This dish is always a hit at events—it’s the one everyone finishes first.
Hearty Sausage & Herb Bread Pudding
This savory bread pudding turns a sweet classic into a rich, filling main dish. Packed with seasoned Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and creamy custard, it’s baked with day-old bread and Parmesan into a golden, satisfying meal—perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Day-old bread, cubed | 8 cups |
| Italian sausage (no casing) | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh rosemary, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Large eggs | 6 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup (divided) |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook Sausage & Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Brown the sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Stir in thyme, rosemary, and parsley; cook for another minute. - Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cream. Stir in ½ cup Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. - Combine Bread & Sausage:
Add bread cubes to the custard, tossing until well coated. Let sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid. Gently mix in the cooked sausage and herb mixture. - Assemble & Bake:
Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining ½ cup Parmesan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden on top and fully set in the center. - Cool & Serve:
Let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm as a standalone entrée or alongside a fresh salad.
Tip:
Use crusty or artisan bread for best texture, and try mixing in spinach, mushrooms, or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
