Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious breakfast or brunch recipe? Then look no further! This Pan de Huevo recipe – a delightful savory bread pudding – is perfect for a weekend treat or a weekday morning rush. It's packed with flavor, incredibly versatile, and surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, proving that homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped ham or bacon (optional, for added protein)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 6 slices of bread (day-old bread works best)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread slices into 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, lightly toast the cubes for a crispier texture. Day-old bread will absorb the custard mixture better.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the shredded cheese, chopped onion, bell pepper, and ham (if using) to the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, ensuring each cube is well coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard. This step is crucial for a moist and fluffy Pan de Huevo.
Step 5: Bake the Pan de Huevo
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with butter or oil. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the Pan de Huevo is golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the Pan de Huevo cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious on its own or served with a side of your favorite salsa, avocado, or sour cream.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pan de Huevo:
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños. Sausage crumbles are also a tasty addition.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry Pan de Huevo. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Pan de Huevo recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to make and enjoyable to eat. It's a great option for a quick breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe, and don't hesitate to adapt it to your liking! It’s a perfect example of best recipes that are both flavorful and healthy. Try it today and elevate your everyday meals!