Ginny'S Delight
A savory bread pudding with ham, cheese, and a crispy cornflake topping, perfect for brunch or casual gatherings, offering comforting flavors and delightful texture contrasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard in a bowl.
- Layer bread slices, cheese slices, and shaved ham into a greased 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Top with crushed cornflakes.
- Drizzle melted oleo over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 300°F for 1 hour until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the egg mixture. If Old English cheese isn't available, sharp cheddar makes a great substitute. You can also use turkey or chicken instead of ham for a lighter option. Additionally, if you're short on time, you can prepare it without refrigerating overnight, but the flavors will meld better if you do. This dish is similar to a breakfast strata.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ginny's Delight as a hearty brunch option, alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a mimosa for a festive touch. You can also consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives on top for added flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Ginny's Delight can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginny'S Delight contains roughly 535 calories, with 11g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1359mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. After assembling the dish, cover it and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to develop. This method also makes it convenient for serving to guests in the morning without the last-minute hassle.
What can I use instead of cornflakes?
If you don't have cornflakes, you can substitute crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture. Alternatively, homemade croutons can add a delightful crunch. Just ensure whatever you use is crispy to maintain the texture.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of Ginny's Delight. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from the vegetables before layering them in to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).