Cheese Pet
A savory cheese casserole layered with bread and sharp cheese, soaked in an egg mixture with wine and mustard, perfect for brunch or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Alternate layers of buttered bread cubes and grated sharp cheese in a buttered casserole dish.
- Beat eggs until thick and frothy.
- Add milk or half and half, white wine, dry mustard, and salt to the beaten eggs.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese layers.
- Let the casserole stand in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to absorb flavors.
- Bring the casserole to room temperature before baking.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère or cheddar. If you're short on time, you can skip the overnight soaking and bake immediately, but the casserole benefits from the extra time to absorb flavors. Substitute white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheese Pet casserole as a hearty brunch dish alongside a fresh salad or fruit for balance. It pairs beautifully with Hash Browns With Fried Onion Rings for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, consider a side of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, though this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Pet contains roughly 310 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% 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 use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for buttered bread, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as sourdough or whole grain. Just be mindful of the bread's texture, as denser breads may require slightly longer soaking time.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cheese Pet casserole is vegetarian-friendly, as it mainly consists of bread, cheese, and eggs. Just ensure that the cheese you choose is made without animal rennet if you want it to be strictly vegetarian.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
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).