Name: Grilled Cheese Sandwich Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: White bread slices; Cheddar cheese, sliced; Mozzarella cheese, sliced; Butter; Milk; Flour; Mustard powder; Salt and pepper

Are you ready to turn the classic grilled cheese sandwich into a mouth-watering casserole that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests? Look no further than this Grilled Cheese Sandwich Casserole recipe, a creative spin on a beloved comfort food that is perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.

Grilled cheese sandwiches evoke a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of crisp, golden-brown bread with gooey melted cheese in the middle. By transforming this simple dish into a casserole, you can serve up those warm, fuzzy feelings in a form that's perfect for sharing. This casserole combines the classic elements of a grilled cheese sandwich with a few surprising twists to enhance the flavors and textures.

Ingredients

White or sourdough bread (12 slices)
Butter (½ cup, softened)
Cheddar cheese (3 cups, shredded)
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Cream cheese (½ cup, softened)
Whole milk (1 cup)
Eggs (2, large)
Mustard (1 tablespoon, optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Place half of the slices butter-side-down in the baking dish, covering the bottom as much as possible. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the bread, and top with the remaining slices, butter-side-up, pressing down slightly.
Create the Custard Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, milk, eggs, and mustard (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread layers, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the center is set.
Final Touches: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives to add a fresh, colorful touch.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled cheese sandwich casserole is wonderfully versatile. Serve it hot as a main dish with a side of tomato soup for dipping, emulating the classic grilled cheese and tomato soup pairing. It's also great with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Casserole is more than just a dish; it's a fun, shared experience that brings people together. It retains all the comforting qualities of the sandwiches we all know and love, with a communal twist that makes it perfect for gatherings. Whether it's a family dinner, a potluck with friends, or just a treat to spice up your meal routine, this casserole promises to be a hit. Enjoy the gooey goodness and the smiles it brings!