Sandwich A La Maria(Great For School Lunch.)
A savory layered bread and cheese casserole with ham, green onions, and parsley, baked until golden—perfect for school lunches or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bread slices with a 3-inch doughnut cutter to make 12 rounds. Tear remaining bread into 1-inch pieces and arrange in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, diced cooked ham, and sliced green onion over the bread pieces.
- Arrange the bread rounds over the cheese, ham, and green onion layer.
- Combine milk, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, and mustard.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture over the layered bread and cheese.
- Seal the dish and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 55 to 60 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing some Dijon mustard into the milk and egg mixture. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar is a great substitute. You can also use cooked turkey instead of ham for a lighter option. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Honeydew Biscuits. This recipe is perfect for school lunches or brunch gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sandwich A La Maria(Great For School Lunch.) contains roughly 567 calories, with 17g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 583mg per serving (25% 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! You can assemble the sandwich the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast or lunch option.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You might also want to increase the amount of cheese for added flavor and richness, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Cut the dish into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
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).