Cheesy garlic bread custard is a creamy, savory baked dish that combines the rich flavor of garlic bread with the silky texture of custard. This recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients like stale bread, cheese, garlic, eggs, and cream into a decadent and satisfying comfort food. Whether served as a brunch dish, side for soup or salad, or even as a main for a cozy dinner, cheesy garlic bread custard is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
This dish brings together the best of both worlds: the crunchy, buttery, garlicky flavors of classic garlic bread and the soft, luscious bite of a custard bake. It’s a smart way to use up leftover bread and perfect for those who love bold flavors wrapped in creamy goodness. In this post, we’ll cover how to make cheesy garlic bread custard step by step, including the ingredients, baking tips, and variations you can try. Let’s dive into this cozy, cheesy comfort recipe.
What is Cheesy Garlic Bread Custard?
Cheesy garlic bread custard is a baked dish made from cubed bread soaked in a savory custard mixture of eggs, milk, and cream, flavored generously with garlic, cheese, and herbs. It’s similar to a bread pudding but with a salty, savory twist instead of being sweet. The texture is creamy and soft on the inside with a golden, cheesy crust on top.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of rich garlic flavor
- Ultra cheesy and creamy
- Uses up stale or leftover bread
- Great for brunch, a side dish, or a light dinner
- Easy to customize with different cheeses and herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into making cheesy garlic bread custard:
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed bread (preferably a day or two old; sourdough, French, or Italian bread works well)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4–5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 3 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread Custard
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, toast it lightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to dry it out. This helps the bread absorb the custard mixture better.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir in the sautéed garlic and half of the shredded cheese.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Add the cubed bread to the custard mixture and stir gently to coat all the pieces. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavor to absorb.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the dish, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Bread Custard
Use Stale Bread
Stale bread absorbs more of the custard and holds its shape better during baking. If using fresh bread, toast it first.
Don’t Overbake
Overbaking will dry out the custard. Check the center with a knife—it should come out clean, but the custard should still be slightly soft.
Use a Flavorful Cheese Mix
Combining cheeses like sharp cheddar and Gruyère adds depth and melty goodness. Mozzarella adds stretch, but balance it with a sharper cheese.
Make Ahead
You can assemble the custard the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning.
Flavor Variations to Try
Bacon & Onion Custard
Add crispy bacon and sautéed onions to the custard for extra depth and flavor.
Tomato & Basil
Layer in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.
Spinach & Feta
Mix in wilted spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
Spicy Jalapeño
Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the custard for a spicy edge.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy garlic bread custard is flexible and can be served in many ways:
- As a brunch main with eggs or fruit salad
- With a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy meal
- As a side dish for roasted meats or grilled vegetables
- In bite-sized muffin form for appetizers or party snacks
How to Store and Reheat
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, but the crust won’t stay as crispy.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use gluten-free bread?
A: Yes! Just make sure the gluten-free bread is firm enough to hold up when soaked in the custard. Avoid overly soft sandwich breads.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. The base recipe is already vegetarian. Just be sure any cheese used is made without animal rennet if you’re strict about it.
Q3: What’s the best type of bread for this recipe?
A: Sourdough, French baguette, Italian loaf, or even ciabatta are ideal. Avoid overly soft or sweet breads.
Q4: Can I make it in muffin tins?
A: Yes! Just reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes and check for doneness. They’ll make great individual servings for parties or lunchboxes.
Q5: How do I know when it’s done baking?
A: The top should be golden and the center should be set—when a knife is inserted, it comes out clean and the edges are firm.
Related Recipes
- Hot Cross Buns: Easy, Traditional & Spiced Easter Recipe
- Quick Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe
- Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets Recipe
Final Thoughts
Cheesy garlic bread custard is more than just a clever way to use leftover bread—it’s a warm, satisfying dish full of flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re hosting brunch, needing a hearty side dish, or just in the mood for something rich and savory, this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand, and the results are always impressive.
Once you’ve tried it, you might find yourself saving bread just to make this recipe again. So go ahead—gather those simple ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake up a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Custard Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bread like sourdough or French bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- ½ tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cut bread slices into cubes and spread evenly in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, garlic, melted butter, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in mozzarella and half the Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently to soak.
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until custard is set and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor and aroma.
- Substitute cheddar or Gruyère cheese for different tastes.
- Great served with a side salad or soup.
- Prepare ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking for a richer flavor.
