Cheese Soufflé

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1.5-quart soufflé dish and dust with flour, tapping out excess.

Step 2

In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk, stirring constantly until thickened and smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4

Stir in 1 cup grated cheddar, 3 egg yolks, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp pepper until cheese melts and mixture is smooth.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, beat 4 egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Fold one-third into the cheese mixture to lighten, then gently fold in the rest until no white streaks remain.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden brown on top, and the center jiggles slightly when shaken.

Step 7

Serve immediately, as the soufflé will deflate within minutes.