John Wayne Souffle
A cheesy, smoky souffle with a tomato twist, perfect for game‑day snacks or a hearty side that delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Butter a deep casserole dish and layer grated cheddar, grated jack, and canned diced chilies.
- Separate the eggs, keeping whites and yolks apart.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then fold in beaten yolks.
- Gently pour the folded egg mixture over the cheese and chili layers.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Drain tomatoes and press them into the souffle with a fork.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter soufflé, ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks, which helps the dish rise beautifully. You can substitute the Cheddar or Jack cheese with other varieties like Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian option. Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the John Wayne Soufflé warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. For a more substantial dish, consider serving with Lauri'S Chicken Bake or a side of Golden Apple Bars for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the souffle cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John Wayne Souffle contains roughly 540 calories, with 12g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1033mg per serving (45% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and layer them in the dish a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to whip the egg whites just before baking.
What can I serve with the John Wayne Soufflé?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a spicy salsa. The soufflé's rich flavors also complement a glass of crisp white wine.
How do I know when the soufflé is done baking?
The soufflé is done when it is puffed up and golden on top. A gentle jiggle in the center is okay, as it will continue to cook slightly after removal. Avoid overbaking, as it can lead to a dry texture.
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).