Shapleigh Luncheon Cheese
A savory baked cheese and egg casserole featuring mild cheese, cream, and subtle spices, perfect for brunch or casual family meals with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread each slice of bread with margarine and cut into 8 strips.
- Arrange a layer of bread strips in a buttered baking dish.
- Stand the remaining strips upright around the sides of the dish.
- Mix slightly beaten eggs, cream, salt (if using), mustard or Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar and Swiss. If you're short on time, pre-sliced bread can work in place of dry bread. Ensure the bread is very dry to absorb the egg mixture effectively. Adjust the spices to your liking, perhaps adding a pinch of garlic powder or using a flavored margarine for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shapleigh Luncheon Cheese warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some fresh fruit. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Vegetable Dilly Dip for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until warmed through or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shapleigh Luncheon Cheese contains roughly 371 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2016mg per serving (88% 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 bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While dry bread is traditional, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as sourdough or whole grain. Just ensure it's dried out enough to hold the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it primarily uses bread, cheese, and eggs. However, ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses can contain animal rennet.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it and refrigerating it before baking. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).