Cheese Cloud
Cheese Cloud is a comforting baked bread dish layered with cheddar cheese, seasoned with mustard and onion, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crusts from bread and arrange six slices in the bottom of a greased 12x8 inch baking dish.
- Cover with cheese slices, then with remaining bread slices.
- Beat eggs, add milk, mustard, onion, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and let stand at room temperature for one hour.
- Alternatively, refrigerate overnight if more convenient.
- Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 to 60 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of 2% or skim. You can substitute Swiss cheese for cheddar for a milder flavor. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance the dish. If you want extra flavor, incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach between the bread layers. This recipe is versatile and easily adjustable to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside fruit, like sliced strawberries or melons, for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, it can also be complemented with a light soup. Enjoying it with a glass of chilled orange juice enhances the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cheese Cloud can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Cloud contains roughly 659 calories, with 17g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (86% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 751mg per serving (33% 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 Cloud ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cheese Cloud the night before. After pouring the egg mixture over the bread, cover the dish and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes morning preparation easier, just remember to increase the baking time slightly if starting from the fridge.
What can I use if I don't have cheddar cheese?
If cheddar cheese isn't available, you can use any good melting cheese such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a combination of cheeses for added flavor. Each will give a different but delicious twist to the dish while maintaining the overall creamy texture.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Cheese Cloud is a vegetarian recipe, as it primarily consists of bread, cheese, and eggs. However, always ensure that any cheese you use is rennet-free if you are catering to strict vegetarians. This dish is hearty and filling, making it an excellent choice for vegetarian meals.
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).