A Nostalgic, Cheesy Comfort Dish
Betty Crocker’s Cheese Sandwich Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, cheesy, baked dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal. With layers of toasted bread, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy custard base, this casserole is easy to make and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a classic recipe that brings back memories of cozy home-cooked meals.
Why I Love This Recipe?
There’s something nostalgic about the simplicity of this casserole. It reminds me of childhood lunches—grilled cheese sandwiches dunked into a bowl of tomato soup. This dish takes that idea to the next level, baking the sandwiches into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
What makes this version special? The custard mixture binds everything together, creating a texture that’s both crispy on top and soft in the center. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add ham, bacon, or different cheeses to customize the flavor.
Ingredient Notes
- Bread: White or whole wheat works best, but sourdough or brioche adds a richer flavor.
- Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Swiss gives a great balance of meltiness and sharpness.
- Eggs & Milk: Creates the custard base that holds the casserole together.
- Butter: Adds a rich, toasty flavor when used for buttering the bread.
- Mustard (Optional): A little Dijon adds a subtle tang and depth.
Substitutions:
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or American cheese for different flavors.
- Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer texture.
- Add sliced ham or turkey for a heartier casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each bread slice and place half of them butter-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Add the Cheese: Layer shredded cheese over the bread, then top with the remaining slices, butter-side up.
- Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble & Soak: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sandwiches, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Let the Bread Soak: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes before baking helps the bread absorb the custard for the best texture.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Toast the Bread First: For an extra crispy top, lightly toast the bread before assembling.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with tomato soup for a classic combo.
- Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
- Add a side of pickles or coleslaw for a tangy contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked for up to 2 months, then bake straight from frozen (adding extra baking time).
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Can I use different types of bread? Absolutely! Sourdough, brioche, or even rye add unique flavors.
How do I make it extra crispy? Sprinkle some extra cheese on top and broil for a few minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Betty Crocker’s Cheese Sandwich Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you make it for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it out, and let me know how you like to customize yours!
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Betty Crocker’s Cheese Sandwich Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nostalgic, cheesy comfort dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal. With layers of toasted bread, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy custard base, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy weekend meal. It’s a classic that brings back memories of grilled cheese sandwiches dunked in tomato soup, but taken to the next level!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 12 slices bread (white, whole wheat, sourdough, or brioche)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tbsp butter, softened (for greasing the pan)
For the Custard Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked ham or turkey, sliced
- 1 cup crispy bacon bits
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bread:
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place half of the slices butter-side down in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
-
Add the Cheese:
- Layer cheddar and Swiss cheese over the bread. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
-
Make the Custard:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard (optional), salt, and pepper.
-
Assemble & Soak:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sandwiches, gently pressing down so the bread absorbs the liquid. Let sit for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
-
Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Let the Bread Soak: Allow the casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes before baking to help the bread absorb the custard mixture.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the melting process.
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the bread before assembling for an extra crispy top.
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 95mg