Make Crispy, Garlicky Homemade Croutons in Under 15 Minutes

Why Homemade Croutons are the Best Choice

Making homemade croutons is incredibly easy, and the result is always superior to store-bought varieties. When you make your own croutons, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, healthier, and more flavorful product. Store-bought croutons often contain preservatives and artificial flavors, but homemade croutons are made with simple, natural ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

You can use almost any type of bread to make croutons, from a multigrain baguette to whole wheat or sourdough. Not only is this an excellent way to repurpose leftover bread, but it also allows you to experiment with different flavors and textures. The best part? You can make these croutons in less than 15 minutes!

How to Make Homemade Croutons

Making your own homemade croutons is quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own crispy, garlicky croutons.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 cups of cubed bread (preferably a day or two old for better texture)
• 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cube the Bread: Start by cutting your bread into 1-inch cubes. You’ll need about 4 cups of cubed bread. A multigrain baguette works wonderfully for croutons, but you can use any type of bread that you have on hand. If you’re using fresh bread, allow it to sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly for a better texture.
2. Toss with Olive Oil and Spices: Place your bread cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss until all the cubes are evenly coated. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You can also customize your croutons with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a little parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
3. Bake the Croutons: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded, as this can cause uneven crisping. Bake the croutons for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Stir the croutons halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Cool and Store: Once your croutons are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. After they cool, you can store your homemade croutons in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

How to Serve Homemade Croutons

Homemade croutons can be used in a variety of dishes, adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. Here are some great ways to serve your homemade croutons:

1. Croutons for Salad

Add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor to your salad with homemade croutons. Simply sprinkle them on top of your salad for an extra layer of crunch. They pair well with any type of salad, from simple green salads to more complex, heartier ones with grains or protein.

2. Croutons for Soup

Soup and croutons are a match made in heaven. The crispy croutons add texture to creamy soups, such as tomato or butternut squash, and they also complement broth-based soups like chicken noodle. Add them to the top of your soup just before serving for an irresistible crunch.

3. Croutons for Stuffing

Homemade croutons make the perfect base for stuffing. Whether you’re making a classic stuffing for Thanksgiving or experimenting with different flavor combinations, croutons bring both crunch and flavor to your stuffing mixture.

4. Croutons for Casseroles

Croutons can be sprinkled on top of casseroles to give them a crispy, golden topping. This works especially well with dishes like macaroni and cheese or baked ziti, where the croutons provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy texture of the pasta.

5. Croutons for Pasta Dishes

You can also use homemade croutons as a topping for pasta dishes, such as baked ziti or lasagna. The croutons add a delightful crunch and a savory, garlicky flavor that complements the richness of the pasta.

How to Store Croutons

Homemade croutons can be stored easily in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid any moisture buildup, which could make them soggy.

If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze homemade croutons. Simply place the cooled croutons in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Croutons

• Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use bread that’s a day or two old. Fresh bread tends to be too soft and moist for croutons. If you have fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours before cubing it.
• Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and herbs. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika, fresh parsley, or even a dash of hot sauce can make your croutons unique and flavorful.
• Use Different Breads: Try using different types of bread for a varied texture and flavor. Sourdough, French bread, or whole wheat can all give your croutons a different twist.
• Check for Even Crisping: Stir the croutons halfway through baking to ensure that they crisp up evenly. This prevents some croutons from becoming overly browned while others remain soft.

Crouton Recipe Variations

1. Olive Oil Croutons: For a simple and classic flavor, use olive oil as the base. The olive oil provides a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with garlic and herbs.

2. Garlic Powder Croutons: If you’re a garlic lover, you can add extra garlic powder or even fresh minced garlic to your croutons for an added burst of flavor. Garlic croutons are perfect for salads, soups, and pasta dishes.

3. Multigrain Croutons: For a healthier option, try making croutons with multigrain bread. The seeds and grains will add a nutty flavor and extra crunch to your croutons, making them a great addition to any meal.

Final Thoughts

Homemade croutons are a simple and versatile addition to any meal, from soups and salads to stuffing and casseroles. By making them yourself, you can control the flavor, texture, and ingredients, resulting in a much fresher and tastier option than store-bought alternatives. With just a few basic ingredients and under 15 minutes of your time, you can create crispy, garlicky homemade croutons that will take your meals to the next level.

Whether you’re looking for a quick homemade crouton recipe or trying to make croutons for a specific dish, this guide has you covered. Enjoy these easy, customizable croutons and make them your own!