Homemade croutons are the ultimate way to elevate any salad or soup with their irresistible crunch and rich flavor. In just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking, you can transform stale bread into golden, crispy bites infused with herbs, garlic, or your favorite seasonings. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy bistro.
These little gems add a satisfying texture to dishes, from creamy soups to fresh greens, while letting you control the ingredients for a healthier, tastier option. Warm, toasty, and perfectly seasoned, they’re a simple yet impressive touch that will make every meal feel special. Once you try them, store-bought croutons will never compare!
What You’ll Need for Homemade Croutons?
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (or substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed or halved (use more or less depending on your garlic preference)
- 8 thick slices country bread, about 4 cups cubed (stale bread works best, or use sourdough for extra tang)
- Sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Dried parsley or desired seasonings (try oregano, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for variety)
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Croutons
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the olive oil and smashed garlic over low heat until aromatic, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Remove the garlic from the saucepan and drizzle the garlic-infused oil over the bread cubes. Sprinkle with sea salt, toss to coat evenly, and spread the cubes in a single layer.
- Bake for 10 to 18 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp. (Check frequently to avoid burning, as timing depends on your bread and desired crispness.)
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with dried parsley or your preferred seasonings.
- For grilled croutons: Drizzle whole bread slices with olive oil and grill over medium heat until lightly charred. Rub the cut-side of a halved garlic clove onto the hot bread, then slice into cubes.
Crunchy Toppings and Flavor Boosters
Elevate your croutons with creative seasonings! Try adding grated Parmesan before baking for a cheesy twist, or sprinkle with smoked paprika for a smoky kick. For a zesty flavor, toss the bread cubes with lemon zest and black pepper before baking. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These homemade croutons are a versatile addition to many dishes. Toss them into a classic Caesar salad, sprinkle over creamy tomato soup, or use them to top roasted vegetable bowls. They also make a great crunchy snack on their own!
Keep Them Fresh: Storage Tips
Store your croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If they lose their crispness, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to revive their crunch. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make them soggy.
Quick and Easy Variations
Short on time? Use pre-cubed bread from the store to skip the cutting step. For a different flavor profile, swap olive oil for melted butter or add a pinch of Italian seasoning before baking. Grilled croutons are another fast option for smoky, charred goodness.
Essential Tools for Success
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a sharp serrated knife for cutting the bread evenly and a large baking sheet to ensure the croutons crisp up nicely. A parchment-lined sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup a snap!
How to Make Homemade Croutons?
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed or halved
- 8 thick slices country bread, about 4 cups cubed
- Sea salt
- Dried parsley or desired seasonings
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the olive oil and smashed garlic until aromatic, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat.
- Cut the bread into cubes and place them on the baking sheet. Remove the garlic from the saucepan and drizzle the garlic oil over the bread. Sprinkle with sea salt, toss to coat, and spread the bread in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. The timing will depend on your bread and how crispy you like your croutons. Sprinkle with dried parsley.
- For grilled croutons: Drizzle whole bread slices with olive oil and grill until lightly charred. Use the cut-side of a halved piece of garlic to rub garlic onto the hot bread. Slice the grilled bread into cubes.