Overnight Cheesy Bread Pudding Bake

1. Grease the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using additional softened butter, thoroughly grease the bottom and sides of a 13 by 9-inch baking dish or a similar size shallow casserole dish.

2. Layer Bread and Cheese

Butter one side of each bread slice. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Place half of the cubed bread in the bottom of the greased dish, and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and cheddar cheese.

3. Combine Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until blended. Add the milk, grated onion, salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and hot sauce, continuing to whisk until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

4. Soak Overnight

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and cheese in the dish. Gently press down the bread to ensure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture.

5. Bake the Casserole

Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats. Once preheated, uncover the casserole and bake in the middle rack of the oven until the top is puffed and golden brown, approximately 1 hour.

6. Ready to Enjoy

Serve the cheesy bread pudding bake immediately while it's warm and the top is beautifully browned.