The Golden Cloud Soufflé: No-Fuss, Feed-a-Crowd

I pulled this bubbling dish from the oven just as the family was gathering, and the way the golden, puffed top caught the light was a beautiful sight. There is something almost magical about a dish that looks this elegant but requires so little effort in the kitchen.

This is classic comfort at its best—a recipe that feels light and airy but is incredibly satisfying. It matters because it solves that age-old dilemma of wanting to serve something impressive for a crowd without spending your entire morning tethered to the stove.

It isn’t fussy. It isn’t temperamental. It is just a simple, honest meal that always earns a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs” when it hits the table.

No-Fuss, Feed-a-Crowd

Ingredients

• 8 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or Gruyère for a nuttier flavor)

• 4 cups sturdy bread cubes (sourdough or brioche work beautifully)

• 1/2 tsp dry mustard

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1 cup cooked ham or sautéed spinach for added heartiness

Instructions

1) Prepare the Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a deep 2-quart glass baking dish or casserole pan with butter.

2) Layer the Foundation Place the bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. If you are adding ham or spinach, tuck those pieces in among the bread.

3) Whisk the Custard In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is frothy and well-combined.

4) The Big Soak Pour the egg mixture slowly over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is soaked. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.

5) Bake to a Puff Place the dish on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is high, golden brown, and has a slight, tempting jiggle in the center.

6) Serve Immediately Like any good cloud, this dish is at its peak right out of the oven. Serve it while it’s still high and fluffy for the full “wow” factor.

Why This Recipe Works

• The bread cubes act as a structural anchor, preventing the eggs from collapsing like a traditional, finicky soufflé.

• A high egg-to-milk ratio ensures the dish puffs up beautifully while maintaining a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth interior.

• Dry mustard provides a subtle, sharp depth that cuts through the richness of the cheese and eggs.

• The deep glass dish allows for even heat distribution, resulting in a perfect golden crust all the way around.

Tips for Best Results

• Use “stale” or day-old bread; it absorbs the custard much better than fresh bread without becoming mushy.

• For the highest puff, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before whisking.

• Don’t open the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking, as the sudden change in temperature can cause the dish to settle.

• Grate your own cheese from a block for a smoother melt and a bolder flavor profile.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap the cheddar for goat cheese and add fresh herbs like chives or dill for a sophisticated brunch twist.

• Use gluten-free bread cubes to make this accessible for everyone at the table.

• For a sweet version, omit the cheese and mustard, and add 1/4 cup sugar, a teaspoon of cinnamon, and a handful of berries.

• Stir in a tablespoon of pesto into the egg mixture for a vibrant green color and an Italian flair.

FAQ – Feed-a-Crowd Soufflé

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble everything except the cheese the night before, let it soak in the fridge, and just add the cheese and bake it in the morning.

Why did my soufflé fall? It is natural for any puffed egg dish to settle slightly as it cools, but as long as you served it hot, the texture will still be perfect.

Can I use skim milk? You can, but whole milk or even a splash of heavy cream provides the fat necessary for that signature “cloud” texture.

How do I know it’s fully cooked? A knife inserted near the center should come out clean, and the top should feel firm to a light touch.

There is a simple, rustic joy in a meal that brings people together with so little fuss. I hope this golden, airy dish becomes a staple for your next big family gathering.