Cheese Croutons
Crispy, cheesy, and garlicky bites of toasted bread perfect for topping salads and soups. These homemade croutons are incredibly easy to make and far superior to store-bought versions.
For 8 servings
8 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2
Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl
- a.Drizzle evenly with the olive oil.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the bread.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Toss everything together gently with your hands or a large spatula until each bread cube is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they bake evenly and become crispy.
- 6
Bake for 10 minutes
- a.Remove the sheet from the oven and toss the croutons with a spatula to promote even browning.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown, crisp, and fragrant.
- 8
Let the croutons cool completely on the baking sheet
- a.They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Once cooled, serve immediately or store for later use.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest texture, use bread that is a day or two old. Fresh bread contains more moisture and can result in chewier croutons.
- 2Ensure the croutons are in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they are crowded, they will steam instead of bake, preventing them from getting crispy.
- 3Allow the croutons to cool completely before storing. Storing them while warm will create condensation and make them soggy.
- 4For a richer flavor, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of the olive oil with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
- 5These can also be made in an air fryer. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Chili Cheese
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings for a spicy kick.
Herby RanchHerby Ranch
Replace the Italian seasoning with 1 tablespoon of dry ranch seasoning mix for a different flavor profile.
Different CheesesDifferent Cheeses
Experiment with other hard, aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper, saltier flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Control Over Ingredients
Making croutons at home allows you to choose high-quality ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and control the amount of salt, avoiding the preservatives and hydrogenated oils often found in store-bought varieties.
Source of Healthy Fats
This recipe uses olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These fats are known to be beneficial for heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of about 1/2 cup (27g) contains approximately 110-130 calories, depending on the type of bread and oil used.