Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter
There’s something utterly delightful about homemade croutons, especially when they’re infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. These crunchy little bites can elevate any salad or soup, making them not just a topping but a star on their own. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a batch of croutons that are far superior to store-bought versions. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy crouton with a hint of garlic and a buttery finish—pure bliss!
Not only are these Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter simple to make, but they also allow you to use up leftover bread in a delicious way. Today, we will dive into this easy recipe that will have your taste buds dancing.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This recipe is a keeper for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use these croutons on salads, in soups, or even as a snack on their own. Secondly, the flavor combination of garlic and butter takes these croutons to the next level, making them irresistible. Finally, they are easy to make and require minimal effort, which is always a win in the kitchen.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 16 ounces sourdough bread, left out uncovered overnight
- 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
Prep & Cook Tools
- Baking Sheet – For toasting the croutons in the oven.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine the butter, oil, and seasonings.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
- Knife – To cut the bread into cubes.
Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by cutting your sourdough bread into bite-sized cubes. Aim for about 1-inch pieces so they hold up well during baking. If your bread is a little stale, that’s perfect—stale bread is ideal for croutons!
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil. Melt the butter gently in the microwave or on the stove until just melted. Then, add in the grated garlic, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Bread Cubes
Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the bread, tossing gently to ensure all the pieces are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that flavorful punch in every crouton!
Step 4: Bake the Croutons
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the coated bread cubes in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps them maintain their crunchiness. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
- Butter: If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute with a plant-based butter.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works well.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger garlic punch.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Croutons need space to crisp up properly.
- Don’t skip the cooling step. Warm croutons can lose their crunch quickly.
- Don’t use fresh bread that hasn’t been left out; it may result in soggy croutons.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
These Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter are perfect for meal prep! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months. When ready to use, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes!
Your Top Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough gives a lovely flavor and texture, you can use any sturdy bread like baguette, ciabatta, or even whole grain bread.
How do I make my croutons extra crispy?
Make sure to space them out on the baking sheet and bake them until they’re golden brown. Leaving them to cool on the baking sheet can also help them firm up.
Can I season my croutons differently?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of cheese before baking for a cheesy crouton variation.
What if I don’t have garlic powder?
Fresh garlic works perfectly in this recipe! Just remember to adjust the quantities to your taste, as fresh garlic can be stronger than garlic powder.
Serve with These
In Closing
There’s something so satisfying about creating your own Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter. They’re not just a garnish; they’re a delicious addition that brings texture and flavor to your meals. Whether you’re tossing them into a fresh salad, sprinkling them over a warm bowl of soup, or enjoying them as a snack, these croutons will surely impress. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have a batch of croutons that tastes like they came straight from a gourmet kitchen. So next time you have leftover bread, don’t let it go to waste—transform it into these delightful homemade croutons! Enjoy!
Homemade Croutons with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting your sourdough bread into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil. Melt the butter gently, then add the grated garlic, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the bread and toss gently to coat.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the coated bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze in a bag for up to three months.
