Best Garlic Parmesan Croutons
Transform ordinary bread into extraordinary croutons with this foolproof recipe! These garlic Parmesan croutons are incredibly crispy on the outside, perfectly seasoned, and addictively delicious. They re the secret weapon that elevates any Caesar salad, tomato soup, or even makes a great snack on their own. Using day-old bread works best, but fresh bread can work too with a little extra time in the oven.
Frequently asked questions
＋ − Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Yes, but you may need to bake them a few minutes longer to achieve the same crispiness. Fresh bread contains more moisture, so it takes longer to become crispy.
＋ − What's the best type of bread to use for croutons?
Sturdy breads like sourdough, French bread, or Italian bread work best. Avoid soft sandwich breads as they may become too soggy or fall apart.
＋ − How do I know when the croutons are done?
They should be golden brown all over and sound hollow when tapped. They ll continue to crisp up as they cool, so don t over-bake them.
＋ − Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These croutons stay fresh and crispy for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
＋ − Can I freeze homemade croutons?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and re-crisp in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Best Garlic Parmesan Croutons
Nutrition shown per serving · updates with portion size
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the bread into uniform 3/4-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs if using. Let this mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 3
Drizzle the garlic oil mixture over the bread cubes. Toss thoroughly with your hands or a large spoon until every piece is evenly coated.
- 4
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the bread cubes and toss again. Arrange the seasoned bread in a single layer on a large baking sheet, making sure pieces don't overlap.
- 5
Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. They should sound hollow when tapped.
- 6
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. The croutons will continue to crisp up as they cool. Serve immediately or store for later use.
American comfort food
Mia CarterMia grew up in a Midwest kitchen and specializes in cozy, crowd-pleasing weeknight dinners. She tests every recipe until it works on the first try.
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