A delightful twist on the classic bread pudding, this savory version combines caramelized onions and a blend of cheeses for a comforting dish.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Melt the butter in a heavy pot over medium heat.
Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Add the onions to the pot, cover, and cook on low heat for 15 minutes.
Covering the pot helps the onions soften without browning too quickly.
Uncover the pot, increase the heat to medium, and cook the onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Stirring occasionally prevents the onions from burning and ensures even caramelization.
Pour in the vermouth and cook until the liquid evaporates.
Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the flavorful bits.
Rub a casserole dish with the garlic clove, then discard the garlic.
This step infuses the dish with a subtle garlic aroma.
Combine the bread slices and caramelized onions, then spread them in the casserole dish.
Mixing the bread and onions ensures even distribution of flavors.
Sprinkle the shredded cheeses over the bread mixture.
Using a blend of cheeses adds depth to the flavor.
Whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper, then pour over the bread mixture.
Whisking thoroughly ensures a smooth custard.
Press the bread into the custard mixture with a spatula.
This step helps the bread absorb the custard for a moist texture.
Bake the dish for 30-40 minutes until puffed and golden.
Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Serve the dish warm and enjoy.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.