Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, gooey slice of Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham. The cheesy aroma wafts through the air, mingling with the earthy scent of broccoli and the savory hints of ham, promising comfort in every bite. perfect cheesy appetizer It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you want to impress your taste buds while relaxing at home.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about bringing people together. Picture this: a cozy family gathering where everyone’s laughing and sharing stories, all while digging into this delicious creation. hearty comfort dish Trust me when I say that the anticipation of cutting into this bread pudding will have your guests lining up for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating an unforgettable dish that looks stunning on any table
- You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or meats to suit any palate
- Ideal for brunch or dinner, it’s a versatile recipe sure to please everyone!
I still remember the first time I served this dish at a family get-together—everyone went back for thirds, and I ended up being the star chef of the evening!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Day-Old Bread: Use crusty bread like French or sourdough; it absorbs the custard beautifully without getting mushy.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds a nutty flavor that elevates the whole dish.
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Broccoli: Fresh or frozen works; just ensure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
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Diced Ham: Use leftover ham for convenience; it adds protein and great flavor to the pudding.
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Eggs: Large eggs are ideal as they bind everything together while adding richness.
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Milk: Whole milk makes this custard creamy; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if desired. creamy pasta dish. For more inspiration, check out this comforting pasta dish recipe.
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Salt and Pepper: Don’t skip these essentials; they enhance the flavors and balance out the richness.
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Dried Herbs (Optional): Thyme or Italian seasoning can add a delightful twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
Chop and Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté broccoli until tender but still vibrant green. The aroma of sautéing veggies will fill your kitchen, making you hungry already.
Mix Custard Base: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan. Feel free to throw in some herbs here if you like extra flavor.
Add Bread and Fillings: Tear the day-old bread into chunks and add it to the custard mixture along with sautéed broccoli and diced ham. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour everything into your greased baking dish and sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top. Bake for about 40-45 minutes until puffed up and golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Let It Cool Before Serving: Allow the bread pudding to cool for five minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape better while serving—nobody likes a soggy slice!
Enjoy this delightful Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham as a centerpiece at dinner parties or as comfort food on lazy weekends! With each bite bursting with cheesy goodness and tender bits of broccoli and ham, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe in your life! another cheesy bread pudding. For more inspiration, check out this chicken, rice, and broccoli recipe.
You Must Know
- Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham is a delightful comfort dish that’s easy to make and perfect for leftovers
- The creamy texture, combined with the savory ham and vibrant broccoli, creates a dish full of flavor
- It’s always a hit at family gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by sautéing the broccoli and ham together before mixing them into the bread pudding mixture. This enhances their flavor and ensures even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for spinach or kale, and experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for added depth of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use day-old bread for better texture; it absorbs liquid without becoming mushy
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream to your egg mixture
- Don’t skip on seasoning; it makes all the difference in flavor!
I remember the first time I served this dish at a family potluck; everyone raved about it! My aunt even asked for seconds, which is her highest compliment.
FAQ
Can I make Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and bake it just before serving.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Stale or day-old bread works best as it absorbs flavors without getting soggy.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for later enjoyment.
Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham is a comforting, savory dish that combines creamy custard, hearty bread, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this recipe delights taste buds with every cheesy bite. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your liking, making it an ideal choice for brunch or dinner. Your guests will be lining up for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old crusty bread (torn into chunks)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced ham
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Sauté broccoli in a skillet over medium heat until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan.
- Add torn bread, sautéed broccoli, and diced ham to the egg mixture; stir gently to combine.
- Pour into baking dish and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for five minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (175g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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