Zesty Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding Recipe

Fresh tomatoes often signal the peak of summer, but baking them brings out a sweetness that works all year round. I created this Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding when I had too many garden tomatoes and a loaf of day-old sourdough on the counter.

The combination of sharp cheddar and custardy bread creates a savory dish that feels far more elegant than the effort required. It quickly became a staple dinner for me because it satisfies that craving for something warm and substantial without being heavy.

What Makes This Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding a Keeper

This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a centerpiece that looks beautiful on any table. The contrast between the crispy golden top and the soft, cheesy interior creates an incredible texture in every bite.

You can easily assemble this dish ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for busy weeknights or lazy weekend brunches. It adapts well to whatever herbs you have on hand, so I never worry about making a special trip to the store.

Unlike sweet versions, this savory Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding balances acidity from the fruit with the richness of the egg custard perfectly. Even people who think they dislike bread pudding usually ask me for seconds of this specific version.

If this savory bake hit the spot, you’ll want to try my Easy Creamy Apple Banana Smoothie for a sweet contrast, plus the Easy Peach Butter Swim Biscuits delivers the same comforting vibe. I love serving these dishes when I want a full spread of homemade goodness.

Everything You Need for Perfect Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Sourdough Bread: You need a sturdy, crusty loaf cut into cubes, preferably a day or two old.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics to build a flavor base.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a necessary sweetness and depth when cooked down.
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves provide a punch of savory flavor.
• Eggs: Large eggs act as the binder and create the rich custard.
• Whole Milk: Provides the creamy liquid base for soaking the bread.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I prefer freshly grated sharp cheddar for the best melt and boldest flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These burst during baking, creating pockets of bright acidity.
• Dried Thyme: An earthy herb that pairs beautifully with tomato and cheese.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.

My Method for Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding

Let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or oil.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, adding the diced onion to cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for just one minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.
4. Whisk the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried thyme together in a large mixing bowl until fully combined.
5. Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, then scatter the cooked onion mixture, shredded cheese, and halved tomatoes evenly over the top.
6. Pour the egg mixture slowly over the entire dish, ensuring all the bread gets moistened by the liquid.
7. Let the dish sit on the counter for 20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
8. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer jiggly.

My Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding Secrets

Using the right bread makes all the difference in the final texture of this dish. I always choose a sturdy loaf like sourdough or a rustic country batard rather than soft sandwich bread, which can become too mushy.

Make sure you let the unbaked pudding sit for at least twenty minutes before putting it in the oven. This resting period allows the dry bread cubes to fully absorb the rich custard for a consistent texture throughout the Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding.

If the top starts browning too quickly before the center is set, I simply tent a piece of foil over the dish. This technique ensures the custard cooks gently without burning those crisp edges of cheese and bread.

Best Ways to Enjoy Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding

This dish shines as a vegetarian main course when paired with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad cuts through the richness of the cheese and eggs beautifully.

I also serve small squares of Tomato Cheddar Bread Pudding as a side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak. It holds its heat well, making it excellent for dinner parties where timing can sometimes get tricky.