Cheesy Pudding
A creamy, cheesy bread pudding with a savory flavor, perfect for brunch or comfort food, combining sharp cheese and tender bread in a rich baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim the crust off the bread and cut each slice into 4 pieces.
- Butter each bread piece.
- Grease a souffle dish.
- Layer the bread and grated cheese in the dish, starting with cheese at the bottom and alternating layers, ending with bread on top.
- In a separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and cheese.
- Refrigerate the dish overnight or for at least 6 hours.
- Bring the dish to room temperature before baking.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40 minutes until the top is risen and golden.
- Remove from oven; note that the mixture will fall after baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. You can substitute different types of cheese, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor. If you have fresh bread, lightly toast it to achieve a similar effect as stale bread. Adding herbs like thyme or chives can elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesy pudding warm as a comforting main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving alongside Strawberry-Rhubarb Muffins or alongside a light soup for a cozy lunch.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The cheesy pudding can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Pudding contains roughly 623 calories, with 14g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1443mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this cheesy pudding gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the cheese and mustard, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without compromising on flavor or texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it does not include any meat ingredients. Just be sure to check that your cheese is vegetarian, as some cheeses use animal rennet. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I do if my pudding is too dry?
If your cheesy pudding turns out dry, it's likely due to insufficient soaking time or not enough liquid. Try adding more milk to the egg mixture next time, or let it soak longer before baking. To remedy a dry pudding after baking, serve it with a drizzle of cream or a side of marinara sauce for added moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).