Savory Italian Breakfast Bread Pudding

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Savory Italian Breakfast Bread Pudding.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While that warms up, grab a 9x13-inch baking dish and give it a loving coat of 2 teaspoons of butter to prevent sticking.

3. Step 3

   Set it aside for now.

4. Step 4

   In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt another 2 teaspoons of butter.

5. Step 5

   Toss in the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers, along with 1 teaspoon of black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt (1/4 teaspoon).

6. Step 6

   Sauté these colorful veggies, stirring occasionally, until they soften up beautifully—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Once they’re tender, stir in some dried parsley, then remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool a bit.

8. Step 8

   Next, in a separate skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, stirring it around until it’s lightly browned, which should take another 5 to 7 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Once it’s done, drain the sausage on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess grease.

10. Step 10

    Now, let’s move to a large bowl where you’ll beat some eggs.

11. Step 11

    Add in whole milk, half-and-half, Italian seasoning, the remaining teaspoon of black pepper, and the last pinch of salt (another 1/4 teaspoon).

12. Step 12

    Whisk everything together until it’s well blended.

13. Step 13

    Then, stir in the cubed bread and let it sit for about 5 minutes so it can soak up all that delicious liquid.

14. Step 14

    Once the bread has absorbed the mixture, it’s time to add in the cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, sautéed vegetables, Cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.

15. Step 15

    Mix everything together until it’s all nicely combined.

16. Step 16

    Spoon this hearty mixture into your prepared baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.

17. Step 17

    Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the pudding is almost set.

18. Step 18

    While that’s baking, let’s prepare a crunchy topping.

19. Step 19

    In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and the last 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning.

20. Step 20

    When the pudding is nearly done, take it out of the oven, remove the foil, and sprinkle your breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.

21. Step 21

    Now, return the dish to the oven, but this time crank up the heat to 375°F (190°C).

22. Step 22

    Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the pudding is fully set in the center, puffed up, and has a lovely golden brown top.

23. Step 23

    Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

24. Step 24

    This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and make it easier to slice.

25. Step 25

    Enjoy your delicious creation, perfect for a cozy gathering or a comforting family meal!.