Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a twist on traditional comfort food, combining the flavors of a charcuterie board with the warmth and heartiness of a baked casserole. The crusty French bread soaks up the flavorful mixture of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s simple to make, yet guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home. With a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, salami, and Italian sausage, this casserole brings everything you love about charcuterie boards into one pan.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of crusty French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup diced salami
• 1 cup sliced black olives
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Bread Base

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni, salami, olives, cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion. Toss everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Combine the Mixtures

• Pour the egg mixture over the bread and charcuterie mix. Stir gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.

5. Layer the Cheeses

• Add half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the bread mixture, stirring to incorporate. Then, pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Top with Remaining Cheese

• Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake the Casserole

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meats and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version of the casserole.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or jalapeños for some extra heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! You can substitute the French bread with sourdough or even whole wheat bread for a different flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes when ready to serve.

4. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, using pre-cooked sausage will save time. Just crumble it into the mix and proceed with the recipe as directed.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To make this casserole spicier, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Of course! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts, to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Charcuterie Board Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the delicious flavors of a charcuterie board into a hearty, cheesy casserole. It’s the perfect dish for any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive parties. With its savory meats, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheeses, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and indulge in this comforting twist on traditional comfort food!

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