The Best Homemade Crouton Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s something special about making your own croutons—they’re crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-simple to whip up! You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy to customize, saves you money, and turns stale bread into something magical. First, you can mix and match your favorite herbs and spices to create a flavor that’s perfect for you. Second, it’s super budget-friendly since you’re using bread that might’ve gone to waste. And finally, homemade croutons taste way better than store-bought ones, adding that extra crunch to your salads or soups.
Recipe
Crunchy, golden croutons are a simple way to elevate any salad or soup. Made with just a few pantry staples, these homemade croutons are far superior to store-bought versions.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed bread (French, sourdough, or any sturdy loaf)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper over the bread and toss again.
- Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Let cool before serving or storing.
Notes:
- Stale bread works best for croutons.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
– American
Serving:
– Makes about 4 cups
Nutrition
Croutons add a crispy texture to salads and soups. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love tossing homemade croutons into salads for extra crunch or sprinkling them over soups to add texture. They’re also fantastic with a cheese and charcuterie board, giving a crispy contrast to creamy cheeses and salty meats. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to add croutons to everything!
Salads and Soups
When you’re craving something fresh and light, homemade croutons can turn a simple salad or soup into a meal that feels special. I love tossing them into a crisp Caesar salad; the crunch adds the perfect texture. They’re also amazing on a hearty tomato soup, giving it a bit of extra bite that store-bought versions just can’t match. Sometimes, I’ll pair them with a spinach salad, topped with tangy vinaigrette, for a quick lunch. And don’t forget soups like butternut squash or broccoli cheddar—croutons elevate them beautifully. It’s these little touches that make mealtime more satisfying.
Cheese and Charcuterie
Cheese and charcuterie boards are a fun way to bring people together, and I love how versatile they can be. I always include crunchy homemade croutons to add texture and contrast with the creamy cheeses and savory meats. Pair them with sharp cheddar, smooth brie, or tangy goat cheese—they complement everything! Thinly sliced prosciutto or spicy salami also work wonders. Don’t forget fresh grapes, olives, or honey for sweetness, and a handful of nuts for crunch. Croutons tie it all together, making each bite exciting. Trust me, once you try this combo, it’ll become your go-to for gatherings or cozy nights in.
