This Cheesy Bacon and Spinach Bread Pudding is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s easy to make and a great way to use up stale bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter / olive oil / oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (about 500g) – a hearty loaf like sourdough or ciabatta works well
- 1 cup cooked bacon, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese of choice
- 6 large eggs
- 1 370 ml can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped, for garnish or dried herbs of choice
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
- Preheat the oven to 380°F (180°C) or preheat the air fryer to 340°F (180°C).
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Bread Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked bacon, shredded cheese, and the spinach mixture.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and mustard powder (if using).
- Combine and Soak:
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, ensuring all pieces of bread are well coated.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- If using an air fryer, bake for about 12-13 minutes or until cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh or dried herbs before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a variety of cheeses for extra flavor.
- Ensure the bread is stale for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too soggy.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spinach: Adds vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber.
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for any meal.
- Versatile: Great for using up leftover bread and customizable with different ingredients.
- Flavorful: Packed with cheese, bacon, and fresh spinach.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Bacon and Spinach Bread Pudding is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy making and eating this comforting recipe. Bon appétit!