City And Country Casserole
City and Country Casserole is a comforting baked dish combining bread, ham, cheese, and a savory egg custard, topped with crunchy corn flakes. Its rich flavors and crispy topping make it a perfect brunch or family dinner option, offering a satisfying mix of textures and hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 8 slices of buttered bread in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer slices of boiled ham and American cheese on top of the bread.
- Cover with the remaining 8 slices of buttered bread, butter side down.
- Mix eggs, milk, dry mustard, and salt together to make the custard.
- Pour the custard mixture over the layered bread, ham, and cheese.
- Let the casserole soak overnight in the refrigerator.
- Before baking, melt butter and mix with crushed corn flakes.
- Sprinkle the corn flake mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole grain bread instead of white sandwich bread. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute low-fat milk for regular milk. You can also add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or onions for an extra layer of taste. If you're short on time, you can prepare the casserole without soaking it overnight, but the texture will be less custardy. This recipe is reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the City And Country Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Green Beans With New Potatoes or a simple mixed green salad to balance the richness. It's perfect for brunch or a casual dinner, and you can also offer hot sauce or ketchup on the side for those who enjoy a little extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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 bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Make sure to cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of City And Country Casserole contains roughly 903 calories, with 8g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1444mg per serving (63% 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 other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While American cheese provides a creamy texture, you can substitute it with cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor slightly, so choose according to your preference.
Is it necessary to soak the casserole overnight?
Soaking the casserole overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard mixture fully, resulting in a creamier texture. If you're short on time, you can bake it right away, but expect a drier texture. Plan ahead for the best results!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking 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).