Broccoli-Cheese Puff

Name: Broccoli-Cheese Puff
Ingredients: 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli; 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine, softened; 10 slices day-old white bread; 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese; 6 eggs; 3 1/2 cups milk; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper

9 ingredients

9 steps

Ingredients

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine, softened
10 slices day-old white bread
12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
6 eggs
3 1/2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions

1

In small saucepan, cook broccoli until tender according to package directions, separating broccoli as directed. Drain and set aside.
2

Thoroughly grease the inside of 9x13x2-inch ovenproof baking pan using the butter or margarine.
3

Using a large serrated knife, trim off and reserve crusts from bread slices. Using a 2.75-inch-diameter doughnut cutter, cut doughnut-shaped rounds from 8 slices of the bread. Cut bread trimmings and remaining 2 slices of bread into 1/4-inch cubes.
4

Coarsely shred Cheddar cheese. Place cheese, bread cubes, and drained chopped broccoli into a large mixing bowl. Toss well and spoon into the prepared baking pan.
5

Arrange doughnut-shaped bread rings on top of broccoli mixture, overlapping them if necessary. Beat eggs in same mixing bowl with a wire whisk or a rotary or portable electric mixer. Add milk, dried basil leaves, salt, and papper. Beat until smooth.
6

Pour seasoned egg-milk mixture over broccoli and bread in pan. Let stand 30 minutes. (This much can be done up to 1 day in advance. Cover broccoli mixture with aluminum foil, removing from 'fridge about 1 1/4 hours before you plan to serve dinner.).
7

Heat oven to 350°.
8

Place uncovered pan on center rack in oven. Bake 60 to 65 minutes or until mixture is puffed and lightly browned, or when a knife inserted in center of puff comes out clean.
9

Serve immediately.