Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan)
Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan) are a fantastic way to add crunch and flavor to your salads, soups, or snacks. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of golden, crispy croutons in under 30 minutes. They are perfect when you want to elevate a meal with minimal effort. Whether you use stale bread or fresh, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Why You’ll Love It
These croutons provide a satisfying crunch with the rich, savory flavor of garlic and Parmesan. Making them at home allows you to control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and customize seasoning to your liking. They’re freezer-friendly and versatile enough to use in a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Substitutions: Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to make a dairy-free version. Gluten-free bread works well for gluten-free diets. For less oil, substitute with melted butter or a light cooking spray.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until the bread cubes are evenly coated.
- Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring or tossing halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Remove from the oven once golden and crispy. Let them cool completely before using or storing.
For more quick snack ideas, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners or Healthy Snack Recipes. For tips on bread selection, visit Food Network.
Expert Tips
- Use day-old bread for the best texture; fresh bread may be too soft.
- Cut bread into evenly sized cubes for uniform baking.
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Watch baking time closely to avoid burning — croutons can go from perfect to too dark quickly.
- Store in an airtight container once completely cooled to maintain crunch.
Storage
Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Simply re-crisp in the oven if they soften.
Variations
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free bread cubes.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese entirely.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh chopped parsley or basil after baking.
FAQ
- Can I make Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan) ahead of time?
- Yes, they can be made a few days in advance and stored airtight, or frozen for longer storage.
- What bread is best for croutons?
- Day-old rustic or country bread with a firm crumb works well to achieve a crispy texture.
- Can I use store-bought croutons instead?
- Store-bought croutons work fine, but homemade ones taste fresher and can be customized to your preference.
- How do I keep croutons crispy?
- Store them in an airtight container once completely cooled and re-crisp in the oven if they soften.
- Can I freeze these croutons?
- Yes, freeze in a sealed container or bag for up to 3 months.
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