When it comes to comfort food, there are few dishes that can compete with the rich and indulgent goodness of mushroom and gruyere bread pudding. This savory bread pudding is a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 cups of grated Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (I prefer using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and garlic, and sauté until the mushrooms are golden and the liquid has evaporated.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated Gruyere cheese over the bread.
- Spread the sautéed mushrooms and garlic over the bread and cheese. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and parsley on top.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and mushroom mixture. Press down gently on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This dish is a delight to all the senses. Each bite is a perfect marriage of earthy mushrooms, nutty gruyere, and creamy custard-soaked bread. The aroma of the bubbling cheese and herbs in the oven is simply irresistible. I highly recommend serving this bread pudding as a main course for brunch or a cozy dinner, accompanied by a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine.
My Experience:
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The looks on their faces as they took the first bite were priceless. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and brings everyone together around the table. The satisfaction of seeing an empty baking dish at the end of the meal is unmatched.
Why I Love It:
The versatility of this recipe is what makes it truly special. You can customize it with different types of mushrooms, experiment with various herbs and spices, or add in some cooked bacon or ham for an extra savory punch. The possibilities are endless, and each variation is a delightful adventure for the taste buds.
Conclusion:
In the world of comforting savory dishes, mushroom and gruyere bread pudding holds a special place in my heart. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy of savoring this delicious creation with your loved ones.