Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding Easy Creamy Recipe

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Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding : Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding Easy Creamy Recipe

 

Introduction

Do you ever find yourself staring into the fridge, a lingering scent of Saturday morning still hanging in the air, and wonder how to infuse comfort food with a little unexpected magic? Today, I want to talk about just that  a dish that takes the humble notion of “breakfast for dinner” and elevates it into something truly special: Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding. It’s funny how certain aromas can transport you, isn’t it? For me, the warm, slightly sweet scent of roasting peppers always brings back memories of late summer evenings in my grandmother’s garden, fireflies dancing as she meticulously harvested the day’s bounty. She always said the best meals came from a place of patience and a willingness to simply be with your ingredients. This recipe, dear friends, embodies that spirit entirely.

We’re not just talking about any old casserole here. Oh no. We’re delving into a world where savory meets creamy, where tangy goat cheese dances with the sweet smokiness of red peppers, all nestled in a bed of custardy bread. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and entirely new, a perfect example of how a few thoughtful ingredients can transform the everyday into something extraordinary. This Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down, to savor, and to find a little bit of joy in the simple act of breaking bread together. If you’ve ever loved the idea of a hearty, comforting, yet undeniably elegant meal, then you’re in for a real treat. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to gather around the table, share stories, and maybe, just maybe, go back for a second helping. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for everything from a leisurely weekend Brunch Recipes to a cozy weeknight dinner, and it’s surprisingly straightforward to assemble.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding

Let’s be honest, we all have those recipes that become instant favorites, the ones we turn to again and again because they just feel right. This Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding is one of those for me, and I’m convinced it will be for you too. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, a warm embrace delivered straight from your oven. The layers of flavor are truly remarkable – the sweetness of roasted red peppers, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the comforting chew of the soaked bread all come together in a symphony of taste and texture. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and just savor each bite.

Here’s why I think you’ll fall head over heels for this particular Savory Bread Pudding:

  • Effortless Elegance: This recipe manages to feel incredibly fancy without requiring hours of labor. It’s the perfect secret weapon for when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special without the stress. It’s an Easy Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe that delivers gourmet results.
  • A Taste of Comfort: There’s something inherently comforting about a good Bread Pudding Recipe. This savory version takes that cozy feeling and elevates it with sophisticated flavors that still feel wonderfully homey. Think of it as your favorite blanket, but for your taste buds.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: One of my favorite things about this dish is how flexible it is. You can assemble it the night before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it off in the morning. It’s truly one of the best Make-Ahead Breakfast Dishes out there, especially when you’re hosting or just want a stress-free morning.
  • Vegetarian Dream: For those seeking delicious meat-free options, this is a fantastic choice. It’s a hearty and satisfying Vegetarian Bread Pudding with Roasted Red Peppers and Goat Cheese that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. It’s proof that vegetarian dishes can be incredibly robust and fulfilling.
  • Versatile for Any Meal: While it makes an incredible brunch centerpiece, don’t limit yourself! This also shines as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a delightful dinner with a simple green salad. It’s a truly versatile creation that adapts to your needs.
  • Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: We’re using relatively simple, accessible ingredients, but the way they come together creates an incredibly rich and complex flavor profile. No obscure ingredients, just pure, wholesome deliciousness.

This isn’t just about feeding your body; it’s about feeding your soul. It’s about creating moments, sharing food, and enjoying the simple pleasures of a beautifully prepared meal. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or just because it’s Tuesday, I promise you, this Baked Bread Pudding with Goat Cheese and Roasted Peppers will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your home. It’s similar in concept to a Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Frittata, but with that incredible custardy texture only bread pudding can offer.

Ingredients for Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun, isn’t it? It’s like setting the stage for a little culinary play. For this spectacular Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding, we’re looking for fresh, vibrant components that will sing together in harmony.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Day-Old Bread: 8-10 cups, cubed (about 1-pound loaf). A crusty loaf like sourdough, challah, or a good quality French bread works wonders. Stale bread is key here!
  • Roasted Red Peppers: 1 (12-ounce) jar, drained and roughly chopped, or 2-3 large fresh red bell peppers, roasted and peeled. You can find pre-roasted ones in a jar to save time, or roast your own for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
  • Goat Cheese: 6-8 ounces, crumbled. The creamy, tangy notes of goat cheese are essential for this dish.
  • Large Eggs: 8-10. These are the binding agents, creating that luscious custard.
  • Whole Milk: 2 cups. For richness and moisture.
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Adds an extra layer of decadence and silky texture.
  • Vegetable Broth: 1/2 cup (or chicken broth, if preferred). Adds depth to the savory profile.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. A foundational flavor that complements the peppers beautifully.
  • Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried). Its earthy notes are perfect with goat cheese.
  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. For a touch of freshness and color.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste). Essential for seasoning.
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground is always best). For a subtle kick.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). If you like a little heat, these are your friends!
  • Butter or Olive Oil: For greasing the baking dish.

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ok, my loves, let’s get our hands a little floury and our kitchens filled with the most glorious aromas. Making this Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding is a process that’s both intuitive and incredibly rewarding. It’s an Easy Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe that even a novice cook can master, and I promise, each step builds beautifully on the last, leading to a truly memorable meal. Think of it as a gentle dance between textures and flavors, ending in a harmonious embrace.

Here’s how we’ll bring this deliciousness to life, much like how you would start any Savory Bread Pudding:

  1. Prepare Your Peppers (If Roasting Fresh): If you’re using fresh red bell peppers instead of jarred, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the whole peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blackened and blistered. Transfer them to a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let them steam for about 15 minutes. This makes peeling a breeze. Once cool enough to handle, peel, core, and deseed the peppers, then roughly chop them.
  2. Bread Prep is Key: This is where the magic really begins. Spread your cubed day-old bread evenly on a large baking sheet. If your bread isn’t quite stale enough, you can lightly toast it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden and dry. This step is crucial for ensuring your bread pudding absorbs the custard without becoming soggy.
  3. The Aromatic Base: In a large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter or heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant be careful not to let it brown! Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and fresh thyme. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread about half of your bread cubes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the roasted red pepper and thyme mixture over the bread, followed by half of the crumbled goat cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread, peppers, and goat cheese. Don’t press down too much; we want some airiness.
  5. Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the large eggs until well combined. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. This is the heart of your Creamy Goat Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Bread Pudding.
  6. Pour and Soak: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and pepper layers in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down a bit with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure all the bread cubes are submerged and soaking up that delicious custard. This saturation is what gives you that incredibly tender, custardy texture in your Baked Bread Pudding with Goat Cheese and Roasted Peppers.
  7. The Waiting Game (The Hardest Part!): Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight. This resting period allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, ensuring a perfectly moist and flavorful bread pudding. If you’re making this for brunch, doing this the night before makes it one of the best Make-Ahead Breakfast Dishes you can imagine.
  8. Preheat and Bake: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the bread pudding from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while the oven heats up.
  9. The Grand Finale: Bake the Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding for 45-60 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden brown on top, puffed up, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean (no liquid egg). If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.
  10. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up slightly and makes for easier slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

There you have it! A dish that looks impressive and tastes even better, yet comes together with such ease. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday morning, a festive holiday gathering, or even a cozy weeknight meal. I like to think of it as a Gourmet Bread Pudding Recipes in its own right, showcasing how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special.

Pro Tips & Variations

Cooking is an art, and every artist has their tricks, right? This Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding is a masterpiece in the making, but a few pro tips and variations can truly elevate it, making it uniquely yours. Think of these as little whispers from my kitchen to yours, ways to make this already delicious dish even more spectacular or to adapt it to your preferences.

Cindy’s Chef Secrets for Success:

  • The Bread Choice Matters (A Lot!): Don’t skimp on good quality, day-old bread. A rustic loaf like sourdough, challah, or a sturdy French baguette is best. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it tends to get mushy. For a truly authentic texture, dry out your bread cubes overnight or in a low oven if they’re too fresh. This creates tiny sponges ready to soak up all that creamy custard, preventing a soggy bottom and ensuring a Easy Creamy Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with French Bread.
  • Roast Your Own Peppers for Depth: While jarred roasted red peppers are convenient, taking the extra step to roast fresh red bell peppers yourself adds an unparalleled depth of smoky, sweet flavor. It’s a small effort with a huge payoff in your Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding.
  • Don’t Rush the Soak: That chilling time in the fridge (whether 30 minutes or overnight) is non-negotiable. It allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, leading to a consistently moist and tender texture throughout. Patience, my dear, is a chef’s best friend!
  • The Power of Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley brighten the entire dish. Don’t be shy with them! If you don’t have fresh, dried will work in a pinch, but reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more potent.

Creative Twists and Delicious Variations:

  • Make it Meatier: While fantastic as a Vegetarian Bread Pudding with Roasted Red Peppers and Goat Cheese, you could easily add crumbled cooked sausage (Italian sausage or breakfast sausage would be lovely) or crispy bacon bits for a heartier meal.
  • Cheese Please: Swap out some of the goat cheese for other complementary cheeses. Feta would add a saltier tang, while Parmesan or Gruyère would offer a nuttier, more savory dimension. A little dollop of cream cheese can also make it a Easy Creamy Bread Pudding.
  • Spice it Up: For a bit of a kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a touch of smoked paprika to the custard mixture. A diced jalapeño (seeds removed) could also add a fresh heat.
  • Green Goodness: Wilted spinach or sautéed kale would be delightful additions, boosting the nutritional value and color of this Savory Bread Pudding.
  • Mushroom Magic: Sautéed mushrooms (cremini or shiitake) would add an earthy umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the roasted red peppers and goat cheese.
  • Gluten-Free Option: This dish is easily adaptable for those avoiding gluten! Simply use a high-quality Gluten-Free Bread Pudding with Roasted Peppers and Goat Cheese, ensuring it’s day-old and slightly dried out, just like you would traditional bread.
  • Keto-Friendly Option: For a Keto-Friendly Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding, you’d need to adapt the bread component significantly, using a keto-friendly bread substitute (like almond flour bread) and possibly adjusting the custard ratio for lower carbs. This would require more substantial recipe modification.
  • Dairy-Free Option: To make a Dairy-Free Bread Pudding with Roasted Peppers and Vegan Cheese, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with unsweetened dairy-free milk (like almond or cashew milk) and a creamy vegan cheese alternative for the goat cheese. Ensure your broth is also dairy-free.

No matter how you choose to make it, remember that cooking is about joy and connection. These variations are just starting points; feel free to experiment and make this Gourmet Bread Pudding Recipes your own! It’s all part of the fun in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Ah, the moment of truth! Your Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding emerges from the oven, golden and fragrant, filling your kitchen with an aroma that promises pure delight. But what to serve alongside this savory creation? This dish is wonderfully versatile, robust enough to stand alone as a main course for a light meal, yet it also plays beautifully with a variety of companions. Whether you’re thinking lazy Sunday brunch or cozy weeknight dinner, here are some ideas to complete your culinary picture.

Perfect Pairings:

  • A Simple Green Salad: This is almost a non-negotiable! A crisp, lightly dressed green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the bread pudding. Think mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette, perhaps with some toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch. This adds freshness and brightness, making the meal feel balanced.
  • Crisp Bacon or Sausage: If you’re serving this for brunch and want to add a meat element (and haven’t added it directly to the pudding), strips of crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage are a classic pairing. The salty, smoky notes work wonderfully with the creamy, tangy flavors of the bread pudding. You could also serve it alongside a Savory Bread Pudding with Sausage for an extra hearty meal.
  • Fresh Fruit Salad: For a lighter, brighter contrast, a colorful fruit salad featuring seasonal berries, melon, and citrus would be absolutely delightful. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit will cleanse the palate beautifully. This is especially lovely if you’re using the bread pudding as part of a larger Brunch Recipes spread.
  • Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: Simple, elegant, and healthy. Toss asparagus spears or slender green beans with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender-crisp. They add a lovely green color and a fresh, earthy flavor that complements the red peppers.
  • A Light Soup: A delicate broth-based soup, like a clear tomato basil or a simple vegetable soup, could be a lovely starter before the main event, especially if you’re serving this as a more substantial dinner.
  • Warm Crusty Bread with Herb Butter: While we have bread pudding, sometimes more bread is always a good idea! A warm, crusty baguette with a flavorful herb butter (with a touch of garlic and fresh parsley) would be a lovely addition to soak up any lingering flavors.

Whether you’re aiming for a full-on celebratory brunch or a quiet, comforting meal at home, these serving suggestions will ensure your Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding truly shines. It’s truly a magnificent Baked Bread Pudding with Goat Cheese and Roasted Peppers that deserves to be celebrated.

Storage & Reheating

One of the beautiful things about a good Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding is that it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had more time to meld and deepen. So, if you manage to have leftovers (a rare feat in my house, I must admit!), here’s how to properly store and reheat your culinary creation to keep it tasting fresh and delightful.

Storing Your Bread Pudding:

  • Refrigeration: Once your bread pudding has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent Make-Ahead Breakfast Dishes contender, as you can enjoy it throughout the week.
  • Freezing (for longer storage): Yes, you can freeze it! For best results, allow the bread pudding to cool completely. You can freeze it whole or in individual portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Your Bread Pudding:

The goal of reheating is to restore that lovely custardy texture and golden exterior without drying it out.

  • Oven (Recommended for best results): This is my preferred method, especially if reheating a larger portion. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the bread pudding (covered with foil to prevent drying, especially if it’s a larger piece) in an oven-safe dish. Reheat for 15-20 minutes for individual servings, or 25-35 minutes for a larger dish, until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you want to crisp up the top again.
  • Microwave (for a quick single serving): For a speedy reheat, especially for a single portion, the microwave works. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-60 second intervals, checking frequently, until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make it rubbery. While convenient, the texture won’t be quite as good as oven-reheated, but it’s perfect in a pinch for a quick Vegetarian Breakfast Casserole.
  • Toaster Oven: A toaster oven is excellent for individual slices, giving you a nice crisp exterior. Set it to a medium heat (around 300°F/150°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the top is slightly crisp.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can extend the enjoyment of your delicious Creamy Goat Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Bread Pudding for days, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first.

FAQ about Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding

It’s completely natural to have questions when trying a new recipe, especially one as delightfully unique as this Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding. Think of me as your kitchen confidante, ready to demystify any concerns and ensure your culinary adventure is a smooth and delicious one. Here are some of the most common questions I get about this wonderful dish, alongside my heartfelt answers.

Q1: Can I make this a day ahead?

Absolutely, and I highly recommend it! This Easy Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe is a true Make-Ahead Breakfast Dishes champion. You can assemble the entire dish, pour over the custard, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all that wonderful liquid, leading to an even more tender and flavorful result. Just pop it in the oven the next morning!

Q2: What kind of bread is best for savory bread pudding?

The best bread for Savory Bread Pudding is day-old, crusty, and sturdy. Sourdough, challah (though it will add a touch of sweetness), French bread, or a rustic artisan loaf work beautifully. Avoid soft, squishy sandwich bread, as it tends to get overly mushy. The goal is for the bread to absorb the custard really well without disintegrating. If your bread isn’t day-old, you can cube it and lightly toast it in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes to dry it out. This ensures an amazing texture, whether you’re making a sweet or a Traditional Bread Pudding Easy Creamy Budget Friendly Recipe or this savory delight!

Q3: What if I don’t like goat cheese? Are there substitutions?

Of course! While the tangy creaminess of goat cheese is a star in this Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding, you can certainly substitute it. Feta cheese makes an excellent alternative, offering a similar salty tang. Other good options include crumbled ricotta salata, or even a good quality shredded Parmesan or Gruyère for a nuttier flavor. You could also use a good vegan cream cheese if you’re aiming for a Dairy-Free Bread Pudding with Roasted Peppers and Vegan Cheese.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this bread pudding?

Please do! This Baked Bread Pudding with Goat Cheese and Roasted Peppers is incredibly versatile. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even some finely diced zucchini would be wonderful additions. Just be sure to cook down any vegetables with high water content before adding them to prevent a watery result. This adaptability makes it not just a Bread Pudding Recipe, but a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Q5: How do I know when the bread pudding is fully cooked?

Your Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding is fully cooked when it’s puffed up, golden brown on top, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean with no liquid egg. The edges should be nicely set, and the center should jiggle only slightly. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last part of the baking time. It should resemble a beautifully set Spinach and Cheese Bread Pudding, but with that incredible roasted red pepper flavor!

Final Thoughts on Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding

There’s something truly magical that happens in the kitchen when simple, honest ingredients come together to form something greater than the sum of their parts. This Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding is, for me, a prime example of that beautiful alchemy. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create, to share, and to find quiet moments of joy around the table. The sweet smokiness of the roasted red peppers, the creamy tang of the goat cheese, and the comforting, custardy bread all intertwine in a dance that truly speaks to the heart. It’s a dish that reminds me of how much warmth a single meal can bring, turning a simple gathering into a cherished memory.

I hope that as you bring this Creamy Goat Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Bread Pudding to your own kitchen, you feel the same connection to ingredients, to tradition, and to the people you share it with. It’s a dish that’s equally at home as a show-stopping Brunch Recipes centerpiece or a cozy, soul-satisfying dinner. Whether you choose to make it ahead for a stress-free morning or whip it up on a whim for a special treat, I truly believe it will become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. It’s this delightful balance of gourmet flavor and approachable technique that makes it a true Gourmet Bread Pudding Recipes winner.

So, go ahead. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the aromas fill your home. Don’t chase perfection in food; chase connection. Chase the smiles around your table, the satisfied sighs, and the simple, profound pleasure of a meal made with love. And when you do, please, come back and tell me all about it in the comments below! I adore hearing from you. If you loved this recipe, do me a favor and remember to save it to your Pinterest boards so you can find it again easily. And for more recipes that blend memory with deliciousness, consider subscribing to MisterRecipes.com  it’s like a cookbook that talks back, filled with stories and tastes to make your kitchen sing. Here’s to good food, good company, and enduring memories, one bite of Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding at a time.

Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding : Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding Easy Creamy Recipe

Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding

A savory bread pudding infused with the sweet smokiness of roasted red peppers and creamy tang of goat cheese. Perfect for brunch or a comforting dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish,
  • Large skillet,
  • – Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet

Ingredients
  

Day-Old Bread

  • 8 cups bread, cubed about 1-pound loaf

Roasted Red Peppers

  • 1 jar roasted red peppers, drained and roughly chopped 12-ounce jar

Goat Cheese

  • 6 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

Eggs

  • 8 large eggs

Milk and Cream

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth

Flavor Enhancers

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 half teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 quarter teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

For Greasing

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions
 

  • If using fresh red bell peppers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the whole peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blackened and blistered. Transfer them to a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let them steam for about 15 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, peel, core, and deseed the peppers, then roughly chop them.
  • Spread your cubed day-old bread evenly on a large baking sheet. If your bread isn’t quite stale enough, lightly toast it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden and dry.
  • In a large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter or heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown! Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and fresh thyme. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread about half of your bread cubes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the roasted red pepper and thyme mixture over the bread, followed by half of the crumbled goat cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread, peppers, and goat cheese. Don’t press down too much; we want some airiness.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the large eggs until well combined. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
  • Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and pepper layers in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down a bit with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure all the bread cubes are submerged and soaking up that delicious custard.
  • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This resting period allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, ensuring a perfectly moist and flavorful bread pudding.
  • When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the bread pudding from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while the oven heats up.
  • Bake the bread pudding for 45-60 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden brown on top, puffed up, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean (no liquid egg). If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.
  • Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

This dish makes a great make-ahead meal—assemble it the night before and bake in the morning. Perfect for brunch or a weekend breakfast.
Keyword Comfort Food, Vegetarian

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