Make crispy, flavorful Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan) in minutes. Perfect for salads and soups. Try this simple, tasty recipe today.
Why You’ll Love It
Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan) add a fresh, crispy touch to your salads, soups, and snacks. Unlike store-bought options, these croutons deliver maximum flavor with simple ingredients you already have. They’re quick to make, affordable, and can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, you control the ingredients, making them healthier and free from preservatives.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread preferred for best texture)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (substitute avocado or vegetable oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (use garlic powder if preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for vegan version)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even crisping.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until every piece is well coated.
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet to allow for even baking.
- Bake the croutons for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure all sides turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the croutons cool completely on the pan to retain crunch.
For more quick snack ideas, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and try adding these crunchy croutons to your favorite soups like in this Classic Tomato Soup recipe. You can also find inspiration at Food Network for variations and creative dips.
Expert Tips
Use stale or day-old bread as it crisps better and absorbs seasonings nicely. Keep an eye on your croutons during baking to avoid burning. For added flavor, experiment with smoked paprika or chili flakes. To make larger batches, double the ingredients and roast on two pans simultaneously for even cooking. If you prefer a softer center, reduce baking time by a couple of minutes.
Storage
Store cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them longer, freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months. Re-crisp by baking briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) before serving.
Variations
- Vegan: Omit Parmesan and add 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread cubes.
- Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan with a sprinkle of garlic powder or nutritional yeast.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh bread to make Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan)?
- While fresh bread can be used, day-old or slightly stale bread works best to get crispy and not soggy croutons.
- How long do homemade croutons last?
- Stored properly in an airtight container, they last about a week at room temperature.
- Can I freeze Easy Homemade Croutons (Garlic & Parmesan)?
- Yes, freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months and re-toast before serving.
- What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
- Nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative works great, especially for vegan options.
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