there’s something undeniably comforting about the warm, golden embrace of a freshly baked bread pudding-but when you swap sweetness for a savory symphony of cheese and herbs, the experience transforms into an irresistible culinary delight. Meet the savory bread pudding: a harmonious blend of crusty bread cubes soaked in a rich, custardy mixture, infused with fragrant herbs and melted cheese that oozes with every bite. This dish isn’t just a clever way to elevate day-old bread; it’s a versatile comfort food that can star as a hearty brunch, a satisfying side, or even a main course. In this article, we’ll explore the secrets behind crafting the perfect savory bread pudding that’s bursting with flavour and texture, turning simple ingredients into your next favourite kitchen masterpiece.
Irresistible savory bread pudding with cheese & herbs delight begins with thoughtfully crafted layers of flavor that celebrate the harmony between rich cheeses and fresh, aromatic herbs.This dish elevates humble ingredients into a comforting, golden casserole that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special brunches.The secret lies in selecting the perfect blend of cheese and herbs and pairing them with the ideal bread,ensuring every bite bursts with gooey,herby goodness.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield
- Serves 6 generous portions
Difficulty Level
- Medium – Perfect for home cooks agreeable with basic baking techniques
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old rustic bread, cubed (preferably sourdough or a hearty country loaf)
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×9-inch baking dish to prepare for the bread pudding.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until golden but not burnt. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Combine cheeses and herbs: Stir in the Gruyère, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and freshly chopped parsley, thyme, and chives. add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the custard and mix gently.
- Soak the bread: toss the bread cubes into the cheese-herb custard mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors and custard fully.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the soaked bread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Press down lightly to submerge the bread and ensure an even bake.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The pudding should puff, turn golden brown on top, and the custard should set but still be slightly jiggly in the center.
- Rest and serve: Let the bread pudding rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to lock in the gooey texture and allow easier slicing.
Chef’s Notes: Tips for Success
- Choosing bread: Use dense, crusty breads like sourdough, ciabatta, or country white for the best texture. Avoid very soft breads like brioche or sandwich bread as they may turn too mushy.
- Cheese variations: Substitute Gruyère with fontina or mozzarella for a creamier texture; swap cheddar for smoked gouda for a smoky twist.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the custard mixture and soak the bread in advance, then refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving for a stress-free meal.
- Even cooking: For an extra golden crust, broil the top for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Herb freshness: Use fresh herbs for maximum fragrance and flavor; dried herbs can dry out the dish and alter texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm slices of this irresistible savory bread pudding with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a rustic touch, garnish with fresh herb sprigs like thyme or parsley and a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 420 kcal | 22g | 30g | 25g |
For more inspiration on using fresh herbs in savory dishes, check out our Herb-Infused Recipes Collection.To deepen your cheese knowledge and pairing tips, visit the american Cheese Society.
Q&A
Q&A: irresistible Savory Bread Pudding with Cheese & Herbs Delight
Q1: What exactly is savory bread pudding, and how does it differ from the sweet version?
A1: Savory bread pudding is a deliciously comforting casserole that transforms stale or fresh bread into a hearty dish packed with cheese, herbs, and often vegetables or meats. Unlike its sweet counterpart-typically drenched in custard and flavored with cinnamon or vanilla-this version is all about rich, savory flavors and a melty, cheesy texture that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack.
Q2: Why choose bread pudding as a dish? Isn’t it just a way to use up old bread?
A2: While it’s true that bread pudding is a fantastic way to prevent waste by repurposing leftover bread, it’s so much more than that. It’s an incredibly versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that can be dressed up or down-from simple herbs and cheese to gourmet combinations with mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Plus, its creamy custard-soaked interior with a crisp top creates an unforgettable contrast of textures.
Q3: What types of cheese work best for a cheesy, savory bread pudding?
A3: For that irresistible melty goodness, cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella shine brightly. Combining cheeses adds depth-imagine a nutty gruyère married to the sharp tang of aged cheddar. Mixing in Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can also impart a delightful salty finish and enhance the savory herb notes.
Q4: which herbs elevate the flavors in this bread pudding?
A4: fresh herbs are the heart and soul of a savory bread pudding. Thyme, rosemary, sage, and chives bring bright, earthy aromas that perfectly complement the cheese. Parsley offers freshness, while tarragon adds a subtle anise-like twist. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a hint of garlic can make the flavors truly sing.
Q5: Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
A5: Absolutely! Savory bread pudding is a star when made ahead. Assemble it the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, and on the day you want to serve it, bake it fresh. It’s perfect for busy mornings or entertaining because it frees up time while still delivering a freshly baked treat.
Q6: What sides or accompaniments pair well with this cheese and herbs delight?
A6: This bread pudding is quite versatile with pairings.A crisp, green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a simple tomato salad complement the herbal flavors. for a brunch spread, pair it with smoked salmon to elevate the indulgence.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
A7: Definitely! The basic cheese and herb version is naturally vegetarian, especially when paired with plant-based milk or cream alternatives. Just be sure to opt for vegetarian-kind cheeses (without animal rennet) if that’s a concern. This dish can easily become a crowd-pleasing vegetarian main or side.
Q8: how do I achieve that perfect custardy interior with a golden, crispy top?
A8: The magic lies in the balance. A rich custard of eggs and cream (or milk) soaks into the bread, creating a moist, creamy center. Baking uncovered allows the top to dry out and crisp to golden perfection. Using slightly stale bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart is key to that ideal texture contrast.
Q9: Can I add other ingredients to customize this bread pudding?
A9: Absolutely! Savory bread pudding is like a canvas-feel free to stir in sautéed onions,spinach,bell peppers,mushrooms,or cooked sausage. Just ensure that extra ingredients are well-drained to avoid sogginess and that their flavors harmonize with your cheese and herbs.
Q10: What makes this “Irresistible Savory Bread pudding with Cheese & Herbs Delight” stand out?
A10: It’s the perfect marriage of comfort and sophistication-luxuriously cheesy, fragrantly herbed, with a golden crust that crackles under your fork. This bread pudding elevates humble ingredients into a memorable dish that’s easy to prepare yet notable to serve, embodying warmth, aroma, and soul-satisfying flavor in every bite.
In Summary
As the aroma of melted cheese mingling with fragrant herbs fades gently from your kitchen, the memory of this irresistible savory bread pudding lingers long after the last savory bite. This dish is more than just a comfort food-it’s a celebration of humble ingredients elevated through simple, thoughtful preparation. whether served as a hearty brunch centerpiece or a cozy dinner side, its rich textures and vibrant flavors promise to delight every palate. So next time you find day-old bread tucked away, don’t let it go to waste-transform it into a cheesy, herb-infused masterpiece that turns everyday moments into unforgettable meals.
