Why You’ll Love It
Easy homemade croutons (garlic & parmesan) elevate any dish with a crunchy, savory twist. They’re perfect for salads, soups, or as a snack on their own. Making them at home lets you control the ingredients, customize flavors, and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options.
The recipe is quick, requiring just a few pantry staples and leftover bread. Crisped to perfection with garlic and parmesan, these croutons add amazing texture and flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, there’s nothing like the aroma filling your kitchen as they bake!
Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (use any crusty loaf like sourdough or French bread)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (substitute with avocado or melted coconut oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder if preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a vegan option, use nutritional yeast)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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 herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss until all cubes are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning and crispness.
- Once golden and crunchy, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely before serving or storing.
These homemade croutons are ready to add a zesty crunch to your favorite recipes!
For more snack ideas, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Healthy Snack Recipes.
External resources like Food Network offer other creative ways to enjoy croutons in meals.
Expert Tips
Use stale bread for the best texture; fresh bread can get soggy rather than crispy. Cut cubes uniformly to ensure they crisp evenly. Watch closely towards the end of baking to prevent burning. For extra flavor, sprinkle with smoked paprika or cayenne before baking.
To make these croutons ahead, bake and cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Storage
Keep homemade croutons fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. To extend shelf life, freeze baked croutons in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Re-crisp in the oven before serving.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese and check that oil is plant-based.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread instead of traditional bread cubes.
- Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Herb Variations: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different twist.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh bread to make easy homemade croutons (garlic & parmesan)?
- Stale or day-old bread works best for crispy croutons. Fresh bread tends to be too soft and may result in less crunch.
- How do I store homemade croutons?
- Store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I bake croutons without cheese?
- Yes, cheese adds flavor but is optional. Simply omit or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Are homemade croutons healthy?
- They are a better option than many store-bought versions, as you control the ingredients and avoid preservatives.
Call to Action
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Explore more recipes in Snacks and Finger Food categories for easy bites anytime.
