Why You’ll Love It
Easy homemade croutons (garlic & parmesan) are the perfect way to add crunch and flavor to your salads, soups, and snacks. They’re quick to make with simple pantry staples and transform stale bread into a delicious treat. Plus, baking them yourself means you can customize flavors to your taste and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options.
Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a handy kitchen trick to have up your sleeve. Whether you’re topping off a Caesar salad or enjoying them as a finger food, these homemade croutons deliver fresh garlic and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes (about 6 slices) – any sturdy bread like sourdough or baguette works well
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder if preferred)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional – oregano, basil, thyme)
Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free snack. Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic for convenience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature crisps croutons perfectly without burning.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried herbs if using. Toss thoroughly so every piece is coated.
- Spread the coated bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10 minutes until they start to turn golden.
- Remove briefly from oven, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cubes, and give them a gentle toss to mix evenly.
- Return to oven and bake for another 5 minutes until croutons are crisp and cheese is slightly melted.
Check for doneness by testing a piece; it should be crunchy and aromatic.
Expert Tips
Use day-old or slightly stale bread because it crisps better and absorbs flavors without becoming soggy. Avoid fresh bread that might turn mushy when baked with oil.
Keep an eye on croutons in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. If you like extra garlicky flavor, brush additional garlic-infused olive oil on after baking.
For an extra crunchy texture, let croutons cool completely before storing.
Storage
Store cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag up to 3 months. Re-toast in the oven before serving.
Variations
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free bread.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the oil mixture.
- Herb-Forward: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking for an earthy twist.
FAQ
- Can I make easy homemade croutons (garlic & parmesan) without fresh garlic?
- Yes! Garlic powder works as a quick substitute. Use about 1 tsp garlic powder in place of 2 cloves minced garlic.
- What bread types work best for homemade croutons?
- Sturdy breads like sourdough, baguette, or country loaves hold up well. Avoid very soft white bread, which may become too crunchy or uneven.
- How do I keep croutons crunchy after baking?
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Avoid sealing when warm to prevent steam, which causes sogginess.
- Can I make croutons without cheese?
- Absolutely. Simply omit the Parmesan, or use a vegan cheese alternative for different flavor profiles.
- Can I add croutons to dishes other than salads?
- Definitely! Croutons add texture to creamy soups, pasta dishes, or even as a crunchy topping on casseroles and baked eggs.
Call to Action
Enjoyed this easy homemade croutons (garlic & parmesan) recipe? Please leave a comment below with your favorite variations or tips. Don’t forget to rate and save this recipe for your next snack or salad day. Share it with friends who love quick, delicious homemade snacks!
For more simple and tasty snacks, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners or visit Food Network for inspiration.
