Cheese Bake
A savory cheese bake featuring layers of buttery cracker crumbs, sweet onions, and melted cheddar cheese, topped with Parmesan and paprika for a flavorful crust. This comforting dish is perfect for buffets or as an entrée, offering a rich, cheesy experience with subtle curry and red pepper hints.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss crushed saltines with melted butter to coat well.
- Add curry powder to the cracker mixture.
- Line an 11 x 16-inch pan with three-quarters of the cracker mixture.
- Spread chopped sweet onions over the cracker layer.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the onions.
- Combine scalded milk, lightly beaten eggs, salt, and red pepper.
- Pour the milk mixture over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining cracker mixture on top.
- Top with a light layer of Parmesan cheese and paprika.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the milk mixture. If you're out of Cheddar, any good melting cheese like Monterey Jack works well as a substitute. To add a bit more flavor, you could incorporate minced garlic or herbs into the onion layer. This dish is also versatile; try it with other American recipes that feature similar flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Cheese Bake into squares and serve warm as a main dish or as an appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert, consider following it up with Peppermint Cheesecake to balance the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This ensures the texture remains intact without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Bake contains roughly 1271 calories, with 47g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (111% of the Daily Value), calcium (102% of the Daily Value), and protein (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1432mg per serving (62% 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 make Cheese Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheese Bake a day in advance. Assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian; just ensure that the cheese you use is made without animal rennet. You could also add more vegetables or substitute the onions for sautéed mushrooms for an added depth of flavor.
What can I serve alongside Cheese Bake?
Cheese Bake is delicious on its own, but serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed greens salad enhances the meal. You can also pair it with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and contrast to the richness of the dish.
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).