Savory bread puddings and puff casseroles have deep roots in frugal European cooking — a way to stretch bread, eggs, and whatever protein was on hand into something substantial. The Italian bread and Monterey Jack in this version reflect the postwar American expansion of available ingredients, while the spirit of the dish is older and more familiar.
Ingredients
1 lb. Italian bread, cubed
3 c cubed cooked ham
½ lb Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
⅛ c butter
½ c prepared mustard
Eggs and milk
Instructions
Toss bread, ham, and cheese. Put into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Sauté onion in butter in skillet until tender.
Transfer to a bowl and add eggs, milk, and mustard. Mix well.
Pour over bread mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
Bake uncovered at 350° for 55–65 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
