Savory Bread Pudding Recipe: The Ultimate Guide
Looking for a delicious way to use up stale bread? This savory bread pudding is the perfect answer! Warm, comforting, and packed with rich flavors, it’s the ultimate dish for a cozy meal.
Imagine a golden-brown, crispy top giving way to a soft, flavorful filling with cheese, herbs, and your favorite vegetables or meats. Whether you’re making it for brunch or dinner, this versatile recipe can be customized to fit any occasion.
You’ll love how simple it is to prepare while still feeling like a gourmet treat. With minimal effort and pantry staples, you can whip up this savory delight and impress everyone at the table.
Ready to make your own savory bread pudding? Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Savory bread pudding is more than just a comfort food—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together the hearty goodness of bread and the rich flavors of cheese, herbs, and seasonal vegetables. Here’s why it stands out:
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients to make it vegetarian, or add meat for a heartier option.
- Texture Perfection: Crispy on the top and soft and custardy inside.
- Meal Versatility: Serve it as a main dish, side, or even for breakfast!
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its fancy appearance, this dish comes together easily with just a few steps.
What Is Savory Bread Pudding?
Savory bread pudding is a savory version of the more commonly known dessert bread pudding. Instead of sugar, cinnamon, and raisins, the savory version is made with herbs, cheese, vegetables, and sometimes meat. The bread soaks up a custard made from milk or cream, eggs, and spices, and is then baked until golden and puffed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Below is a detailed breakdown of the essential components for savory bread pudding:
Bread
The star of the dish! A sturdy, rustic loaf like sourdough or French bread is ideal for absorbing the custard without becoming mushy. Day-old bread is even better because it soaks up the liquid more effectively.
- Best Options: Sourdough, French baguette, ciabatta, or any crusty bread.
- Avoid: Soft sandwich bread, as it can turn too soggy.
Eggs and Milk (or Cream)
These two combine to create the custard base that gives the pudding its creamy interior.
- Eggs: Fresh, large eggs will provide richness and help bind the dish.
- Milk or Cream: Whole milk is recommended for a balanced richness, but you can substitute with cream for an even creamier texture.
Cheese
Cheese adds depth of flavor and creaminess. Gruyere is a classic choice because of its nutty, slightly sweet taste. However, you can switch it up based on your preference or what’s available.
- Best Options: Gruyere, sharp cheddar, fontina, or Swiss.
- Alternatives: Goat cheese or feta for a tangy kick, or parmesan for extra umami.
Vegetables and Herbs
These provide texture, flavor, and variety. Mushrooms, leeks, and spinach are excellent choices, but you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
- Classic Veggies: Mushrooms (such as chanterelles), leeks, and spinach.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage to elevate the flavor profile.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
- Garlic: For an added depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the dish perfectly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Savory Bread Pudding
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather and prep all your ingredients. Cube the bread, shred the cheese, and chop the vegetables.
- Bread: Cut into 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly in the oven to dry it out.
- Veggies: Slice leeks thinly, clean and chop mushrooms, and prepare any other vegetables you plan to use.
- Herbs: Finely chop rosemary, sage, and thyme.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by sautéing the leeks, mushrooms, and garlic in butter. This helps to soften the vegetables and bring out their flavors. Add the herbs as the vegetables cook to infuse them with fragrance and depth.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing mushrooms—cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they brown evenly.
3. Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), and seasonings. This custard will be absorbed by the bread, giving the pudding its creamy texture.
- Tip: Use whole milk for a perfect balance of richness. If you want to go all out, swap half the milk for heavy cream.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Add the cubed bread to the custard mixture, making sure every piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the bread can absorb the liquid. Then, gently stir in the sautéed vegetables and shredded cheese.
- Tip: Be gentle when mixing to avoid breaking up the bread cubes too much.
5. Bake
Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden and crispy, and the inside is set but still slightly custardy.
- Tip: Use a deep, wide dish for even cooking. Cover the top with foil halfway through baking if it’s browning too quickly.
Suggested Variations
Savory bread pudding is incredibly flexible. Here are a few variations you can try to suit your taste or dietary needs:
Meat Lovers’ Version
Add 1–2 cups of cooked meat such as bacon, ham, or sausage. Sauté the meat along with the vegetables to incorporate its flavors into the dish.
Vegetarian Delight
Swap the meat for extra veggies like sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions. For added protein, you can also include crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free bread instead of traditional bread. Ensure that your cheese and any other processed ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Cheese Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping Gruyere for different types of cheese. Cheddar adds sharpness, feta introduces a tangy note, and mozzarella makes the pudding extra melty.
Seasonal Add-Ins
Incorporate seasonal vegetables for a fresh and seasonal twist. Think roasted butternut squash in the fall or asparagus and peas in the spring.
Tips for the Perfect Savory Bread Pudding
- Use day-old bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy in the custard. If your bread is fresh, toast it in the oven until dry.
- Let the bread soak: Allow the bread to sit in the custard for at least 10 minutes to ensure that it’s fully absorbed.
- Customize your ingredients: Don’t be afraid to mix and match vegetables, cheeses, and herbs based on what you have on hand.
- Watch your oven: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pudding. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the remaining cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Savory Bread Pudding Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pudding up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and pop it in the oven.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bread pudding in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or heat individual portions in the microwave.
Can I Freeze Savory Bread Pudding?
Yes, savory bread pudding freezes well. To freeze, bake the pudding as directed and allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion: A Comforting Dish for Any Occasion
Savory bread pudding is a showstopper, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual brunch. Its balance of textures, flavors, and easy customization makes it a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again. With the right ingredients and techniques, this dish can be a simple, yet impressive addition to your recipe repertoire.
So why not give it a try? You’re just a few simple steps away from indulging in a dish that’s not only satisfying but also deeply comforting.
Enjoy your cooking journey!
