Caramelized Onion Bread Pudding

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

You will need a 3-quart, oven-proof souffle dish for the pudding, and a larger pan that will hold it and water.

Caramelize the onion and set aside to cool.

Butter or spray the baking dish, and put the bread chunks into it. Distribute the onions evenly over the bread, and sprinkle 1/2 cup cheese over the onions. Mix the eggs, half-and-half, milk, pepper flakes, salt, and parsley with a whisk, and pour the mixture over the bread, onion, and cheese. Sprinkle remaining cheese on the top.

Place the baking dish into the larger pan. Pour enough hot water to reach halfway up the sides. Bake for 40 - 45 minutes, or until pudding is puffed, golden brown, and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Variation: To prepare Country Souffle, substitute 1 cup grated extra sharp cheddar cheese for others, and add 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce to half-and-half mixture. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated cheddar over the top of the casserole before baking.

cook's notes

If sweet onion is not available, use large yellow onions and use a little more sugar to caramelize.