Mediterranean Savory Bread Pudding
Mediterranean Savory Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dish that turns day-old bread into something rich and satisfying. Instead of a sweet custard, this version uses eggs, milk, olive oil, vegetables, herbs, and salty cheeses like feta to create a soft, creamy interior with a lightly crisp top. It is a clever way to use stale bread and a wonderful choice for brunch, a light lunch, or a cozy dinner. The Mediterranean flavors, with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and oregano, give it a bright, savory twist that feels both familiar and fresh.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 generous portions
Ingredients
Bread base:
4 cups day-old crusty bread, cubed (such as ciabatta or sourdough)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetable and flavor mix:
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Custard mixture:
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups milk (whole or low-fat)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese layer:
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional garnish:
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish with olive oil.
Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toast in the oven for 10 minutes until lightly crisp.
While the bread toasts, sauté the chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Place the toasted bread cubes in the greased baking dish and spread the cooked vegetable mixture evenly over the top.
Sprinkle the feta and mozzarella cheeses evenly across the bread and vegetables.
Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over everything, pressing the bread down gently so it absorbs the liquid.
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
Tips
Use slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the custard better than fresh bread.
Cut bread into uniform cubes so it cooks evenly.
Do not skip toasting the bread, as it prevents the pudding from becoming mushy.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set before slicing.
Use a deeper baking dish if you like a softer, more custardy texture.
Add a little extra milk if the bread looks too dry before baking.
Season the egg mixture well, as the bread absorbs a lot of flavor.
Place the baking dish on the middle rack for even cooking.
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
Cover loosely with foil partway through baking if the top browns too quickly.
Variations
Add cooked crumbled sausage for a heartier version.
Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.
Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier taste.
Add roasted red peppers for a slightly sweet, smoky flavor.
Replace mozzarella with Gruyère for a richer, nuttier finish.
Stir in chopped olives for a salty Mediterranean punch.
Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
Add thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for extra vegetables.
Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Use whole-grain or rustic multigrain bread for extra texture and fiber.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
How do I know when it is done?
The center should be set and not jiggle when the dish is gently shaken.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, the baked pudding freezes well for up to 2 months.
Is this good for brunch?
Absolutely, it is a popular savory brunch option.
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Yes, just make sure it is sturdy and dry enough.
What can I serve with it?
A fresh green salad pairs perfectly with this dish.
Can I use only milk instead of cream?
Yes, the texture will be slightly lighter but still delicious.
How long will it keep in the fridge?
Store it covered for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, fresh parsley, basil, or dill add wonderful flavor.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild, cheesy flavor is usually a hit with kids.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 17 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Savory Bread Pudding is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something comforting and full of flavor. The crisp top, creamy interior, salty feta, and herb-filled vegetables work together to create a dish that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you serve it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, it is a satisfying recipe that makes excellent use of leftover bread and brings warm Mediterranean charm to your table.