Savory Holiday Bread Pudding with Nutmeg, Caramelized Onion & Gruyère
Golden, herb-infused bread cubes soaked in a custard scented with nutmeg, tossed with caramelized onions, and baked until the edges are crisp and the center is creamy and fragrant.
Servings 6 Serves 6–8 as a side
Calories 330kcal
Ingredients
- Bread & Custard
- 1 loaf crusty bread sourdough, French, or brioche, cubed (about 8 cups)
- 1 tbsp butter for greasing
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¾ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard optional, for depth
- Flavor Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
- 1 cup grated Gruyère or Emmental, Fontina, or aged cheddar
- Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped sage or rosemary
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep Bread
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread on a baking sheet and toast in oven for 8–10 minutes, until dry but not browned. Let cool.
- Grease a 9×13” baking dish with butter.
- Step 2: Caramelize Onion
- In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-low heat.
- Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and sweet.
- Stir in garlic and thyme (and optional herbs), cook 1 minute more. Set aside.
- Step 3: Make Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and mustard (if using).
- Step 4: Assemble
- In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, caramelized onion mixture, and cheese(s).
- Pour custard over and gently toss until well combined. Let sit 10 minutes to absorb.
- Transfer to prepared baking dish. Press lightly to flatten. Top with extra cheese if desired.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, until puffed and golden, with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1/8 dish)
- Calories: ~330
- Fat: 21 g
- Carbs: 25 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
🧂 Variations & Additions
- Add cooked sausage, mushrooms, or chopped kale for a hearty variation
- Use baguette, challah, or multigrain for different textures
- Try with nutmeg + clove + cinnamon for a holiday spice blend (use sparingly!)
🛡️ Consumer Safety Note
⚠️ Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten. Ensure bread is fully dried or lightly toasted to prevent soggy texture. Cool before refrigerating; best reheated in oven at 300°F until warmed through.
