Savory Cheese Puffs
Savory cheese puffs are a cheesy, hearty side dish with a moist, casserole-like texture, perfect for entertaining or family dinners, featuring cheddar cheese and a flavorful crumb topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the crumb packet from Stove Top stuffing in a 2-quart casserole.
- Add grated or cubed cheddar cheese to the casserole.
- Sprinkle with flour and top with melted oleo (butter).
- Combine eggs, milk, and the vegetable (stuffing crumb) packet.
- Mix well and pour the mixture over the ingredients in the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Serve hot as a savory side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheddar cheese and substituting half the milk with unsweetened almond milk. If you don't have oleo, melted butter works well. You can also experiment by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps, and if you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
These savory cheese puffs make an excellent side dish for hearty meals like roasted chicken or a savory pot roast. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be served alongside a warm bowl of Spinach, Artichoke And Mushroom Dip for a delightful appetizer spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the savory cheese puffs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Cheese Puffs contains roughly 761 calories, with 15g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 517mg per serving (22% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving to ensure the cheese puffs are fluffy and warm. If baking from chilled, you may need to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it mainly consists of cheese, eggs, and milk. Just ensure that the stuffing used does not contain any meat-based ingredients. You can also explore variations with additional vegetables for a nutrient boost.
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).