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A close-up shot of the Bennigans Monte Cristo sandwich layers, showing the melted swiss and american cheese with ham and turkey before frying.

Bennigans Monte Cristo (The Ultimate Copycat Recipe)

The ultimate copycat Bennigans Monte Cristo recipe! Learn how to make the iconic deep-fried ham, turkey, and cheese sandwich with a perfectly crispy batter, just like the restaurant classic. Served with powdered sugar and raspberry jam.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 1 sandwich
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 slices Thick-Sliced White Bread
  • 2 slices Thinly Sliced Ham
  • 2 slices Thinly Sliced Turkey
  • 1 slice Swiss Cheese
  • 1 slice American Cheese
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 1/2 cup Milk
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 3 cups Vegetable Oil for frying
  • 2 tbsp Powdered Sugar for dusting
  • 1/4 cup Raspberry Jam for dipping

Equipment

  • 1 Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Shallow Dish (for batter)
  • 1 Tongs
  • 1 Wire Rack

Method
 

  1. Assemble the sandwich: On one slice of bread, layer the ham and Swiss cheese. On the second slice, layer the turkey and American cheese. Press the halves together firmly.
  2. Secure and slice: Insert two toothpicks diagonally through the sandwich to hold it together. Cut the sandwich in half to make two triangles.
  3. Make the batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the egg and milk, whisking until the batter is smooth and thin.
  4. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350-365°F (175-185°C).
  5. Coat and fry: Dip each sandwich half into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Let excess batter drip off. Carefully place in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crispy.
  6. Drain: Remove the sandwich from the oil with tongs and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Remove toothpicks.
  7. Serve: Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately with a side of raspberry jam for dipping.

Notes

Oil Temperature is Key: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for a crispy, non-greasy sandwich.
Rest on a Wire Rack: Don't place the fried sandwich on paper towels, as this can make the bottom soggy. A wire rack is best for draining.
Serve Immediately: This sandwich is at its peak deliciousness right out of the fryer.