Imagine a dish that combines the heartiness of sausage, the richness of cheese, and the comforting texture of bread pudding - all in one mouthwatering creation! This Savory Sausage Bread Pudding is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that will transform your dinner table from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for weekend brunches, family gatherings, or when you're craving something truly satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 6 cups cubed bread
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into crumbled pieces until it's fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they become soft and slightly translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture, gently folding to ensure all bread pieces are coated. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow bread to absorb the liquid.
- Fold in the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheese into the bread mixture.
- Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the pudding to set.
- Slice and serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture more effectively without becoming mushy.
- Don't skip the resting time: Letting the bread soak in the egg mixture for 5 minutes ensures maximum flavor absorption and a consistent texture.
- Drain the sausage thoroughly: Remove excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
- Customize your cheese: While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, feel free to experiment with different varieties like cheddar, gruyère, or a cheese blend.
- For a crispy top, broil the pudding for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to achieve a golden, crunchy surface.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, then baked when ready to serve - perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 180mg
