| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 462 | 22g | 12g | 47g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 23g | 5g | 20g | 0.63g |
As a fusion between my Texan upbringing and a love for experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve found that unique dishes like the Saquicos and Cheese Casserole hold a special place in my heart. This recipe elegantly combines the intricate flavors of Saquico corn dough balls, mellow cheese, and the bright notes of mixed fresh fruits to create a literal melting pot of tastes that delight the palate.
A Touch of Southern Comfort
There’s something infinitely comforting about the Saquicos and Cheese Casserole. It speaks to Southern food’s magic – simple ingredients working together to create complex flavors. I love how it is similar to a fruit cobbler, yet dances on the fine line of a savory mac and cheese, bringing an exciting twist to the table.
Nourishing and Delightful
But it’s not just about the flavors. Like most of my recipes, the Saquicos and Cheese Casserole is packed with nutritional benefits. The fresh fruits provide a dose of antioxidants and fiber, while the cheese and Saquicos add a wonderful supply of protein. And let’s not forget the hidden benefits of spices like cinnamon, which has been linked to blood sugar control according to Harvard Health Blog.
Perfectly Versatile
The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility. It can shine as the main dish for a weekend brunch or a delightful dessert after a hearty dinner. For a heavier meal, try pairing it with a tangy roast chicken or a savory raw corn salad. This recipe is an open canvas waiting to add a dash of your creativity, and I hope it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups of cooked Saquicos (corn dough balls)
- 1 cup of shredded mild cheese
- 2 cups of mixed fruits (strawberries, bananas, apples), sliced
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 3 cups of milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of butter, for greasing the baking dish
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use the tablespoon of butter to grease a large baking dish, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
Step Two
In a bowl, mix together the sliced fruits, lemon juice, and sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for around 10 minutes until the fruits release their natural juices. In the meantime, proceed to the next step.
Step Three
In another large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Ensure this mixture is well combined.
Step Four
Add the cooked Saquicos (corn dough balls) to the greased baking dish. Pour the fruit mixture, along with the released fruit juice, over the Saquicos, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Step Five
Pour the milk-egg mixture over the Saquicos and fruit in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mild cheese evenly over the top.
Step Six
Bake in the preheated oven for around 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. The top should feel firm but still slightly springy to the touch.
Step Seven
Allow the casserole to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Saquicos and Cheese Casserole!
