Savory bread pudding is a comforting, versatile dish that takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish at dinner, this savory twist on the traditional bread pudding is made with eggs, bread, cheese, and a medley of herbs and vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory bread pudding is an easy yet impressive dish that brings together rich flavors and a comforting texture. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover bread and turn it into something magical. The combination of eggs, cheese, and vegetables creates a fluffy, savory casserole-like dish that can be enjoyed at any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a brunch with friends or as a side dish to accompany your main course, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to fit your preferences. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish that only gets better as the flavors meld together.

Savory Bread Pudding Recipe

Ingredients

6 slices of day-old bread (sourdough, baguette, or French bread work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
4 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole milk, almond milk, or any milk of your choice)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the bread: Cut the bread into cubes, about 1-inch in size. If the bread is not already stale, lightly toast the cubes in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to dry them out. Set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened. If using bell pepper and spinach or kale, add them to the skillet and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Assemble the bread pudding: In a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, layer the toasted bread cubes. Pour the sautéed vegetables and garlic over the bread. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese on top of the bread and vegetables. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring it’s fully soaked. Press down gently on the bread with a spatula to ensure even coverage. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Let it sit: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard. You can also let it sit overnight for more flavor.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the bread pudding for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving. Serve warm as a main dish or as a side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Meat Option: Add cooked beef, sausage for a heartier dish. Simply sauté the meat with the vegetables or layer it between the bread and cheese.
Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and vegan cheese. Use sautéed mushrooms or tofu for extra protein.
Herb Variations: Add fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme to customize the flavor profile.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover savory bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any kind of bread that is a bit stale. Sourdough, baguette, and French bread are popular choices, but any hearty bread works well. If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread to make it firm enough to absorb the custard.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this bread pudding is great for making ahead. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. Then, bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze savory bread pudding?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan work great. You can also use a blend of cheeses for more depth of flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread. There are plenty of good gluten-free bread options available that will work just as well.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The center should also feel firm to the touch.

Can I make this bread pudding in individual portions?

Yes, you can make individual portions by dividing the ingredients between smaller ramekins or baking dishes. The cooking time may be shorter, so start checking for doneness after about 25-30 minutes.

Can I use a slow cooker to make this recipe?

Yes, you can make savory bread pudding in a slow cooker. Layer the bread, vegetables, and cheese, then pour the custard over. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the center is set and the top is golden.

Can I make this bread pudding spicy?

Yes, you can add a bit of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even hot sauce into the mix. Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Conclusion

Savory bread pudding is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and herbs. Easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for make-ahead meals, this savory bread pudding recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.