Croutons are the perfect way to turn day-old bread into something golden, crunchy, and full of flavor, and once you make them from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought! These homemade croutons are buttery, garlicky, herby, and have the perfect crunch. Toss them on your favorite soup or salad, or just snack on them straight from the pan. We love them paired with our Tomato Bisque Soup!
Why You’ll Love These Croutons
These croutons bake up golden and crisp with a delicious blend of garlic, rosemary, and melted butter. They’re a smart way to breathe new life into day-old bread and are endlessly customizable. Switch up the herbs, try different cheeses, or use whatever crusty loaf you have on hand, sourdough, ciabatta, or even our simple rustic bread. However you make them, they add flavor and crunch to everything from kale salads to cobb salads.
Tips for Perfect Crouton
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Air circulation is key to even browning.
- Use day-old bread – Drier bread soaks up the butter mixture better and crisps more evenly.
- Keep a close eye toward the end – Croutons can go from golden to burned quickly.
- Toss with Parmesan while hot – It melts slightly and sticks beautifully.
Storage Tips
Let the croutons cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To re-crisp, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. They also freeze well, just cool, freeze in a zip-top bag, and bake straight from frozen for 10 minutes to refresh.
Homemade Croutons
Ingredients
- 4 cups (about 6 slices) day-old crusty bread, cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick / 57 grams) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup (25 grams finely) grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary. Cook for 1 more minute.
- Pour the butter mixture over the cubed bread. Add salt and toss everything together with a large spoon or your hands until all the bread cubes are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated bread cubes onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping the croutons halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven to cool slightly. Garnish with parmesan, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato Bisque
This creamy tomato bisque is rich, comforting, and easy to make—perfect for cozy nights or pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich.
Cobb Salad
Cobb Salad isn’t your average salad; it’s a culinary experience packed with vibrant ingredients and delicious toppings.
Caesar Dressing
Creamy, tangy, and foolproof Caesar dressing made in minutes with an immersion blender, perfect for salads or dipping!