Leftover rolls, bread, buns, etc. about to go stale? HOLD! Use this recipe to crisp those babies up and repurpose last day pantry bread.
What seasonings do I use?
Crunchy, herby, salty, croutons can be made with any seasoning you like. I use a combination of everything bagel seasoning and a blend of garlic and herb. Cumin and smoked paprika are always a hit for a taco salad, cozy chili, or Mexican inspired soup. Heck, anything you can add crouton to, this recipe is for you!
This is a simple way to save the last few days of your bread or left over dinner roll like I used. They store nicely for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can roast these anywhere from 12-15 minutes depending on how crunchy you like them. After pulling them out of the oven, allow them to cool 3-5 minutes before servings. The cooler air will help dry them out even more, so be sure and not to over bake because they will continue to crisp up after letting them rest.
My favorite seasonings to use on croutons varies. For salads, I like to use a ranch seasoning often along with extra garlic powder or garlic salt. This serves great for chilled chicken salads in the summers and satisfies the crunchy texture we all crave. Croutons can be made with anything flavor you like, try out all the blends!
What bread can I use?
For the bread, I used about 15 dinner rolls. You can use whatever bread you have on hand. French bread, baguettes, ciabatta, brioche, gluten free bread, and more! Your oil is as needed depending on how many pieces of bread there are. You want them each coated evenly. Your recipe will vary from mine, but this is hardly a recipe to begin with. Just make sure you add enough oil to coat. Finely grated parmesan works great on these as well. It created a cheese shell on the outside of each piece, sinful!
Can I freeze croutons?
Yes! Place your croutons in a zip lock bag and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw completely and crisp them up in the oven. You can even re-toss them in some oil and seasonings and then bake in the oven for about 5-ish minutes or until you are satisfied with their crunch! Mine never last but a month, especially in the winter when I slurp on soup, spoon chili, and the summers to top my salads. This is a year around food! Plus, it is budget friendly!
My biggest tip.
My biggest tip, use a big enough bowl to toss and coat your bread, I have made this mistake many times! HA!
Watch the tutorial below how I make my croutons and how easy it is!
Homemade Garlic and Herb Croutons
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil + more as needed
- 6-7 cup bread, cubed
- Dried Seasonings of choice
Directions
- Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add your bread, oil, and seasonings. Toss to combine.
- Spread in one even layer on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake 12-15 minutes. Allow to cool for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Store left overs in air tight container or zip lock bag for up to 3 days, 3 months in freezer.
