Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Garnishes > Crunchy Garnishes > Croutons

Homemade Garlic Herb Croutons

Elevate your soups and stews with these flavorful, crunchy homemade croutons. Infused with garlic and herbs, they're a delightful addition that takes minutes to prepare.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10-15 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 6 cups (cubed) Day-old bread (French baguette, sourdough, or Italian loaf)
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil
  • 2 cloves (minced) Garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Dried herbs (Italian mix, thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Day-old bread works best as it's slightly drier and will crisp up better in the oven.

Infuse with Flavor

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the bread cubes to the bowl and toss well to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Bake to Perfection

Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Stir the croutons halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Cool and Store

Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Approximate values: Calories: 350, Carbohydrates: 50g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 12g. These values can vary based on the type of bread and amount of oil used.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

To reduce the fat content, you can use cooking spray instead of olive oil. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread.

← Homemade Fried Onion Strings Infused Lemon or Lime Wedges →

FAQ

  • Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

    Yes, you can use fresh herbs. However, you'll need to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs. Also, be mindful that fresh herbs might make the croutons slightly less crispy.
  • How can I make these croutons without an oven?

    You can make croutons in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned bread cubes to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and crispy. This method usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
  • Can I add cheese to these croutons?

    Yes, you can! Add grated Parmesan cheese to the bread cubes along with the other seasonings before baking for a cheesy flavor.