Croutons – the humble sidekick to your favorite salads, soups, and snacks. But why settle for plain old boring croutons when you can elevate them with a world of flavors? From savory to sweet, spicy to smoky, we’ve got 20 delicious crouton recipes to take your snack game to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for a flavorful addition to your favorite salad or a crunchy topping for your soup, these crispy little morsels are sure to please. And with such a variety of flavors and ingredients, there’s something for everyone – from classic combinations like garlic parmesan and herb-infused whole wheat, to more adventurous options like spicy Cajun and smoky paprika.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of croutons and explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. So get ready to get creative in the kitchen and take your snack time to new heights!
Garlic Parmesan Croutons
Elevate your salads or soups with these crispy and flavorful croutons, infused with the richness of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the baguette cubes, minced garlic, and olive oil until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the croutons.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Whole Wheat Croutons
Elevate your salads and soups with these flavorful and crunchy herbed whole wheat croutons. Perfect for adding a touch of freshness to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1 cup croutons
Spicy Cajun Croutons
Elevate your salads and soups with these spicy Cajun croutons that pack a flavorful punch!
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
These spicy Cajun croutons are perfect for adding a bold flavor to your favorite salads, soups, or as a snack on their own. Enjoy!
Rosemary Olive Oil Croutons
Rosemary Olive Oil Croutons Recipe
Elevate your salads or soups with the fragrant flavor of rosemary and the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss baguette cubes with olive oil, chopped rosemary, and salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until croutons are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before using.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Sourdough Croutons
These crunchy, cheesy bites are a perfect addition to any salad or soup. Made with sourdough bread and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the bread cubes and toss until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon Ranch Croutons
Elevate your salads with the rich flavors of crispy bacon and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped up in crunchy crouton form.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, and olive oil.
3. Add bread cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the bacon-ranch mixture.
4. Spread the croutons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Everything Bagel Croutons
Transform store-bought or homemade bagels into crispy, flavorful croutons perfect for topping salads, soups, or using as a snack. This recipe is quick and easy, requiring just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 everything bagels (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut bagels into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil and melted butter.
4. Add bagel cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the oil mixture.
5. Sprinkle salt and any desired seasonings over the bagel cubes and toss again.
6. Spread the crouton mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Croutons
Elevate your salads or soups with these flavorful and crunchy croutons infused with the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for adding a burst of Mediterranean flair to any dish!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup whole wheat bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until croutons are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Cinnamon Croutons
Maple Cinnamon Croutons: A Sweet and Savory Snack
These croutons are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of maple syrup. They’re great as a topping for salads, soups, or simply as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes to the mixture and toss until they’re evenly coated.
4. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Croutons
Elevate your salads and soups with these crispy, flavorful croutons infused with the deep smokiness of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until croutons are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
These smoky paprika croutons add a rich, savory flavor to your favorite dishes. Enjoy!
Lemon Pepper Croutons
Elevate your salads and soups with these crispy, citrusy croutons that combine the warmth of pepper with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add olive oil, stirring with a fork until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., small squares or strips).
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently to coat.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Croutons
Elevate your salads and pasta dishes with these flavorful Pesto Croutons! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re the perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the bread mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle pesto over the bread cubes, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until croutons are crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Za’atar Spiced Croutons
Elevate your dishes with the warm, aromatic flavor of za’atar, a Middle Eastern herb blend. These croutons are perfect for adding crunch and excitement to salads, sandwiches, or as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon za’atar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra boost of flavor, toss the croutons with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
– Use these croutons as a topping for your favorite salad or sandwich, or enjoy them on their own as a snack.
Garlic Butter Croutons
Elevate your salads or soups with these crispy, flavorful croutons infused with the richness of garlic and butter. Perfect for a quick snack or topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 1 cup), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the bread cubes, garlic, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Toss the bread mixture with the garlic butter until evenly coated.
4. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chili Lime Croutons
Elevate your salads or soups with a burst of flavor from these addictive Chili Lime Croutons!
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add baguette cubes to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Onion and Poppy Seed Croutons
Elevate your salads with the perfect combination of sweet onion and nutty poppy seed. These croutons are easy to make and add a delightful texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup (60g) poppy seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the onion slices with olive oil, salt, and poppy seeds until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the onions are caramelized and crispy, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Break the croutons into desired size and use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Croutons
Elevate your salad game with these sweet and savory croutons, perfect for adding texture and flavor to any green.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the croutons in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Cheddar Croutons
Elevate your salads and snacks with these addictive Jalapeño Cheddar Croutons, perfect for adding a burst of flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together melted butter, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeño, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the cubed bread to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
4. Spread the crouton mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Allow cooling completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thyme and Black Pepper Croutons
Elevate your favorite dishes with these flavorful croutons, infused with the warmth of thyme and the subtle kick of black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, thyme, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until croutons are golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of croutons
Use these croutons to add texture and flavor to salads, soups, or as a topping for your favorite dishes. Store leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Sweet Potato Croutons
Add a delightful twist to your salads or soups with these crispy sweet potato croutons. Perfect for the fall season, they’re an easy and delicious way to use up ripe sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Spread the croutons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salads, soups, and snacks with these 20 crispy crouton recipes! From savory to sweet, and from classic to adventurous, this collection has something for every occasion. Try garlic parmesan croutons for a flavorful addition to your favorite greens, or herbed whole wheat croutons for a nutritious twist on the classic. With options like spicy cajun, rosemary olive oil, and cheesy sourdough, you’ll never get bored with these crunchy bites. Whether you’re a fan of herbs, spices, cheese, or just want to add some excitement to your meals, these crispy croutons are sure to delight!