Baked Ham Souffle
A savory baked ham souffle featuring layers of bread, ham, cheese, and a creamy egg mixture, topped with crushed cereal and baked until golden and custard-like. Perfect for brunch or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take crusts off of bread.
- Arrange 8 slices of bread in a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Arrange ham, cheese, and remaining bread on top.
- Beat eggs; add dry mustard and salt.
- Mix well.
- Add milk to the egg mixture.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sandwiches in the pan.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Crush cereal and sprinkle on top of the mixture.
- Drizzle melted oleo over the top.
- Bake for 1 hour at 300°F or until set like custard.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different cheeses such as Swiss or cheddar in place of Old English cheese. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half-and-half for some of the milk. When preparing the casserole, ensure the bread is sufficiently soaked in the egg mixture for optimal texture. You can also add sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ham soufflé warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a slice of fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a sweet contrast. This dish is perfect for brunch or a casual dinner and can be accompanied by a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked ham soufflé in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through, or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, until heated thoroughly. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ham Souffle contains roughly 235 calories, with 7g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1202mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the soufflé ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the baked ham soufflé the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the bread absorbs the egg mixture fully. Just remember to add the cereal and melted oleo just before baking to maintain their texture.
What can I use instead of sandwich bread?
You can substitute sandwich bread with croissants, brioche, or even whole grain bread for a different texture and flavor. If you use a denser bread, you may want to adjust the soaking time to ensure that the egg mixture is fully absorbed.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor. You can also incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the dish, making it equally delicious and satisfying without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).