Cheese Royale
A rich, cheesy bread casserole with a golden crust, perfect for brunch or family dinners. Combines sharp cheddar and buttery bread for comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bread cubes in a 6-cup casserole (13 x 9). Add cheese cubes and mix.
- Beat eggs; add milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese cubes.
- Let stand for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Stick triangles of buttered bread slices around the top to form a crown and bake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of sharp Cheddar and Gruyère cheese. If you don’t have bread cubes, stale bread can be cut into cubes and used. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. For extra seasoning, try incorporating herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which pair beautifully with this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Royale is delightful as a brunch centerpiece or a comforting dinner dish. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or sautéed greens for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with the Spinach Cottage Cheese Souffle Salad for a varied spread. For a heartier option, consider adding crispy bacon or sausage on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If the top gets too brown, cover it with foil while reheating to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Royale contains roughly 1102 calories, with 29g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (61% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1192mg 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 make Cheese Royale ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to add the buttered bread crown before baking in the morning for a crispy top.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Stale bread works best, as it absorbs the egg and milk mixture without becoming too soggy. French bread, sourdough, or even whole grain bread are excellent choices. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it may not hold up well during baking.
How do I know when the Cheese Royale is done baking?
The Cheese Royale is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking typically takes about 45-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to set up properly.
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).