Cheese Pouf
A savory cheese pouf layered with bread and sharp cheese, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for brunch or casual gatherings, customizable with ham, sausage, or peppers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crusts from bread at least four hours before serving or the day before.
- Grease a shallow casserole dish.
- Layer bread slices, then cut cheese into bite-sized pieces, and layer again with bread and cheese.
- Pour melted margarine over the layered bread and cheese.
- Beat eggs well in a separate bowl.
- Add salt, pepper, dry mustard, and milk to the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and cheese in the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake covered for 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Gruyere or cheddar cheese instead of sharp cheese. If you're short on time, you can skip the overnight refrigeration, but allowing it to rest enhances the flavor and texture. Feel free to add vegetables like diced green peppers or proteins such as diced ham or sausage to customize your dish. Ensure you use fresh bread for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese pouf is a versatile dish that can be served as a brunch option alongside Mabel D'S Pizza Hot Dish or as a savory breakfast. Consider pairing it with a refreshing side like 24 Hour Tossed Salad for balance, or a simple fruit platter to add sweetness. This dish can also be an appealing appetizer for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, but this might affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Pouf contains roughly 425 calories, with 7g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it's ideal to prepare this dish the night before. After layering the bread and cheese, pour the egg mixture over and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures a better texture when baked.
What type of bread works best for cheese pouf?
Sturdy breads like sourdough or whole grain work well for this recipe. Avoid soft, airy breads as they may not hold the layers together. You can also use gluten-free bread if needed, but ensure it has a good texture.
Can I freeze cheese pouf?
Freezing is not recommended for cheese pouf as it may change the texture. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and consume within a few days for the best taste and texture.
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).