Best Croutons: Easy Homemade Recipe

Discover how to make the best croutons at home with our easy recipe! Using Italian bread, olive oil, and seasonings, you can create delicious, crunchy croutons that will elevate any salad or soup. Say goodbye to store-bought options and enjoy a flavorful surprise in every bite!

SIMPLE RECIPES

9/17/20242 min read

Why Make Your Own Croutons?

Croutons are the perfect way to add some crunch to your salads, but have you ever thought about making them at home? Not only are homemade croutons tastier than store-bought, but they also allow you to play around with flavors that suit your taste perfectly. Plus, they are super easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delightful, crispy croutons that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this simple recipe for homemade croutons.

Gather Your Ingredients

To start, you will need a loaf of bread—day-old Italian bread works wonderfully for this recipe. Stale bread is ideal as it holds up better in the oven and produces a crunchier texture. Here’s what you need to gather:

  • 1 loaf of day-old Italian bread

  • 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil

  • Salt, to taste

  • Pepper, to taste

  • Garlic powder, to taste

  • Italian seasoning, to taste

These ingredients are very flexible, so feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your preferences!

Croutons Preparation Steps

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. Start by cubing the loaf of bread into bite-sized pieces. The size doesn’t have to be perfect, but aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking.

  3. In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the cubed bread with olive oil. Use just enough to coat the bread lightly but not soak it.

  4. Now, it’s time to season. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to taste. Gently mix everything together until the bread cubes are evenly coated with oil and spices.

  5. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.

  6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you want them to turn golden brown and crunchy but not burnt!

Once they are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. There you have it—crispy homemade croutons ready to enjoy!

How to Enjoy Your Homemade Croutons

These croutons are perfect for sprinkling on your favorite salads, but don’t stop there! You can also use them in soups or as a crunchy topping for casseroles. They add delightful texture and flavor to any dish. Plus, they store well in an airtight container for several days, so you can make a big batch ahead of time.

So next time you’re whipping up a salad, remember how easy it is to elevate your meal with homemade croutons. Your taste buds will thank you!

Cee