This bread pudding made with smoked sausage, cheddar, parsley, and sweet pepper is assembled ahead of time, deepening the flavors overnight and ensuring easy baking the next day.
            1 tablespoon butter
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 red sweet pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound crusty white bread, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1 package Smoked Sausage (bias-sliced 1/2-inch thick)
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped
6 eggs
2 cups half-and-half
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Snipped fresh chives (optional)