Williamsburg Souffle
A hearty, cheesy ham and mushroom souffle with crisp bread layers, perfect for brunch or family dinners, offering rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crusts off bread, then cut into bite-size pieces.
- Arrange bread pieces in a well buttered 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Heat butter in a skillet and sauté mushrooms and minced onion for about 5 minutes.
- Spoon the sautéed mushroom and onion mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
- Top with diced cooked ham.
- Combine shredded Cheddar cheese with flour and sprinkle over the ham.
- In a bowl, beat eggs with mustard, half and half, garlic salt, and salt to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture into the dish over the ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F for 1 hour or until puffed and lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese and substituting the half and half with a mixture of milk and cream. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. Ensure the bread is truly day-old to prevent it from becoming too soggy. If you don't have ham, cooked sausage or bacon can be a delicious alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Williamsburg Soufflé with a fresh side salad or some sliced Cherry Tomatoes(Hors D'Oeuvres) for a delightful contrast. This dish is perfect for brunch, and can be paired with a light fruit salad or breakfast pastries. Consider serving it alongside classic American recipes like Baked Pork Chops And Gravy for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This dish can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it versatile for breakfast or brunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Williamsburg Souffle contains roughly 1054 calories, with 34g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1613mg per serving (70% 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 soufflé ahead of time?
Yes, this soufflé is perfect for preparing ahead. You can assemble it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a great option for an Overnight Breakfast.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Day-old egg bread is ideal, but you can also use challah or brioche for a richer flavor. The key is to use bread that can hold its shape without becoming too soggy. If you prefer a whole grain option, a hearty whole wheat bread can work as well.
Can I substitute the cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a sharp white cheddar for a unique twist. Just ensure that whatever cheese you choose melts well to maintain that creamy texture.
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).