Oh yes 🧀🍞 — a Cheesy Bread Bake is basically a gooey, savory, comforting casserole that combines bread, lots of melty cheese, sometimes eggs and cream, and a golden top. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty side dish!
Here’s a classic version:
🧀 Cheesy Bread Bake
Ingredients (9×13-inch pan)
Bread & Cheese Base
- 6–8 cups cubed day-old bread (French, sourdough, or white bread)
- 2–3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 cup cooked bacon or ham, diced (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1–2 cups vegetables (optional: spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms)
Custard
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ½–1 cup shredded cheese
- Optional: breadcrumbs, parsley, or Parmesan for extra crispiness
Instructions
1. Prep Oven & Dish
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Assemble Bread & Cheese Base
- In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, cheese, cooked bacon or ham, onions, and optional vegetables.
- Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish.
3. Make Custard
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Combine
- Pour custard over the bread mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the bread absorbs it.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes to soak in.
5. Top & Bake
- Sprinkle extra cheese (and breadcrumbs/Parmesan if using) on top.
- Bake 35–45 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve
- Let cool a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm for breakfast, brunch, or a side dish.
🔥 Tips & Variations
- Cheese combo: Cheddar + Monterey Jack + mozzarella works beautifully.
- Veggie boost: Add roasted red peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and color.
- Make ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
- Extra gooey: Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Crispy edges: Use slightly stale bread so the edges hold up and crisp nicely.
If you want, I can give a “gourmet restaurant-style cheesy bread bake” version where it’s ultra-creamy inside, crispy and golden on top, and layered with caramelized onions and a three-cheese blend — basically irresistible 😏.
Do you want me to do that version?
