Gourmet Souffle
A savory, cheesy souffle layered with ham, vegetables, and bread, perfect for brunch or special occasions, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, place 6 slices of bread, buttered face down in the pan, with crusts removed.
- Add diced ham, mushrooms (if using), chopped green pepper, green onions, and grated Cheddar and Jack cheeses.
- Cover with 6 slices of bread that have been cubed, preferably slightly frozen for easier cutting.
- Beat eggs with milk and pour over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake, uncovered, on a cookie sheet at 350°F for 1 hour until set.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter soufflé, consider using whole grain bread instead of regular white bread. If you don't have green peppers, feel free to substitute with diced tomatoes or spinach. Adding herbs like thyme or basil can elevate the flavor. If you want a richer taste, incorporate some cream cheese into the egg and milk mixture. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time like a Ham Potato Cheese Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soufflé warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of additional cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side salad for a complete meal or alongside Special Ham Sandwiches for a brunch gathering. For a heartier option, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a fruit compote to balance the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be cautious not to overcook them, as they may become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gourmet Souffle contains roughly 539 calories, with 18g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (70% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 soufflé vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soufflé vegetarian by omitting the ham and mushrooms. Consider adding more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even artichokes to maintain a hearty texture. You may also want to enhance the flavor with additional spices or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese.
How can I ensure my soufflé rises properly?
To achieve a fluffy rise, make sure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them into the mixture. Additionally, avoid opening the oven door while baking, as this can cause the soufflé to collapse. Ensure your baking dish is preheated and greased well to help with the rise.
Can I freeze the soufflé?
While it's not ideal to freeze a baked soufflé due to texture changes, you can freeze the unbaked layered dish before adding the egg and milk mixture. Just be sure to cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with the recipe.
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).