Cheese Souffle
Cheese Souffle offers a light, fluffy texture with rich cheesy flavor, perfect for a cozy family dinner or elegant brunch. The combination of eggs, sharp cheese, and a subtle hint of red pepper creates a comforting yet sophisticated dish that pairs well with fresh salads or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the sides and bottom of a medium-sized casserole dish with bread dipped in melted butter or margarine.
- Mix eggs, milk, grated cheese, salt, and red pepper together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into the bread-lined dish.
- Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes or until the souffle is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter souffle, separate the eggs and whip the whites to stiff peaks before folding them into the mixture. You can substitute the sharp cheese with any cheese of your preference, such as Gruyère or cheddar. If you want to add some heat, a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor. Ensure the bread is stale for better texture and absorption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese souffle hot, directly from the oven, as a delightful main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a light soup. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Cottage Herb Rolls for a comforting touch.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the leftover souffle to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to restore its texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may turn rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Souffle contains roughly 688 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 764mg 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 this souffle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the souffle mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just assemble it in the bread-lined dish but do not bake until you're ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy a freshly baked souffle with minimal effort.
What if my souffle doesn't rise?
If your souffle doesn't rise, it could be due to overmixing the egg whites, which can deflate them. Ensure you fold them gently into the mixture. Also, check that your oven is preheated properly, as an incorrect temperature can affect the rise.
Can I freeze the cheese souffle?
It's not recommended to freeze the souffle after baking, as it may compromise the texture. However, you can freeze the unbaked mixture for up to a month. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it as directed.
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).