Name: Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups cubed day-old crusty bread; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Hey y'all! If you're searching for a dish that's both comfortingly familiar and packed with vibrant flavor, this Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach is just what you need. It combines golden, crusty bread, velvety custard, nutritious Spinach, and plenty of melty cheese for a dish that's utterly irresistible. Whether you want the star of a brunch, a cozy weeknight dinner, or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe delivers every time. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Perfect for using up stale bread and fridge staples, making it budget-friendly and sustainable.
Packed with flavor from aromatic herbs, garlic, and rich cheeses for a savory, satisfying bite every time.
Easily customizable for different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
Great for any meal—serve it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner!
Freezes beautifully, so you can prep ahead for busy weeks.

Ingredients for Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

6 cups day-old crusty bread (French or sourdough), cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 ounces (about 5 cups) fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
6 large eggs
2 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes

How to Make Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread cubes onto a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables for Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for about 4 minutes, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Add chopped spinach and sauté 2-3 minutes, allowing it to wilt and any excess moisture to evaporate. Remove skillet from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, thyme, salt, pepper, and (if using) red pepper flakes. Gently stir in toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, Gruyère, and half the Parmesan. Let stand 5 minutes so the bread soaks up the custard.

Step 4: Bake the Spinach Bread Pudding

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over the top. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, and continue baking 15-20 minutes more until puffed, golden, and set in the middle. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes for Making the Best Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture—it absorbs the custard beautifully.
Be sure to squeeze out any extra moisture from cooked spinach for a firmer pudding.
Let the bread pudding rest before serving to help the flavors meld and slices hold together.

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Variations on Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Mushroom & Spinach: Stir in 1 cup sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
Bacon & Spinach: Add 4 ounces cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.
Vegan Savory Pudding: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and a flaxseed egg substitute.

Equipment Needed for Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

9x13-inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Large skillet
Spatula or wooden spoon
Aluminum foil

Storage Instructions for Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire dish well and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes from chilled; 40-50 minutes from frozen).

Pairings and Serving Suggestions for Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Serve warm with a crisp green salad, roasted tomatoes, or your favorite brunch proteins like smoked salmon or poached eggs. It's also perfect alongside a simple bowl of soup for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Allow the custard to soak into the bread for at least 5-10 minutes before baking for even flavor and texture.
Bake until the center slightly jiggles—overbaking will dry it out.
If your bread isn't stale, cube and dry it in the oven at 300°F for 20 minutes before using.

FAQ: Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach

Can I make Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
What types of bread work best?: Crusty breads like French, sourdough, or ciabatta are ideal because they hold their structure well and absorb the custard.
Can I add other vegetables?: Yes! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even roasted butternut squash make delicious additions to this dish.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes