Savory Ham and Cheddar Bread Pudding
Delight in this rich and savory Ham and Cheddar Bread Pudding, a comforting dish inspired by the cherished recipes from 'Grandma's Casserole.' Perfect for a festive brunch or a cozy family gathering, this dish combines buttery French bread with layers of succulent ham and gooey cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a creamy egg mixture. It’s an ideal way to use leftover bread and ham, transforming them into a luscious centerpiece that’s sure to impress. Serve it for Easter breakfast or any special occasion to treat your loved ones to a hearty and indulgent meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
French bread
8 ounces (cut into 1-inch cubes)
butter
3 tablespoons (softened)
ham
8 ounces (diced)
cheddar cheese
2 cups (shredded (mild to sharp according to taste))
eggs
3 (beaten)
milk
2 cups (whole or 2%)
dry mustard
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
white pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Grease an 11x7-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3
Spread softened butter generously on one side of each slice of French bread.
4
Cut the buttered bread into 1-inch cubes and layer them evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5
Evenly distribute the diced ham over the bread cubes, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
6
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Whisk in the milk, dry mustard, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
7
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, ham, and cheese, ensuring all pieces are soaked thoroughly.
8
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
9
Once chilled, uncover the dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
10
Let cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
11
Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of this savory bread pudding.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Ham and Cheddar Bread Pudding?
It is a rich and savory casserole made with cubed French bread, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese, all soaked in a seasoned egg and milk mixture then baked until golden.
What type of bread is recommended for this recipe?
French bread is recommended for this recipe, specifically 8 ounces cut into 1-inch cubes for the best texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while cheddar is suggested, you can use other melting cheeses like Swiss, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack depending on your preference.
How long does the bread pudding need to refrigerate?
The dish should be refrigerated for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
What size baking dish is required?
An 11x7-inch baking dish is the appropriate size for these ingredient quantities.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does it take to bake?
It typically takes 45 to 50 minutes to bake until it is puffed and golden brown.
Can I use leftover ham?
Absolutely, this recipe is an ideal way to use leftover ham from a holiday meal.
Is it necessary to butter the bread slices?
Yes, spreading softened butter on the bread slices before cubing them adds richness and flavor to the finished pudding.
What kind of milk should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of milk, and you can use either whole milk or 2 percent milk.
Can I use something other than ham?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even smoked turkey.
How do I know when the bread pudding is finished cooking?
It is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ham or replace it with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
What spices are used in the egg mixture?
The egg mixture is seasoned with dry mustard, salt, and white pepper.
Can I substitute white pepper?
If you do not have white pepper, you can use black pepper, though white pepper is preferred for its milder flavor and appearance.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, grease the dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the bread pudding from sticking.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, pre-shredded cheddar cheese works fine, though freshly shredded cheese often melts more smoothly.
Is this recipe good for a holiday brunch?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being perfect for Easter breakfast or festive family gatherings.
Can I add herbs to this dish?
Yes, you can garnish the finished pudding with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra color and flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Savory Ham and Cheddar Bread Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pudding. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and heat in a 350 degree oven until warmed through.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
You can substitute some or all of the milk with heavy cream for an even richer, more indulgent custard.
What if I don't have dry mustard?
You can substitute dry mustard with a teaspoon of prepared Dijon mustard whisked into the liquid mixture.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe requires 3 eggs, beaten until smooth.
Can I prepare this more than 24 hours in advance?
It is best when baked within 24 hours of preparation to prevent the bread from becoming too mushy.
Does the bread need to be stale?
While fresh bread works, using slightly dry or day-old French bread helps it absorb the custard better without falling apart.
Can I use a larger baking dish?
If you use a larger dish, the pudding will be thinner and may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
What can I serve with this bread pudding?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted tomatoes, or a side of seasonal fruit.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a 9x13-inch pan, though you may need to increase the baking time slightly.