Forgotten Souffle
A comforting baked casserole combining bread, cheese, ham, and vegetables, perfect for family dinners or brunches, with creamy eggs and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 to 10 slices white bread, cubed ⓘ
- 3 cups grated Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 2 cups broccoli flowerets ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped onion or chopped red or green pepper or 1 cup mushrooms, all sautéed in 1 to 2 tablespoons butter ⓘ
- 2 cups precooked ham, cubed ⓘ
- 12 eggs
- 3 cups milk ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13 x 2 1/2-inch casserole dish.
- Cover the bottom with 2/3 of the bread cubes.
- Sprinkle half the cheese over the bread.
- Add the cubed ham, sautéed vegetables, remaining bread, and remaining cheese.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl. Add the milk, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Cover with foil during the last part of baking to prevent browning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on the classic, consider adding different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mix. If you prefer, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the egg mixture, which helps in achieving that perfect soufflé texture. This recipe is flexible; feel free to use leftover cooked meats or even omit them for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Forgotten Soufflé warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for brunch or a family gathering, and you can easily double the recipe to serve a larger crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This dish can also be frozen before baking for a quick meal later.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Forgotten Souffle contains roughly 1106 calories, with 34g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and protein (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% 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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The beauty of the Forgotten Soufflé lies in its make-ahead nature. After assembling the layers and pouring the egg mixture, simply cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If broccoli isn't your favorite, try using sautéed spinach, asparagus, or even mixed bell peppers. These vegetables will provide a different flavor profile and still complement the richness of the cheese and ham well.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the cheese and ham, are also labeled gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
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).