20 Decadent Savory Bread Pudding Recipes for Every Occasion

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Looking for a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from brunch to dinner? Look no further than savory bread pudding! This comforting dish is made by transforming stale bread into a rich and flavorful main course or side dish. With its crispy top and soft, cheesy center, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 decadent savory bread pudding recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic combinations like cheese and bacon to more adventurous pairings like jalapeño and cheddar, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or simple, comforting ingredients, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.

In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and tips needed to bring them to life. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s start baking!

Cheesy Bacon and Spinach Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your bread game with this savory twist on the classic bread pudding. This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for a comforting meal or as a side to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the chopped spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir until wilted.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cooked bacon mixture, and grated cheese.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and toss until the bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves (if desired) and serve warm.

Mushroom and Thyme Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your bread pudding game with this savory twist, featuring earthy mushrooms and fragrant thyme. Perfect as a side dish or main course, it’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, and thyme; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together bread cubes, cooked mushroom mixture, chicken broth, and cheese (if using).
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Garlic Parmesan and Herb Savory Bread Pudding

Transform stale bread into a savory delight with this aromatic bread pudding recipe, infused with the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture and stir until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Savory Bread Pudding

Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Savory Bread Pudding: A flavorful twist on traditional bread pudding, this recipe combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese with the comfort of warm bread.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Toss until bread is evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your bread pudding game with the rich flavors of caramelized onions, melted Gruyère cheese, and toasted bread. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add bread cubes to the wet ingredients; stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked onions, Gruyère cheese, and butter to the bread mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Ham and Swiss Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your brunch game with this rich and savory bread pudding, loaded with the flavors of ham and Swiss cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, melted butter, ham, Swiss cheese, and chicken broth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Spinach and Artichoke Savory Bread Pudding

Transform leftover bread into a rich and savory treat with this Spinach and Artichoke Savory Bread Pudding. Perfect for a snack or light meal, it’s an ideal use for stale bread and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, onion, garlic, artichoke hearts, and spinach. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
3. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Jalapeño and Cheddar Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your bread pudding game with this Jalapeño and Cheddar Savory Bread Pudding recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a unique appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and chopped jalapeño.
3. Add bread cubes to the egg mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour olive oil over the bread mixture and toss again to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Savory Bread Pudding

Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Savory Bread Pudding: A flavorful twist on traditional bread pudding, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese for a delightful savory treat.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, roasted red peppers, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread pudding is set.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Bacon and Blue Cheese Savory Bread Pudding

A rich and savory twist on traditional bread pudding, this recipe combines crispy bacon, pungent blue cheese, and soft bread to create a satisfying side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, bacon, blue cheese, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture and stir until bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Chorizo and Manchego Savory Bread Pudding

A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional bread pudding, this Spanish-inspired dish combines the richness of chorizo and Manchego cheese with crispy bread and fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, butter, and eggs.
4. Add bread cubes, cooked chorizo, Manchego cheese, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Shallot Savory Bread Pudding

This rich and savory bread pudding is perfect as a side dish or a light meal. The combination of smoked Gouda, caramelized shallots, and crispy bread creates a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread, cooked onions, garlic, and grated smoked Gouda.
5. Pour in heavy cream and mix until bread is evenly coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Kale and Pancetta Savory Bread Pudding

Transform stale bread into a rich and savory treat by infusing it with the deep flavors of kale, pancetta, and cheese. This unique bread pudding is perfect as a side dish or as a base for soups and salads.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add olive oil, kale, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until kale is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together bread cubes, cooked kale mixture, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Sausage and Sage Savory Bread Pudding

Transform stale bread into a savory masterpiece with this Sausage and Sage Savory Bread Pudding recipe. Perfect as a side dish or main course, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes.
5. Top with sausage mixture, then remaining bread cubes.
6. Dot top with melted butter.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Caramelized Leek and Brie Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your bread game with this rich and savory pudding, featuring caramelized leeks and creamy brie cheese.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated brie cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the leeks in butter over medium heat until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the bread cubes to the cream mixture and toss to combine.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer half of the bread mixture, followed by caramelized leeks, brie cheese, and remaining bread mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Pesto and Mozzarella Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your brunch game with this creamy, flavorful bread pudding that combines the richness of pesto and mozzarella. Perfect for a crowd or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, pesto, mozzarella cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and heavy cream. Pour mixture over bread mixture and toss until bread is well saturated.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Broccoli and Cheddar Savory Bread Pudding

A twist on traditional bread pudding, this savory version combines the earthy flavor of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese. Perfect as a side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. Add bread cubes, broccoli florets, and grated cheddar cheese. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Roasted Garlic and Asiago Savory Bread Pudding

Transform stale bread into a rich and savory masterpiece, infused with the deep flavors of roasted garlic and nutty Asiago cheese. Perfect as a side dish or served as a comforting snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
– 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, mashed roasted garlic, Asiago cheese, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread pudding is heated through.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Prosciutto and Fontina Savory Bread Pudding

A rich and savory bread pudding infused with the flavors of prosciutto and fontina, perfect as a side dish or light meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/2 cup grated fontina cheese
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, caramelized onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until well coated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and fontina cheese. Add chopped prosciutto and stir to combine.
5. Pour egg mixture over bread mixture and toss until evenly distributed.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Wild Mushroom and Truffle Oil Savory Bread Pudding

Elevate your bread pudding game with the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and the luxurious aroma of truffle oil. This savory bread pudding is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and thyme.
4. Add the bread cubes to the truffle mixture and toss until coated.
5. Pour the mushroom mixture over the bread mixture and stir until combined.
6. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your bread game with these 20 decadent savory bread pudding recipes! From classic combinations like cheesy bacon and spinach, to bold flavors like jalapeño and cheddar, there’s something for every occasion. Try pairing caramelized onion and Gruyère with roasted garlic and Asiago, or go bold with chorizo and Manchego. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping main course, these savory bread puddings are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the rich flavors of these scrumptious recipes!

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