This homemade croutons recipe is the perfect companion for soups and salads. It’s simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes.
There’s something irresistible about crunchy croutons on a salad or floating in a warm bowl of soup. This easy croutons recipe uses just a few pantry staples and yields crisp, golden cubes that elevate any dish. It’s fast, versatile, and a great way to use up sandwich bread.
These croutons work beautifully on Caesar salads, tomato bisque, and many other favorites. You can make them from a variety of breads—white sandwich bread produces especially crispy results, but whole grain, French, or sourdough will all produce slightly different textures and flavors. The seasoning can be kept neutral so the croutons pair with many dishes, or you can customize them with your favorite herbs and spices. Below you’ll find tools, ingredients, clear steps, and tips to make the best homemade croutons.
Croutons are easy to make and pair perfectly with soups and salads.
Kitchen Tools
- A large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- A large mixing bowl
- Bread knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- White sandwich bread (1 loaf)
- Olive oil (¼ cup; extra virgin or a neutral oil)
- Dried herbs and spices: sea salt, ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder
How to Make Homemade Croutons
Follow these straightforward steps to make crisp, flavorful croutons. The recipe is quick to prepare and easy to adapt—add Parmesan for a cheesy variation or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cube the bread: Cut the bread into even cubes about ¾ to 1 inch in size. Place the cubes into a large bowl.
- Season: Add olive oil, sea salt, ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to the bowl. Toss gently until all cubes are evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake on the center rack for 15–20 minutes, tossing once or twice for even browning.
- Cool and serve: When the croutons are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool. Use immediately or store for later.
Recipe Pairing Ideas
These neutral-flavored croutons pair with many dishes. Try them on a Caesar salad, a kale Caesar, grilled peach salad, or a comforting bowl of lentil or black bean soup. They’re also a simple crunchy topping for spinach and apple salad or a BBQ chicken salad.
- Caesar salads
- Tomato or red pepper soups
- Lentil or black bean soups
- Spinach, fruit, or grain salads
Tips and Tricks
Even cuts: Cube the bread as evenly as possible so the croutons toast uniformly.
Toss while baking: Stir or shake the pan once or twice during baking to promote even browning.
Flavor variations: Customize croutons by adding grated Parmesan (note: this shortens shelf life), onion powder, red pepper flakes, dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary. If you include cheese, plan to consume them within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Croutons are simply cubed, seasoned, and toasted bread. This recipe uses white sandwich bread for a crisp texture, but you can use whole grain, French, or sourdough for different results.
Store leftover homemade croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you add cheese, consume within 3–5 days for best quality.
I hope you enjoy this quick and easy croutons recipe and find many ways to use it. Leave a comment or rating to share your results!
Happy eating!
Easy Homemade Croutons Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Loaf White Bread
- ¼ Cup Olive Oil
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
- ¾ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cube the bread into ¾–1 inch pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Add the olive oil, pepper, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the bread cubes on a prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15–20 minutes, tossing halfway through for even browning.
- Remove once golden and crispy. Let cool, then serve or store.
Notes
Leftover Storage
Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you add cheese, use within 3–5 days.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 15.4 g •
Protein: 2.6 g •
Fat: 5.3 g
