Nice 'N' Cheesy
A cheesy baked casserole featuring bread, sharp Cheddar, and mushroom flavors, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer bread cubes, half of the pasteurized process cheese spread, half of the Cheddar cheese, drained mushrooms, and the remaining cheeses.
- Melt the butter.
- Add the beaten eggs and light cream to the melted butter and mix well.
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour in a pan of water.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of light cream. If you're short on time, you can use pre-packaged cubed bread instead of cubing your own. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition, making it a great vegetarian option. You could also replace the mushrooms with sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Nice 'N' Cheesy dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Aunt Rose'S Meat Loaf. It also makes a great brunch dish, especially when accompanied by a fruity beverage or a slice of Glazed Peach Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nice 'N' Cheesy contains roughly 1212 calories, with 13g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate overnight. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day. Just remember to bake it uncovered for an hour before serving.
What can I substitute for pasteurized process cheese spread?
If you don't have pasteurized process cheese spread, you can use cream cheese or a combination of ricotta and shredded cheese. This will give a similar creamy texture, but be aware that the flavor may differ slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly the cheeses, are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and accommodating version for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).