Transform leftover bread into crispy, flavorful homemade croutons with this simple recipe. Perfect for topping salads, soups, or casseroles, these golden bites add the ideal crunch to any dish. Customize with your favorite seasonings and create the perfect complement to your meals.

Ingredients

1 loaf of bread (about 12 ounces), cut into ¾-inch cubes
¼ cup olive oil
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Prepare the Bread Cubes:
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the bread, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gently toss the bread cubes until all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is space between the cubes for even browning.
Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the cubes halfway through to brown all sides evenly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, as cooking times may vary depending on the bread’s thickness.
Cool and Store:
- Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade croutons are a game-changer! They’re crunchy, flavorful, and customizable to your taste. You can transform leftover bread into golden, crispy bites that elevate soups, salads, or casseroles.

Tips

Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread works best for croutons, as it absorbs the oil and seasoning without becoming too soggy.
Uniform Cubes: Cut the bread evenly to ensure the croutons bake uniformly.
Season Generously: Adjust seasoning levels based on your preferences. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add a rich, cheesy flavor.
Storage: Store croutons in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Variations and Substitutions

Bread Choices: Use sourdough, French bread, ciabatta, or whole-grain bread for different textures and flavors.
Seasoning Swaps: Try adding smoked paprika, rosemary, or chili flakes for a unique twist.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or additional olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-friendly.

FAQs

Can I make croutons without an oven?
Yes! You can pan-fry the seasoned bread cubes in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy.

How long do croutons stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, croutons stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze homemade croutons?
Absolutely! Freeze croutons in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw and re-crisp in the oven before serving.

Serving and Suggestions

Salads: Top Caesar salads, mixed greens, or grain bowls with these croutons for added crunch.
Soups: Sprinkle croutons over tomato soup, chowder, or creamy potato soup for a satisfying texture.
Snacking: These seasoned bites make an addictive snack on their own!
Stuffing: Incorporate into your favorite stuffing recipe for added flavor and crunch.