Savory Bread Pudding with English Sausage, Wilted Leeks, and Dried Pears

1. 1

   To make the sausage, place all the ingredients except the salt in a medium bowl, and knead with your hands until thoroughly blended.

2. 2

   Cook and taste a small sample, then add salt if needed.

3. 3

   Use right away, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

4. 4

   To make the pudding, preheat the oven to 350F.

5. 5

   Lightly butter a 3-quart baking dish.

6. 6

   In a medium saute pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.

7. 7

   Add the leeks and pears and stir to mix.

8. 8

   Add the water, decrease the heat, and cook gently until the leeks wilt but remain bright green, 3 to 5 minutes.

9. 9

   Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

10. 10

    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

11. 11

    Add the bread, leek-pear mixture, salt, and pepper, and then add the sausage, breaking it into small clumps.

12. 12

    Stir to mix and pour into the prepared dish.

13. 13

    Bake until toasted on the top and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 50 to 55 minutes.

14. 14

    Let rest for at least 10 minutes or up to 30 minutes before serving.

15. 15

    Serve warm.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.