Are you craving a mouthwatering dish that combines the irresistible comfort of bread, the rich creaminess of cheese, and the savory depth of caramelized onions? Look no further! This Cheese and Onion Bread Bake is a game-changing recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekend brunches, or when you need a crowd-pleasing side dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Dice the bread into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking. Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish.
- Finely chop the onion, using a sharp knife to create uniform pieces. Sprinkle the chopped onion evenly over the bread cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bread and onion mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly and evenly over the bread, cheese, and onion, making sure all bread cubes are moistened.
- Gently press down on the mixture with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set and cool slightly.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Choose the right bread: Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Crusty artisan bread or a rustic sourdough works wonderfully, as they absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Cheese selection matters: While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, experiment with different varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for more complex flavor profiles.
- Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to add crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or sautéed bell peppers to make the dish more substantial and interesting.
- Ensure even moisture: When pouring the egg mixture, do it slowly and gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid evenly.
- Watch the browning: Cover the dish with foil if the top starts browning too quickly to prevent burning while ensuring the center cooks thoroughly.
- Let it rest: Always allow the bread bake to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps it set and makes serving much easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg
