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Homemade Garlic Croutons for Soups & Salads

CookFlare Recipes
Quick, crunchy garlic croutons made from stale bread—ideal for topping soups and salads.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Breakfast
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups stale bread, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  • Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
  • Spread bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  • If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the hot croutons immediately after removing them from the oven.
  • Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling if overnight)
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Serving: Weekend breakfast (about 8 servings)