Savory Bread Puddings: Elevating Leftover Bread into Delectable Casseroles

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed (approximately 8 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups cooked sausage or ham, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened. Incorporate the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Assemble the Bread Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, diced sausage or ham, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
3. Prepare the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the bread is fully soaked.
4. Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
5. Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs.

Conclusion:

Savory bread puddings offer a versatile and gratifying option for transforming leftover bread into a delicious casserole. This dish is perfect for any meal or occasion and is bound to impress with its rich flavors and comforting texture. Experiment with various ingredients to discover your ideal combination and enjoy the process of crafting this flavorful casserole.