Homemade Croutons Recipe (Oven, Stovetop, Air Fryer)
The crispy texture of homemade croutons delivers results that store-bought versions simply can't match. Enhance your meals with these versatile, golden seasoned bread cubes, adding crunchy bites of flavor to soups, casseroles, and even as a savory snack.
Servings: 4 to 6 cups
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (about 12 ounces) or thick slices - any bread type will work cut into ¾ to 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter or a combination
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt optional (or to taste)
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon black pepper optional (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons seasonings (Italian seasoning) or homemade seasonings (optional)
Instructions
Prep Croutons
- Dice your bread: Choose whatever size of cubes you prefer, either cut with a knife or they can be torn into small chunks by hand. It’s just important that the croutons be made in about the same size so that they cook evenly. (¾ to 1 inch in diameter are a nice bite-sized crouton size)
- Toss with seasonings and oil or butter: In a large bowl, add your oil or butter (or combination) and seasonings and mix them together.Then pour in your bread cubes and toss to coat completely. (If making on the stovetop- I do this in the skillet)
How to Oven Bake Homemade Croutons
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Use a large rimmed baking sheet (line with parchment paper if desired); set aside
- Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy, tossing about halfway through cooking time to ensure all sides get browned. Keep an eye out so they do not burn, as cook times vary. The size of bread cubes, how dry the loaf is, and oven temperatures are some things that contribute to varied cooking times.
- Remove from oven, and let cool completely.
How to Make Homemade Croutons in the Air-Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 400℉.Tip: If you want a softer crouton, don't preheat the air fryer.
- In a single layer, add bread cubes to the air fryer basket and air fry for 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the air fryer basket (or open and pull out the tray if using an oven-style air fryer) and give it a little shake. Cook for 2-4 minutes, depending on how golden brown you would like them to be.
- Note: If you have to make it batches please note that the air fryer may be heated up and can take less time for the additional batches.
How to Make Homemade Croutons on the Stovetop
- For the stovetop method. I like to add the oil/butter directly into the skillet. Set a large skillet over medium heat; add the oil and butter or combination. Add in any seasonings or spices and mix to combine.
- When the butter is melted and foaming (or oil is hot), add bread cubes. Stir to coat. Continue stirring until cubes begin to toast and turn golden brown. About 5–10 minutes. Once golden brown, turn off the heat. Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese (if using) and toss to coat croutons.
- Remove from skillet and place on a baking sheet or plate to crisp up.
Cooling and Storage
- Remove from heat and allow the croutons to cool slightly before serving, this will allow them to crisp up even more.
- Storage: Be sure croutons are cooled completely, then place in an air-tight container for 1 week or up to 2 weeks.
Notes
My favorite blend of seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (garnish- optional for color)
Nutrition
Serving: 0.5cup | Calories: 133kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 298mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 0.2IU | Vitamin C: 0.003mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg
To see the web version with photos, tips
and FAQs, visit the recipe URL or scan the QR code:
https://www.soulfullymade.com/homemade-croutons-recipe-oven-stovetop-air-fryer/