Name: Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces sourdough bread ((left out uncovered overnight for optimal dryness)); 4 ounces unsalted butter; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic ((grated)); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly special about the crunch of a homemade crouton. They can elevate a simple salad, add texture to soups, or even stand alone as a delightful snack. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s not just easy but is also bursting with flavor: Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter. With the rich taste of garlic butter drenching crispy, golden-brown sourdough, these croutons are a game changer for your meals. Let’s get started!

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to perfect croutons lies in the balance of moisture and crunch. By using day-old sourdough bread, we ensure that our croutons are both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The garlic butter adds a layer of rich flavor, while the herbs bring a delightful aroma that will have your kitchen smelling divine. Plus, making croutons at home is not only economical but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

What You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of these delicious croutons, gather the following ingredients:

16 ounces sourdough bread (left out uncovered overnight for optimal dryness)
4 ounces unsalted butter
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic (grated)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Cook’s Kit

Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy:

Large mixing bowl – for tossing the bread with the garlic butter mixture.
Baking sheet – to bake the croutons until they are golden and crispy.
Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing and spreading the bread cubes.
Oven – to toast the croutons to perfection.

Make Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter: A Simple Method

Ready to create some magic in your kitchen? Follow these simple steps to make your Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your day-old sourdough bread into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch in size. If your bread is stale, this is perfect! The more dried out the bread, the better the crunch.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil. Stir until the butter is fully melted. Add in the grated garlic, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well and remove from heat once everything is combined.

Step 3: Toss the Bread Cubes

In a large mixing bowl, add the bread cubes. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the top and gently toss until all the cubes are evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake the Croutons

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the croutons from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet. They will become even crunchier as they cool. Enjoy them right away or store them for later!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Looking to mix things up a bit? Here are some flavor alternatives you can try for your croutons:

Herb-Infused Butter – Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in place of dried Italian seasoning.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Cheesy Delight – Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the croutons before baking for a cheesy twist.
Citrus Zest – Add lemon or lime zest to the butter for a refreshing citrus flavor.

Pro Perspective

As a food enthusiast, I can confidently say that homemade croutons are a must-have in your kitchen. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Not only do they add texture, but they also absorb flavors beautifully. For an extra treat, try using them with dishes like Garlic Butter Steak With Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni or as a topping for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your croutons have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of bread for croutons?

Absolutely! While sourdough adds a unique flavor, you can use any sturdy bread like ciabatta, baguette, or even whole grain bread.

How do I make croutons without garlic?

Simply omit the garlic from the recipe and consider adding other spices or herbs that you enjoy, such as paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of ranch seasoning.

Can I make croutons in an air fryer?

Yes! Toss the bread cubes with the garlic butter mixture and air fry them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

What’s the best way to use leftover croutons?

Leftover croutons are perfect for salads, soups, or as a crunchy topping for casseroles. You can also snack on them straight out of the container!

Wrap-Up

There you have it! Your guide to making Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter that will take your culinary creations to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the crunch and flavor that only homemade can provide. Whether you’re using them in a salad, soup, or just snacking, these croutons are sure to impress. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of homemade goodness in every bite!