There’s a certain magic in transforming humble ingredients into a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent-enter the world of cheese and herb bread pudding. Far beyond the realm of traditional sweet custards, this savory twist elevates day-old bread into a luscious, golden masterpiece, infused with vibrant herbs and melted cheese that sing together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for a hearty brunch centerpiece, a cozy side dish, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe invites you to savor every bite and experience the warm, fragrant embrace of flavors that only cheese and herbs can deliver. Ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of rustic delight? Let’s dive into this irresistible savory bread pudding adventure.

Savor the Flavor: Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding Recipe

Savor the Flavor: Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding Recipe brings a delightful fusion of creamy textures and aromatic herbs that elevate a humble bread pudding into a gourmet masterpiece. This savory dish is perfect for any occasion-whether you’re hosting brunch, looking for a comforting dinner side, or craving a unique appetizer. The marriage of sharp cheeses with fresh herbs creates a symphony of flavors that tantalize the palate and warm the soul. Let’s unlock the secrets to mastering this creamy delight right in your kitchen.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Yield

Serves 6 generous portions-ideal for sharing and celebrating every bite.

Difficulty Level

Medium – Perfect for cooks who enjoy experimenting with flavors and want to impress guests without stressing over complexity.

Ingredients

• 6 cups day-old rustic bread, cubed (preferably sourdough or country loaf)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups mixed shredded cheeses (Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• ½ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, enhances creaminess)
• 2 tbsp white wine (optional, to deglaze pan and add subtle acidity)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onion and cook until golden and translucent, about 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. If using, pour in white wine to deglaze, scraping the pan to lift flavorful bits. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the custard base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine bread and cheese: Add the bread cubes, shredded cheese, sautéed onion-garlic mixture, and chopped herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley) to the custard bowl. Gently fold to coat all pieces evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard deeply, ensuring a creamy texture.
5. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, pressing down lightly to compact but maintain some air pockets for fluffiness.
6. Bake uncovered: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the center set but still creamy to the touch. Avoid overbaking to keep the pudding moist.
7. Cool briefly: Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld and the pudding to firm slightly for cleaner slices.

Tips for Success

• Choose the right bread: Rustic breads with a sturdy crumb hold up well and soak custard beautifully without turning mushy.
• Herb variations: Experiment with fresh basil and chives for a sweeter, lighter profile or add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat.
• Cheese adjustments: Swap Gruyère for fontina for a nuttier depth or add creamy goat cheese for tang.
• Make ahead: Assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance, cover with plastic wrap, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
• Prevent sogginess: Avoid overcrowding bread cubes; ensure each is well-coated but not swimming in custard.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve slices warm, garnished with extra fresh herbs for a vibrant touch. A dollop of crème fraîche or soft sour cream adds luxurious creaminess. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance richness. For beverages, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light, herbal iced tea complements the herbaceous notes beautifully.

Explore more savory bread recipes on our Ultimate Savory Bread Collection page to expand your culinary repertoire and impress at your next gathering.

For a deeper understanding of cheese varieties and their melting properties, visit the American Cheese Society.

Q&A

Q&A: Savor the Flavor – Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding Recipe

Q1: What makes this Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding recipe special compared to traditional sweet versions?
A1: Unlike the classic sweet bread puddings that rely on cinnamon and sugar, this savory rendition embraces the rich, comforting flavors of sharp cheese and fresh herbs. It’s a delightful twist that transforms humble bread into a luscious, aromatic dish perfect for brunch, dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer.

Q2: Can I use any type of cheese in this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! While sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan work beautifully to provide depth and tang, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Feta adds a salty punch, mozzarella offers creamy stretch, and goat cheese introduces a subtle tanginess. Just keep the cheese well-melted and evenly distributed for that perfect bite.

Q3: What herbs are best suited for this bread pudding?
A3: Fresh herbs are the secret stars here. Think rosemary, thyme, parsley, or chives-they complement the cheese beautifully and infuse the dish with an earthy, fragrant aroma. Don’t be shy to mix and match to suit your palate!

Q4: Is it necessary to use stale bread, or can I use fresh bread?
A4: Stale or day-old bread is preferred because it soaks up the custardy mixture without turning mushy, giving the pudding a wonderful texture-crispy on top, soft and custardy inside. If you only have fresh bread, lightly toast it beforehand to achieve a similar effect.

Q5: How do I achieve that perfect golden crust on the pudding?
A5: A generous sprinkle of cheese on top before baking helps form a glorious, bubbly golden crust. Additionally, baking it uncovered in a moderately hot oven (around 350°F/175°C) allows the edges to crisp while the inside stays soft and creamy.

Q6: Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A6: Yes! Prepare the bread pudding mixture and assemble it in your baking dish a few hours or even a day before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy mornings or casual entertaining.

Q7: What sides or accompaniments go well with Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding?
A7: This savory pudding pairs wonderfully with a light green salad tossed in vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of homemade soup. For a brunch spread, serve alongside smoked salmon, fresh fruit, and a crisp white wine for a truly luxurious experience.

Q8: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A8: Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese (some cheeses use animal rennet, so check the label). It’s a hearty, meat-free dish that will satisfy vegetarians without compromising on flavor.

Q9: Can I add extra ingredients like spinach or mushrooms?
A9: Definitely! Sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions to elevate the complexity of the pudding. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the texture perfect.

Q10: How should leftover Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding be stored?
A10: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry. Leftover bread pudding often tastes even better the next day as flavors mingle!

With this Q&A, you’re fully equipped to create and savor a cheese and herb bread pudding that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and soul-warming goodness. Happy baking!

Concluding Remarks

As the final crumbs of your Cheese & Herb Bread Pudding disappear, you’ll realize this dish is more than just comfort food-it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed by thoughtful technique. Whether served as a cozy brunch centerpiece or a savory side at dinner, its rich, melty cheese and fragrant herbs invite you to savor every bite. So next time you find yourself with leftover bread and a craving for something extraordinary, remember this recipe-where humble staples meet culinary magic. Your taste buds will thank you, and your kitchen will smell like happiness.