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### **Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Bread**
1. **Cut the bread**: Begin by cutting the bread into cubes, about 1-inch in size. You can remove the crusts if you prefer a smoother texture, but keeping them on adds a nice crunch to the casserole.
2. **Toast the bread (optional)**: For a slightly crispier texture, you can toast the bread cubes in the oven or on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until lightly golden. This step is optional but adds a bit of extra texture to the casserole.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base**
1. **Mix the wet ingredients**: In a mixing bowl, combine the can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
2. **Add cheese**: Stir in about 1 cup of the shredded cheese into the soup mixture, reserving the remaining cheese for the top of the casserole.
#### **Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. **Layer the bread cubes**: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish, making sure it covers the bottom.
2. **Pour the mixture**: Pour the creamy soup and cheese mixture over the bread cubes, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Gently press down the bread to ensure it soaks up all the liquid.
3. **Top with cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a nice cheesy layer that will melt and bubble beautifully as it bakes.
#### **Step 4: Bake the Casserole**
1. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. You may want to cover the casserole with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent it from becoming too brown before it’s fully cooked.
2. **Check for doneness**: Once it’s baked, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Serve your **Cheese Sandwich Casserole** warm, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can even serve it with a side of cooked bacon or sausage for added protein.
### **Tips for the Perfect Cheese Sandwich Casserole**
– **Customize your cheese**: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. A blend of cheeses can make the casserole even more indulgent!
– **Add vegetables**: If you want to sneak in some veggies, try adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even sautéed onions to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
– **Add meat**: If you want a heartier version, try adding cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the casserole. Just chop the meat into small pieces and stir it into the mixture before baking.
– **Leftovers**: This casserole makes great leftovers! It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
### **Why This Recipe Works**
Betty Crocker’s **Cheese Sandwich Casserole** is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. The bread cubes soak up the creamy, cheesy mixture, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is comforting. The melted cheese on top adds a golden, bubbly finish that will make your mouth water.
This casserole is ideal for a quick family dinner or as a side dish for larger gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
### **Final Thoughts**
**Betty Crocker’s Cheese Sandwich Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make, satisfying, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re feeding your family after a busy day or preparing a dish for a weekend gathering, this casserole will hit the spot every time. Plus, with its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Add in your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses, and enjoy this timeless, delicious dish that’s always a hit at the table!
So, next time you’re craving something comforting and easy to make, whip up Betty Crocker’s **Cheese Sandwich Casserole**—you won’t regret it!
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