Waffle Sandwich Recipe: 15-Minute Delicious Treat

I was skeptical at first—waffles instead of bread? But after one bite of crispy, buttery waffles filled with melty cheese and savory ham, I was hooked! The Monte Cristo, often called the American cousin of the French Croque Monsieur, traditionally uses egg-dipped bread, but swapping it for Belgian waffles adds a sweet crunch. Grilled to golden perfection and served with jam and powdered sugar, this waffle sandwich is perfect for brunch, a weekend treat, or even a quick weekday meal.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Why should you try this Monte Cristo waffle sandwich? Let me count the ways.

The perfect balance of flavors – You get a little bit of everything: crispy, sweet waffles, savory ham, and melted cheese, all brought together with a touch of jam.
Easy to make – No need to be a pro chef! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal in no time.
Perfect for meal prep – Got a busy week ahead? These sandwiches can be prepped in advance and stored for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
A fun twist on a classic – Traditional Monte Cristo sandwiches are delicious, but swapping out the bread for waffles adds a unique and exciting element.
Diet-friendly options – Whether you’re looking for a healthier version or a gluten-free alternative, this sandwich can easily be customized to fit your dietary needs.

Ingredients List

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make the ultimate waffle sandwich.

For the Waffle Sandwich:

Waffles: Belgian-style yeast waffles are ideal, but frozen ones work too for convenience.
Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss cheese for that classic Monte Cristo meltiness.
Ham: Baked ham, thinly sliced.
Butter: For grilling and getting that golden, crispy finish.

For Serving:

Powdered sugar: Just a light dusting for a hint of sweetness.
Jam: Raspberry or strawberry jam pairs perfectly.
Optional additions: Maple syrup, honey, or even a touch of Dijon mustard for a savory twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this sweet and savory masterpiece? Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Preparing the Waffles

First things first—waffles. If you’re feeling ambitious, go for homemade Belgian-style waffles. They’re light, fluffy, and crisp up beautifully. But if you’re short on time, store-bought frozen waffles will work just fine.

Pro tip: Toast the waffles lightly before assembling the sandwich to ensure they stay crispy after grilling.

Step 2: Assembling the Sandwich

Now comes the fun part—building your sandwich! Start by layering a slice of ham, followed by a generous handful of shredded Gruyère cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, spread a little Dijon mustard or raspberry jam on the inside of the waffles for extra flavor.

Waffle sandwich being assembled with ham, cheese, and crispy bacon on a wooden counter.

Layering tip: Place cheese on both sides to act as a “glue” that holds everything together when it melts.

Step 3: Grilling to Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Place the assembled waffle sandwich in the pan and press it down gently with a spatula. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the waffles are golden brown.

Best tools to use:

Non-stick skillet for easy flipping.
Cast iron pan for an even, crispy crust.
Panini press for a no-fuss approach.

Step 4: Serving and Enjoying

Once your Monte Cristo waffle sandwich is grilled to perfection, place it on a plate, dust it lightly with powdered sugar, and serve with a side of raspberry jam for dipping.

Monte Cristo waffle sandwich served with raspberry jam and powdered sugar.

Want to take it up a notch? Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup or pair it with a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for the Perfect Monte Cristo Waffle Sandwich

Want to get that perfect bite every time? Here are a few tried-and-true tips:

Crispy vs. fluffy waffles: If you love crunch, toast your waffles before grilling to enhance texture.
Cheese matters: Gruyère melts beautifully, but Swiss or even cheddar can add a unique touch.
Storage and reheating: Make extra sandwiches and freeze them for a quick breakfast later. Wrap them tightly in foil and reheat in an air fryer for the best results.
Avoid sogginess: Be mindful of how much jam you add—too much can make your sandwich soggy.

Healthy and Dietary-Friendly Options

If you’re watching what you eat or have dietary restrictions, don’t worry—this waffle sandwich is super versatile. You can easily tweak the ingredients to make a healthier or diet-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.

Gluten-Free Waffle Sandwich Alternatives

For those avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free waffles made with almond or oat flour. Many grocery stores carry pre-made gluten-free options, but if you’re feeling ambitious, try making your own at home. Pair them with nitrate-free ham and organic cheese to keep things clean and wholesome.

Vegan-Friendly Substitutions

Want to make this sandwich plant-based? No problem! Swap out traditional ingredients with these delicious alternatives:

Waffles: Use vegan waffles made with almond milk and flax eggs.
Cheese: Go for dairy-free cheese options like cashew-based Gruyère.
Ham: Replace with vegan deli slices or grilled tofu for a protein-packed twist.
Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Variations

Following a low-carb or keto diet? Try swapping the waffles for almond flour or coconut flour-based keto waffles. Fill them with high-fat cheeses and lean ham or turkey for a protein-rich, satisfying meal that aligns with your macros.

Occasions to Serve Monte Cristo Waffle Sandwich

One of the best things about this sandwich is how versatile it is. Whether you’re planning a fancy brunch or just need a quick bite, it fits every occasion.

Weekend Brunch with Friends and Family

Picture this: a cozy weekend morning, a steaming cup of coffee, and a plate of warm Monte Cristo waffle sandwiches dusted with powdered sugar. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a brunch spread with friends and family. Add a side of fresh fruit and yogurt for a well-rounded meal.

Valentine’s Day Breakfast Surprise

Want to impress your loved one? This sweet and savory sandwich makes for an adorable breakfast-in-bed option. Serve it with a heart-shaped dusting of powdered sugar for that extra special touch.

Kid-Friendly Lunchbox Idea

Kids love anything that combines waffles and ham! Cut the sandwich into bite-sized pieces, pack it with a small container of jam for dipping, and you’ve got a school lunch that’ll make them the envy of the cafeteria.

Quick Breakfast for Busy Mornings

Pressed for time? These sandwiches can be made in advance, stored in the fridge or freezer, and reheated in minutes. They’re the perfect grab-and-go breakfast for hectic mornings when you need something filling and delicious.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Making a batch of these sandwiches ahead of time is a game-changer, especially for busy mornings. Here’s how to store and reheat them to keep them tasting fresh and crispy.

Waffle sandwich wrapped for storage in plastic wrap and foil, stacked in the freezer.

How to Store Your Sandwiches

Refrigerator: Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap sandwiches in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Best Reheating Methods

1. Air Fryer (Best Option!)

For refrigerated sandwiches, heat at 340°F for 5 minutes.
For frozen ones, set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 8-10 minutes.

2. Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Wrap the sandwich in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes.

3. Microwave (Quick Fix)

Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 60-90 seconds.
Note: The waffle may lose some crispiness.

Want to save even more time? Pre-assemble your sandwiches and store them in the freezer for a quick, satisfying breakfast whenever you need it.

Pairing Suggestions

Wondering what to serve alongside your Monte Cristo waffle sandwich? Here are some tasty pairings that complement its sweet and savory flavors.

Fresh Fruits for a Balanced Meal

A side of fresh berries, sliced apples, or citrus fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. The natural sweetness of fruit pairs beautifully with the salty ham and melty cheese.

Beverages to Complement Your Meal

Coffee: A rich, dark roast balances the sweetness of the jam.
Tea: A fruity herbal tea can complement the flavors without overpowering them.
Smoothies: A protein-packed smoothie makes this meal even more satisfying.

Savory Sides for Brunch Perfection

Want to take it up a notch? Serve your sandwich with crispy hash browns or a side of scrambled eggs to turn it into a full brunch feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple sandwich like this has a few pitfalls that can ruin your experience. Here’s what to watch out for when making your Monte Cristo waffle sandwich.

Overloading with ingredients: Too much ham or cheese can make the sandwich difficult to grill properly and lead to a soggy texture.
Not using enough butter: Skimping on butter when grilling can prevent that perfectly golden, crispy finish.
Choosing the wrong type of waffles: Make sure your waffles are sturdy enough to hold the fillings without getting too soft.
Skipping the jam: The sweetness of the jam balances the richness of the sandwich—don’t miss out!

FAQs

What is the TikTok waffle sandwich?

A TikTok waffle sandwich is a viral recipe featuring creative fillings like Nutella, chicken, and even pizza toppings sandwiched between crispy waffles.

Can you use a waffle maker for sandwiches?

Yes! A waffle maker can press and cook sandwiches, giving them a crispy exterior and melty interior.

What is in the Waffle House sandwich?

The Waffle House sandwich usually includes eggs, cheese, and sausage, served between two waffles.

Did Waffle House sell Chick-fil-A sandwiches?

No, Waffle House has never officially sold Chick-fil-A sandwiches, but there are many copycat recipes you can try at home.

Final Thoughts

The Monte Cristo waffle sandwich is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is actually super easy to make. Whether you’re whipping it up for a lazy Sunday brunch or prepping a few for busy weekday mornings, it’s a meal that never disappoints. The combination of crispy waffles, melty cheese, and savory ham—plus that delightful touch of powdered sugar and jam—hits all the right notes.

What makes this sandwich even better is its versatility. You can customize it to fit your taste, swap ingredients to make it healthier, or even turn it into a fun meal for kids. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can always have one ready to go when hunger strikes.

If you haven’t tried making a Monte Cristo waffle sandwich yet, now’s the time to give it a shot. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner! And don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and fillings to find your perfect combination.