Surprise Sandwiches
Surprise Sandwiches are a comforting, hearty dish featuring layered bread, cheese, meats, and a creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a family meal or gathering, this baked casserole combines savory flavors and a rich texture, making it an easy and satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the night before.
- Grease an 8 x 10-inch pan with butter or oleo.
- Place 6 slices of bread (crusts removed) in the bottom of the pan.
- Cover each slice with a slice of American cheese.
- Spread prepared mustard on each cheese slice.
- Cover each with any of the listed meats (ground ham, tuna, salmon, diced chicken, or turkey).
- Butter 6 more slices of bread and place them on top, buttered side up.
- Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the assembled layers.
- Mix milk with salt and pour over the bread layers.
- Spread mushroom sauce over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake in a preheated oven until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack alongside American cheese. If you want a healthier option, substitute the ground ham with turkey or chicken sausage. Ensure your bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the egg mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the meats with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
These Surprise Sandwiches make a great brunch dish and pair well with a fresh side salad or a fruit platter for a balanced meal. You can also serve them with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato bisque, for a comforting combination. For a more robust meal, consider serving alongside Southwestern Potatoes or My Favorite Fried Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the top from burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Sandwiches contains roughly 29 calories, with 3g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 522mg per serving (23% 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 different types of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as whole grain, sourdough, or even bagels. Just ensure the bread can hold up to the moisture from the egg and milk mixture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, such as mustard and sauces, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without gluten concerns.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a crowd?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. Simply assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake it in the morning. It's a great option for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
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).