Savory Roasted Parsnip Bread Pudding

-Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

-Peel 1 pound of parsnips, then chop into thin slices

-Drizzle parsnips with olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper.

-Arrange on a rimmed baking sheet.

-Roast, shaking occasionally, until caramelized and tender, about 25 minutes.

-Reduce oven heat to 375.

-Cut 2 leeks in half the long way, then wash between the layers.

-Chop into thin half-moon shaped pieces.

-Heat 2 TBS unsalted butter over medium heat in a medium saute pan until melted.

-Add leeks and cook, stirring occasionally until tender, about 5 minutes.

-Remove from heat; add ½ cup white wine and return to heat.

-Let simmer until reduced, about 1 minute.

-Take the leaves off of 5-6 thyme branches until you have 2 TBS.

-Add thyme and remove from heat.

-Stir in roasted parsnips.

-Whisk together the following in a large bowl:

1½ ounces unsalted butter

2 cups heavy cream

5 large eggs

3/4 cup Parmesan

-Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

-Add leek-parsnip mixture.

-Cut 1 loaf of brioche bread into 1 inch cubes.

-Mix into the large bowl with the other ingredients.

-Butter a shallow 2-quart baking dish, and pour parsnip mixture into dish.

-Cover loosely with parchment, then foil and bake until golden brown and puffed, 50 minutes.

-Remove parchment and foil.

-Sprinkle with another ¼ cup Parmesan and return to oven.

-Bake for 10 minutes more.

-Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.