Best Artichoke Heart Spinach And Mozzarella Bread Pudding Recipes

What is Artichoke Heart Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Pudding Recipe?

Artichoke Heart Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Pudding Recipe is a savory dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. This dish is similar to a classic bread pudding, but instead of using sweet ingredients, it is made with savory ingredients like artichoke hearts, spinach, and mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 sourdough loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Spread the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the artichoke hearts and spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
5. Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the spinach and artichoke mixture.
7. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
8. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, spinach, artichoke, and cheese. Use a spoon to gently press down on the bread cubes to ensure they are all coated with the egg mixture.
9. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of the bread pudding.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
11. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

There are many ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Add diced cooked ham or crumbled cooked bacon for a meatier version.
• Mix in different types of cheese like cheddar or Gouda.
• Use a different type of bread like French bread or brioche.
• Use fresh spinach instead of frozen, and sauté it with the onion and garlic.
• Add mushrooms, peppers, or any other vegetables you like.
• Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Artichoke Heart Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Pudding Recipe is a versatile dish that can be served for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Here are a few ideas:

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a light lunch or dinner.
• Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken or pork.
• Top with a fried egg and serve with sliced avocado and cherry tomatoes for a brunch dish.
• Serve alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.

Overall, Artichoke Heart Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Pudding Recipe is a delicious and easy savory dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. Whether you are looking for a special brunch dish or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please.

Tip #1 - Choose the right bread

The bread is the most crucial ingredient in any bread pudding recipe. For the "Artichoke Heart, Spinach, and Mozzarella Bread Pudding," it is best to select a dense and crusty bread such as sourdough, ciabatta, or French bread. These types of bread tend to absorb the custard mixture without becoming too mushy, making them ideal for bread pudding. It is also important to use day-old bread or slightly stale bread as it will absorb more liquid and hold its shape better during the baking process.

Tip #2 - Properly prepare the artichoke hearts and spinach

Artichoke hearts and spinach are the key ingredients that give this bread pudding its unique flavor. It is essential to rinse the canned artichoke hearts thoroughly, removing any excess liquid. Cut the artichoke hearts into small pieces, and ensure that they are well-drained before adding them to the bread pudding mixture. Similarly, the spinach should be washed to remove any dirt or debris and then blanched before being added to the mixture. Blanching the spinach involves plunging it into boiling water for a few seconds, followed by draining and plunging it into cold water. This process helps to preserve the bright green color and delicate texture of the spinach.

Tip #3 - Use the right types of cheese

Mozzarella cheese is the cheese of choice for this bread pudding, as it has a mild flavor and melts well. It is essential to use fresh mozzarella cheese rather than the pre-shredded variety, as it tends to be more flavorful and melts better. Parmesan cheese can also be added for additional flavor. A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese will add depth and complexity to the dish, further enhancing its flavor profile.

Tip #4 - Incorporate flavor-boosting ingredients

While artichoke hearts, spinach, and mozzarella cheese are the primary ingredients in this bread pudding, other ingredients can be added to enhance its flavor. These include garlic, onions, and herbs such as thyme, oregano, and basil. Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the bread pudding mixture will help to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to the dish. Herbs can be added in moderation to give the dish an earthy, aromatic flavor.

Tip #5 - Properly mix the custard ingredients

The custard mixture is the glue that holds the bread pudding together. It is essential to mix the custard ingredients correctly to ensure that the bread pudding is not too dry or too wet. The custard ingredients consist of eggs, milk, cream, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and nutmeg. It is best to use whole milk and heavy cream for a richer, creamier custard. The eggs should be whisked thoroughly before adding the milk and cream, ensuring that there are no lumps. The seasonings can be added to taste, but it is essential not to overdo it, as this can overwhelm the dish's primary flavors.

Tip #6 - Assemble the bread pudding correctly

Proper assembly is crucial for a successful bread pudding. Begin by cutting the bread into small cubes and arranging them in a baking dish. Add the artichoke hearts, spinach, and mozzarella cheese to the bread cubes, then pour the custard mixture over everything. It is important to press down lightly on the bread cubes to ensure that they are fully submerged in the custard. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40-45 minutes or until the custard is set and the bread pudding is lightly browned on top. Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

The "Artichoke Heart, Spinach, and Mozzarella Bread Pudding" is an excellent twist on a classic dish that is perfect for savory lovers. The recipe can be easily customized to suit individual preferences by varying the types of bread, cheese, and additional ingredients used. By following the tips outlined above, anyone can create a delicious and satisfying bread pudding that is sure to impress their guests.