Broccoli-Cheese Puff - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine, softened
10 slices day-old white bread
12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
6 eggs
3 1/2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Preparation

In small saucepan, cook broccoli until tender according to package directions, separating broccoli as directed. Drain and set aside.
Thoroughly grease the inside of 9x13x2-inch ovenproof baking pan using the butter or margarine.
Using a large serrated knife, trim off and reserve crusts from bread slices. Using a 2.75-inch-diameter doughnut cutter, cut doughnut-shaped rounds from 8 slices of the bread. Cut bread trimmings and remaining 2 slices of bread into 1/4-inch cubes.
Coarsely shred Cheddar cheese. Place cheese, bread cubes, and drained chopped broccoli into a large mixing bowl. Toss well and spoon into the prepared baking pan.
Arrange doughnut-shaped bread rings on top of broccoli mixture, overlapping them if necessary. Beat eggs in same mixing bowl with a wire whisk or a rotary or portable electric mixer. Add milk, dried basil leaves, salt, and papper. Beat until smooth.
Pour seasoned egg-milk mixture over broccoli and bread in pan. Let stand 30 minutes. (This much can be done up to 1 day in advance. Cover broccoli mixture with aluminum foil, removing from 'fridge about 1 1/4 hours before you plan to serve dinner.).
Heat oven to 350\u00b0.
Place uncovered pan on center rack in oven. Bake 60 to 65 minutes or until mixture is puffed and lightly browned, or when a knife inserted in center of puff comes out clean.
Serve immediately.