Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight is a dish that dances on your taste buds, mixing creamy textures with savory goodness. Picture this: a luscious blend of cheese, tender broccoli, and smoky ham baked to golden perfection, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that draw everyone in like a moth to a flame.
Every bite is a celebration of flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food for cozy nights or festive gatherings. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was the star of my family’s holiday dinners. The anticipation builds as you pull it from the oven, its cheesy crust glistening under the kitchen lights, promising an amazing flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding is not only easy to make but also packed with delightful flavors that will impress your guests
- Its visually appealing layers make it a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for brunch or dinner, and you can easily adapt it based on seasonal ingredients
Ingredients for Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Stale Bread: Use day-old bread for the best texture; French or Italian varieties work wonderfully.
Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together while adding richness; you’ll need about four large ones.
Milk: Whole milk gives the pudding creaminess, but you can substitute with low-fat milk if preferred.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor; it’s the star of this cheesy delight.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen works; just ensure they are chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Diced Ham: Use leftover ham or deli slices; they add a smoky flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and generously spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This will help your cheesy creation slide right out once it’s done baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut your stale bread into cubes. If you’re feeling wild and adventurous, mix different types of bread for added texture and flavor. Toss those cubes into a large bowl and set them aside as you move on to the next step.
Step 3: Whisk Together Eggs and Milk
In another bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture will create that custardy base we all adore in bread pudding. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper here; they are your trusty sidekicks in this flavor journey!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes. Gently fold in the broccoli florets, diced ham, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure every piece of bread gets coated; we want everyone partying in this cheesy goodness!
Step 5: Bake It
Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top so it’s evenly distributed—let’s avoid any dramatic peaks or valleys here! Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until it’s puffed up and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Cut into squares and watch as everyone digs in greedily! For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle some additional cheese on top before serving.
Now you have a scrumptious Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight ready to steal the show at any meal! Enjoy every cheesy bite; I promise it’ll be worth every calorie!
You Must Know
- This Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight isn’t just comfort food; it’s a hug in a casserole dish
- The creamy texture and savory flavors transform leftovers into a gourmet experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings. Then, sauté the broccoli and ham until fragrant. Layer the bread cubes, pour the egg mixture over them, and sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or kale if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a delightful twist. Add spices like garlic powder or nutmeg for extra flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping it covered to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread for better texture; it soaks up the custard without turning mushy
- Don’t skip the cheese—it’s the star of this show!
- Experiment with veggies based on what’s in season for added freshness
I still remember the first time I made this Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight for my family. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I felt like a culinary rock star!
FAQs:
What is Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight?
Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight is a savory dish that combines bread, broccoli, ham, and a rich cheese sauce. This comforting recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch and can also serve as a hearty side dish for dinner gatherings.
How do I store leftovers of Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight?
To store leftovers, cool the Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight to room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold!
Can I customize the ingredients in this bread pudding recipe?
Yes! You can customize your Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight by swapping out ingredients. For instance, substitute the ham with cooked bacon or turkey for a different flavor profile. Additionally, you can add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance its nutritional value and taste.
Is Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight freezes well. After cooking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.
Conclusion for Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight:
In conclusion, Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough for any meal. Whether served at breakfast or as a side at dinner, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste preferences! Enjoy this comforting meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight is a comforting dish that brings together creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and smoky ham in a satisfying casserole. Baked to golden perfection, this savory bread pudding is ideal for brunch or dinner gatherings, transforming leftover ingredients into a delightful meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed (French or Italian)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced ham (leftover or deli)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes. Fold in broccoli, ham, and Parmesan cheese until evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
