If you have a crusty baguette, sourdough, or even plain white bread that’s gone a bit dry, you are halfway to a culinary masterpiece. Savory bread pudding—often called a strata—is essentially a bread-based casserole soaked in a rich egg custard and packed with herbs, cheese, and vegetables.
Why Stale Bread is Better
Fresh bread tends to turn into mush when soaked. However, stale bread has a sturdy structure that absorbs the custard while maintaining its shape, resulting in a perfect contrast between a soft, custardy center and a crispy, golden-brown top.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can use whatever you have in your fridge!
Bread: 5-6 cups of cubed stale bread (Sourdough, Challah, or French bread work best).
Custard Base: 4 large eggs and 2 cups of whole milk (or a mix of milk and heavy cream).
Cheese: 1.5 cups of shredded cheese (Gruyère, sharp Cheddar, or Parmesan).
Aromatics: 1 small onion (diced) and 2 cloves of garlic (minced).
Add-ins: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked bacon/sausage.
Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Bread
Cut your leftover bread into 1-inch cubes. If your bread is still fresh, toast the cubes in the oven at 150°C for about 10 minutes until they feel dry to the touch.
2. Sauté Your Fillings
In a pan over medium heat, sauté your onions, garlic, and chosen vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms) until softened. If you're using meat, ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the mix.
3. Whisk the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and herbs. This "liquid gold" is what gives the pudding its silky texture.
4. The Big Mix
Grease a baking dish. Toss the bread cubes, sautéed veggies, and 1 cup of cheese together in the dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Pro Tip: Press the bread down gently so every piece is submerged.
5. Let it Rest
Let the dish sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge). This allows the bread to fully hydrate.
6. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 190°C. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for 35–45 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Savory Bread Pudding
Don't Skimp on Fat: Using whole milk or a splash of cream makes the texture much more luxurious.
The Cheese Factor: Use high-quality melting cheeses for those iconic "cheese pulls."
Vegetable Moisture: If using "watery" veggies like zucchini or frozen spinach, squeeze out the excess moisture first to avoid a soggy pudding.
Conclusion
Savory bread pudding is the ultimate "zero-waste" comfort food. It’s budget-friendly, highly customizable, and looks impressive enough for a weekend brunch. So, the next time you see that leftover loaf, don't throw it away—turn it into something savory and spectacular.
Would you like me to create a specific variation of this recipe, such as a vegetarian or high-protein version?
