Tomato-Basil Bread Pudding Delight

This savory bread pudding combines fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil for a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect any time of day. Simple to make and full of vibrant tastes, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.

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TIME55 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

8 ounces ciabatta bread, cut into cubes 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 large shallot, thinly sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 12 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 cup packed, chopped fresh basil 1 ½ cups freshly grated Romano cheese Custard: 1 cup whole milk 6 large eggs, at room temperature 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch glass baking dish. Toss the bread cubes into the dish, spreading them out evenly.

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Step 2

Next, warm some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and garlic, stirring constantly until they release a lovely aroma, about a minute. Then, add the tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they soften just a bit, around 2 minutes. Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the fresh basil. Pour this tomato mixture over the bread, sprinkle the Romano cheese on top, and gently mix everything together.

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Step 3

In a big bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until you have a smooth custard. Pour this over the bread and tomato mixture, then give it a gentle toss to make sure the bread soaks up all those flavors.

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Step 4

Pop the dish into the oven on the center rack and bake until it’s puffed up slightly and golden on top, about 24 to 30 minutes. Let it cool for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven, then cut into wedges and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use slightly stale bread for better absorption without becoming too mushy.
- Fresh basil adds the best flavor, so avoid dried if possible.
- Bake until the top is golden brown and the center is set to ensure perfect texture.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the comforting texture of bread pudding with the fresh flavors of tomato and basil. It’s a perfect blend of savory and aromatic, making it a unique and satisfying meal or side. The combination feels both homey and special at the same time.

Serving ideas

Serve warm with a simple green salad or a light soup to balance the richness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top can add an extra layer of flavor. It also pairs nicely with a glass of chilled white wine.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the top crisp or in the microwave for a quicker option. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.