Savory Breakfast Bread Pudding

Savory Breakfast Bread Pudding is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for starting the day with a satisfying meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors and textures of ingredients like sourdough bread, eggs, whole milk, and Dijon mustard with a hint of nutmeg for a touch of warmth.

The savory elements are further enhanced by the inclusion of red onions, sliced Gala apples, torn pieces of ham, and grated cheddar cheese, creating a mouth-watering blend that caters to those who appreciate a good, robust breakfast.

Prepared by soaking the bread in a seasoned egg and milk mixture and then baked until set, this dish is both easy to prepare and delicious to enjoy, making it an excellent choice for weekend brunches or special morning gatherings.

Ingredients

• olive oil, to taste, for greasing the baking dish
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 12 ounces sourdough bread, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 small red onion, cut into 1/4-inch-thick wedges
• 1 Gala apple, cored and thinly sliced
• 4 ounces sliced ham, torn into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2 -Grease a 2 1/2-3-quart baking dish with the olive oil.

Step 3 -In a large bowl, add the eggs, the milk, the mustard, the nutmeg, the salt, and the pepper and whisk to combine.

Step 4 -Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and let them sit, tossing occasionally, until they are thoroughly soaked, about 5 minutes.

Step 5 -Add the onions, the apples, the ham, and the cheddar and fold to combine.

Step 6 -Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Step 7 -Bake until it is set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, about 45-50 minutes. If the bread pudding is browning too quickly, cover it with foil.

Step 8 -Allow the bread pudding to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 9 -Serve.

FAQ for Savory Breakfast Bread Pudding

1. Can I use a different type of bread instead of sourdough? Yes, you can use other types of bread for this recipe. A sturdy loaf that can absorb the egg mixture without falling apart, such as ciabatta or a hearty whole grain bread, would work well.

2. Is there a substitute for whole milk in this recipe? Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with any other milk of your choice, including non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, to cater to dietary preferences or restrictions.

3. Can I make this bread pudding vegetarian? Yes, to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and substance.

4. How long can I store leftover bread pudding? Leftover bread pudding can be covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through before serving.

5. Can this dish be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this bread pudding the night before. Simply assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, bake as directed. This can help the flavors meld together even more.

6. What can I serve with this bread pudding? This savory bread pudding can be served with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or your favorite breakfast meats for a complete meal. It pairs well with both hot coffee and fresh juices.