Description
Comfort meets creativity in this Betty Crocker’s cheese sandwich casserole, blending classic deli bread with melted cheese and creamy texture. Simple ingredients unite for a hearty meal that brings family together around the table.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Protein:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup cooked ham or turkey, sliced
- 1 cup crispy bacon bits
- 4 large eggs
Bread Base:
- 12 slices bread (white, whole wheat, sourdough, or brioche)
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Generously coat each bread slice with a layer of softened butter, ensuring full coverage on one side.
- Arrange half of the buttered bread slices in a well-greased rectangular baking dish, positioning the buttered side facing downward.
- Create a decadent cheese layer by carefully spreading cheddar and Swiss cheese across the initial bread foundation.
- Complete the sandwich base by positioning the remaining bread slices on top, with buttered surfaces facing upward.
- Craft a smooth custard mixture by vigorously whisking eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Gently cascade the egg mixture over the prepared sandwich layers, applying subtle pressure to help the bread absorb the liquid completely.
- Allow the casserole to rest and soak for approximately 10-15 minutes, enabling the bread to fully integrate with the custard.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and transfer to a preheated oven set at 350°F.
- Bake the covered casserole for 25 minutes, maintaining a consistent temperature.
- Remove the foil covering and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the surface transforms into a crisp, golden-brown masterpiece.
Notes
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better absorption of the egg mixture, preventing a soggy texture.
- Cheese Flexibility: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère, provolone, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious twist.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast or brunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 200 mg