. This is a critical step to firm up the dough for handling.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

While the “bread” chills, lay out your filling ingredients. Remove one “bread” slice from the freezer (keep the other chilled). Layer the ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and provolone cheese evenly on top, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the other fillings.

Carefully remove the second “bread” slice from the freezer and place it on top of the fillings. Gently press down around the edges to seal the sandwich. You can use your fingers to crimp the edges slightly, as the dough will be pliable but firm.

Step 5: The Optional Dip (For a True Monte Cristo Experience)

For an extra layer of richness and a crispier exterior, whisk the remaining egg in a shallow dish wide enough to fit the sandwich. Carefully dip the entire assembled sandwich into the egg, coating both sides. Let any excess drip off.

Step 6: Pan-Fry to Perfection

In a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is foaming but not burning, carefully place the sandwich in the pan.

Cook for 4-5 minutes, undisturbed, until the bottom is deep golden brown and crisp. This requires patience—don’t peek too early! Using a wide, flexible spatula, carefully flip the sandwich. It’s delicate, so be confident. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side until equally golden brown and the cheese inside is visibly melted.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Transfer the finished Carnivore Monte Cristo to a cutting board. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut without everything oozing out.

Slice the sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately. Enjoy the incredible contrast of the crispy, cheesy exterior with the warm, savory, melted interior.

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Notes & Tips for Success

• Cheese is Key: Use pre-shredded, low-moisture mozzarella for the best results. Fresh mozzarella has too much water and will make the dough soggy.

• Don’t Skip the Chill: Freezing the shaped dough is non-negotiable. It transforms the sticky dough into a workable, bread-like consistency. If you skip this, the dough will be impossible to handle.

• Low and Slow Frying: If your sandwich is browning too quickly before the inside is warm, reduce the heat to medium-low. The goal is to heat it through while achieving a perfect crust.

• Get Creative with Fillings: The carnivore diet allows for other fillings. Try crispy bacon, sliced roast beef, or even a different combination of your favorite cheeses like cheddar or gouda.

• Carnivore “Syrup”: For a truly decadent experience that mimics the sweet-and-salty original, gently warm a tablespoon of sugar-free maple syrup (if you include minor plant seasonings) or, for a pure carnivore option, reduce a mixture of heavy cream and a pinch of salt over low heat until it thickens slightly into a rich, savory “gravy” for dipping.

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Nutrition Information

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Serving Size: 1 full sandwich

A Note on Nutrition:

This Carnivore Monte Cristo is a powerhouse of protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent fuel source for an active lifestyle. It is intentionally designed to be virtually zero-carb. The high sodium content comes naturally from the cheeses and cured meats, which is often beneficial for electrolyte balance on a strict carnivore diet. As with any rich food, this is a hearty meal best enjoyed as part of a varied carnivore eating plan.