by: salvagedrecipes

CLassic French Cheese Soufflé

Cheese Soufflé
This nostalgic American Cheese Soufflé hails from a well-loved vintage recipe notebook. Once a staple of home kitchens, this version swaps sharp cheddar for creamy, melty American cheese, giving it a smooth, rich texture that's irresistibly comforting. Soufflés were often served at weekend brunches or modest dinner parties, admired for their airy elegance and rewarding simplicity. With pantry basics and a bit of folding finesse, this dish rises to every occasion, both literally and figuratively.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Brunch
Cuisine French
Servings 4
Calories 295 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 3½ cups hot milk
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup American cheese (shredded )
  • 4 eggs (separated)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Sauce

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat
  • Stir in flour to form a smooth roux
  • Gradually whisk in hot milk until the mixture thickens
  • Season with salt and cayenne pepper

Step 2: Add Cheese

  • Remove from heat and stir in shredded American cheese
  • Mix until smooth and creamy

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks

  • Let mixture cool slightly
  • Beat in egg yolks one at a time

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites

  • In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form

Step 5: Fold and Bake

  • Gently fold egg whites into cheese mixture
  • Pour into a greased soufflé dish
  • Bake in a moderate oven (350°F / 175°C) for 50 minutes or until puffed and golden

Tips

  • Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to prevent lumps.
  • Use a strongly flavored cheese (Gruyère or sharp cheddar) for the best lift and taste.
  • Separate eggs while cold, but beat whites at room temperature for maximum volume.
  • Do not open the oven door during baking, soufflés can collapse easily.
  • Fold whites gently using a “scoop and turn” motion to maintain airiness.
  • Add herbs such as chives, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Stir in a pinch of nutmeg for classic French flavor.
  • Swap half the cheese for cooked spinach or mushrooms for a variation.
  • Serve immediately—soufflés fall within minutes of leaving the oven.

Nutrition

Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 16gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 215mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 190mgSugar: 4gVitamin A: 950IUCalcium: 310mgIron: 1.1mg
Keyword baked eggs, beef cheese, classic french, comfort food, creamy, eggs, heirloom cooking, holiday brunch, savory soufflé, souffle, vintage recipes
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