After a busy week filled with takeout and quick fixes, the comforting embrace of homemade food is something I truly crave. One evening, I had leftover bread begging for attention, and a few forgotten vegetables in the fridge were pleading with me not to waste them. Thus, my culinary adventure led me to create this scrumptious Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham—a dish that transformed ordinary leftovers into something truly extraordinary.
The moment the oven door opens, and the delightful aroma of golden parmesan blends with the earthy scent of broccoli and savory ham wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but smile. It’s the kind of dish that warms hearts and fills bellies, perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in. Not only does this recipe tackle food waste head-on, but it also manages to turn simple ingredients into a delicious and satisfying meal.
Join me as I take you through the steps to create this easy, flavorful masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham irresistible?
Comforting: This dish brings the warmth of home cooking to your table, turning simple leftovers into a cozy meal you’ll crave.
Versatile: Feel free to swap in any leftover veggies or proteins you have on hand for a personal touch.
Effortless: With just a few steps and basic ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of cheesy goodness and hearty veggies is sure to impress family and friends.
Time-Saving: Bake ahead and enjoy as a meal prep option, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Ingredients
For the Base
- Bread – A crunchy crust is best achieved using crusty leftover bread. Substitute stale ciabatta with white bread if needed.
- Broccoli – Fresh or blanched leftovers add nutrition and texture to your pudding.
- Ham – Provides savory protein; feel free to substitute with leftover chicken or omit for a vegetarian option.
For the Flavor
- Parmesan Cheese – Delivers a rich, savory flavor; substitute with cheddar or Gruyère for different tastes.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together; be sure they’re beaten well for the best consistency.
- Milk – Adds moisture; any milk, dairy or non-dairy, can substitute regular milk.
- Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg – These spices enhance overall flavor, so adjust according to your taste.
By gathering these wholesome ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham that sates your hunger and delights your taste buds!
How to Make Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent the pudding from sticking, ensuring every bite is as delectable as the last.
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Tear bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. The more uneven the pieces, the more texture you’ll get in the final dish!
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Blanch broccoli if using fresh, then combine it with the torn bread. This will not only add nutrition but color to your dish, making it visually appealing as well.
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Whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings in a separate bowl. This mixture will bind everything nicely, so make sure it’s mixed well until it’s smooth and beautifully blended.
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Pour the egg mixture over the bread and broccoli, ensuring even coating. This helps every piece absorb the rich flavors, creating a creamy texture.
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Fold in diced ham and grated parmesan until everything is well combined. The ham adds a satisfying heartiness, and the cheese contributes a lovely richness you’ll adore.
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Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and bake for 50-60 minutes until set and golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling and has a beautifully browned crust!
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Cool slightly before serving. This brief rest allows the pudding to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham?
Creating a full meal around this savory bread pudding elevates your dining experience, delighting both the senses and the soul.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pudding, providing a refreshing crunch with every bite.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of warm garlic bread complements the cheesy pudding perfectly, creating a comforting duo that resonates with homey vibes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, caramelized to perfection, add a touch of sweetness and a lovely texture that contrasts with the creamy, custardy bread pudding.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden and crispy, these sprouts add a delightful crunch, enhancing the depth of flavors in your meal with a slightly bitter edge.
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Tomato Soup: Creamy tomato soup provides a warm, tangy contrast to the savory bread pudding, making for a classic yet heartwarming pairing that evokes nostalgia.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, brightens the palate, illuminating the dish’s cheesy flavors while enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich, creamy chocolate mousse, offering a luxurious contrast to the savory notes of the pudding, and leaving diners utterly satisfied.
Each pairing invites a journey of flavors, ensuring your Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham is the star of the meal while harmonizing beautifully with delightful companions.
Make Ahead Options
These delectable Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance—simply combine your torn bread, blanched broccoli, diced ham, and the egg mixture, and refrigerate it in a tightly sealed container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while preventing the bread from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, just transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until golden and set. Just as delicious as when freshly made, this make-ahead option saves you time on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Parmesan Bread Pudding
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Choose the Right Bread: Use a mix of stale and fresh crusty bread for the perfect balance of texture and flavor in your Parmesan Bread Pudding.
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Let It Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 10 minutes before baking. This helps the bread absorb the egg mixture fully for a creamy texture.
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Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes, especially in the last 10 minutes. A golden-brown top is your sign that it’s ready!
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Add Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap the broccoli for any leftover veggies, or try different cheeses to keep things exciting and personalized.
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Check for Doneness: The center should be set and spring back when gently touched. Ensure your homemade dish is cooked through for the best results.
Parmesan Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish truly your own!
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Vegetable Swap: Replace broccoli with spinach or zucchini to add different flavors and textures.
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Meat Options: Use leftover roast chicken or crumbled sausage instead of ham for a unique twist.
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Cheese Play: Substitute the parmesan with sharp cheddar or creamy Gruyère for a different, tantalizing experience.
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Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting kick of heat that livens up every bite.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance flavors by stirring in fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley for a lovely aroma and taste.
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Grain Booster: Incorporate cooked grains like quinoa or rice for added texture and nutrition, making this dish even heartier.
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Nutty Crunch: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, on top before baking.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or oat milk along with nutritional yeast for a vegan version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Parmesan Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover Parmesan Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while maintaining the pudding’s delicious texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. This preserves the creamy consistency of the dish.
Texture Check: Always ensure the center is hot and the top may become crispy again, giving you that delightful crunch alongside the soft interior of your Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham.
Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Parmesan Bread Pudding?
A mix of stale and fresh crusty bread works wonders, creating that ideal texture we crave. If you’re out of crusty bread, white bread will do just fine, but make sure it’s at least a bit stale to soak up the egg mixture without turning too mushy.
How should I store leftover Parmesan Bread Pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining that delightful texture. Just make sure it’s completely cool before sealing!
Can I freeze Parmesan Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.
What if my bread pudding turns out soggy?
If your bread pudding ends up a bit soggy, it may have needed more stale bread or a bit more baking time. You can also try allowing the mixture to sit for 10 minutes before baking, which helps the bread absorb the moisture better. Lastly, if the pudding feels too wet when baking, continue to bake it for an extra 5-10 minutes and keep an eye on it for that coveted golden-brown top!
Are there dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, while this Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham contains gluten from the bread and dairy from the cheese and milk, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and substituting cheese with a dairy-free option. If allergies to eggs exist, you can experiment with substitutes like a flaxseed egg or unsweetened applesauce!
Cheesy Parmesan Bread Pudding with Broccoli & Ham Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Tear bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Blanch broccoli if using fresh, then combine it with the torn bread.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings in a separate bowl.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and broccoli, ensuring even coating.
- Fold in diced ham and grated parmesan until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and bake for 50-60 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool slightly before serving.
