Ham and Cheese Puffs

submitted by Lisa Esplin

1 loaf day-old Italian bread, cut into 1" cubes
3 cups cubed cooked ham
3/4 lb grated cheese (jack, munster or chedder)
1 medium onion, chopped (can also use other vegetables)
1/8 cup butter (enough to saute onion and/or other vegetables)
8 eggs
3 1/2 cups milk
1-2 Tbsp prepared mustard (a little goes a long way)
dash of salt and pepper

Cube day-old bread and set aside in a 9x13 casserole pan (set out for longer if you desire a more crispy crust). In a skillet, saute onion and/or other vegetables in butter until tender. Transfer to a bowl. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, cheese, salt and pepper. Add ham and sauteed vegetables to the bread. Pour milk-egg mixture over bread and refrigerate overnight. Remove 30 minutes before baking. Bake at 350 for 50-60 minutes. Serve immediately.