Hearty Egg and Bread Bake

Grease a 9x13 inch (3 L) baking dish thoroughly. (2 minutes)

In a large non-stick skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until browned and crispy. This should take about 4 minutes. Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, reserving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the pancetta drippings. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, approximately 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. (10 minutes)

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs vigorously until well beaten. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, ground mustard, and black pepper. Whisk again to combine the spices evenly. Gradually stir in the milk until the mixture is homogenous. (5 minutes)

Arrange half of the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the onion and pepper mixture over the bread, followed by half of the cooked pancetta and half of the shredded Italian cheese blend. Distribute spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese evenly over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread cubes, onion mixture, pancetta, and finish with the remaining shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire bake, ensuring that all the bread cubes are moistened. Gently press down on the bread cubes to help them absorb the egg mixture. (15 minutes)

Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours). This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a creamier and more flavorful bake.

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). (10 minutes)

Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and uncover it. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean. (55 minutes)

Remove the baked casserole from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before cutting it into squares to serve. This allows the bake to set slightly and makes it easier to slice. (10 minutes)