Description
Savory Leek Bread Pudding is a comforting, custardy dish that transforms day-old bread, caramelized leeks, and a creamy custard into a golden-baked side or main. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for holiday spreads or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French or sourdough works best)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 large leeks, white and light green parts, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Optional: ½ cup sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon for variation
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.
- Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in oven for 10 minutes until slightly crisp. Set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook 8–10 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized. Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add toasted bread cubes, sautéed leeks, Gruyère, and half the Parmesan. Toss gently to coat and let sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is just set.
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roast chicken, turkey, or beef.
- For a vegetarian version, skip bacon and try adding roasted vegetables.
- Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: savory bread pudding, leek casserole, holiday side dish, comfort food, Gruyère bread pudding