Easy Cheese Souffles

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter, plus additional for buttering the ramekins
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 3 large egg whites, beaten until stiff

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Butter four 1-cup ramekins.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir until smooth. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is thick and creamy. Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a medium bowl, beat the egg yolks until light and fluffy. Gradually add the cooled sauce to the egg yolks, stirring until blended. Stir in the parsley and cheese.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cheese mixture until blended.
6. Spoon the mixture into the prepared ramekins. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake until the souffles are puffy and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
7. Serve hot.

Interesting Facts

• Souffles were first created in 17th century France.
• The word "souffle" comes from the French verb "souffler", which means "to breathe".
• Souffles can be made with a variety of flavors and ingredients, not just cheese!
• Souffles are best served right away, as they will deflate as they cool.