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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.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
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.