Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game with a dish that’s as delightful as it is easy to make? Say hello to Savory Tomato Bread Puddings—your new favorite way to enjoy the classic flavors of American cuisine! This recipe is perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something warm and hearty, yet simple enough to whip up in just 45 minutes. With a rich blend of cubed bread, juicy tomatoes, and melty cheese, each bite is a savory explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Ready to impress your family or guests? Dive into this deliciously satisfying dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease 4 individual ramekins or a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Cut day-old bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. If bread is fresh, lightly toast cubes in the oven for 5 minutes to help them absorb liquid better.
- Dice fresh tomatoes into small, uniform pieces, removing any excess seeds to prevent excess moisture.
- Gently fold bread cubes and diced tomatoes into the egg mixture, ensuring all bread is evenly coated and absorbing the liquid.
- Let the bread mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow bread to soak up the liquid completely.
- Divide the soaked bread and tomato mixture evenly among prepared ramekins.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of each bread pudding.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the puddings are set in the center.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow puddings to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use day-old bread, which absorbs the egg mixture better. If you only have fresh bread, toasting it lightly in the oven for a few minutes will do the trick!
- Customize Your Cheese: While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, feel free to experiment with different types like mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta for a unique twist.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider incorporating other herbs or spices, such as oregano or thyme, for an added depth of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also give it a delightful kick!
- Don’t Skip the Soaking: Allowing the bread mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes before baking is crucial. This step ensures that the bread absorbs all the flavors and moisture, resulting in a creamier texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh basil or other herbs right before serving not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Perfect Serving Size: If you don’t have ramekins, you can use a large baking dish instead. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness as the puddings may take a bit longer to set.
- Serve Warm: These savory puddings are best enjoyed warm, so be sure to serve them right after resting for that perfect comforting experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 160mg
