20 Crispy Crouton Recipes for Every Occasion

Got a salad that needs a little crunch or a soup begging for some texture? Look no further! Our roundup of 20 Crispy Crouton Recipes for Every Occasion is here to transform your meals from mundane to magnificent. Whether you’re after garlicky goodness, cheesy delights, or sweet and spicy kicks, we’ve got the perfect crouton to match your dish. Dive in and discover your next favorite topping!

Garlic Parmesan Croutons

Kickstart your salad game with these homemade Garlic Parmesan Croutons. You’ll never go back to store-bought after tasting these crispy, flavorful bites.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk until fully emulsified.
3. Add the bread cubes to the bowl and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the mixture. Tip: For maximum flavor, let the coated bread sit for 5 minutes to absorb the oils and seasonings.
4. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Tip: Ensure they’re not touching to allow for even crisping.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Tip: Watch closely during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.

Munch on these croutons as they are, or sprinkle them over a Caesar salad for an extra crunch. Their garlicky, cheesy flavor and satisfying crispness will elevate any dish they accompany.

Herbed Whole Wheat Croutons

Zesty and full of flavor, these herbed whole wheat croutons are the perfect way to add a crunchy, savory touch to your salads or soups. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and how they elevate any dish with their homemade charm.

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole wheat bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat bread cubes with extra-virgin olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
3. Add the finely chopped fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Toss gently to distribute the herbs and spices evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching for even crisping.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, turning them halfway through for uniform browning.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving to allow them to crisp up further.

How delightful these croutons turn out—crispy on the outside, slightly chewy inside, bursting with herby goodness. Try them atop a creamy butternut squash soup or scattered over a fresh arugula salad for a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Spicy Cajun Croutons

Now, if you’re looking to add a little crunch and a lot of flavor to your salads or soups, these Spicy Cajun Croutons are your go-to. They’re easy to whip up and pack a punch that’ll elevate any dish.

Ingredients

• 3 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with olive oil, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
3. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt over the bread cubes. Toss again to distribute the spices uniformly.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even crisping.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, turning them halfway through for uniform cooking.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to crisp up further.

Made these croutons and they’re irresistibly crunchy with a smoky, spicy kick that’s not overpowering. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup or as a bold addition to your next Caesar salad for an extra layer of flavor.

Rosemary Olive Oil Croutons

Very few things can elevate a simple salad or soup like homemade rosemary olive oil croutons. You’ll love how these crispy, golden bites add a gourmet touch to your meals with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tsp sea salt flakes
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with extra-virgin olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
3. Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh rosemary, sea salt flakes, and freshly ground black pepper over the bread cubes. Toss gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even crisping.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through for uniform color.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow them to crisp up further.

With their irresistible crunch and aromatic rosemary flavor, these croutons are perfect for topping off a creamy tomato soup or adding a textural contrast to a fresh arugula salad. Why not try them as a sophisticated snack with a glass of your favorite wine?

Cheesy Sourdough Croutons

Now, imagine transforming that leftover sourdough loaf into something irresistibly crunchy and cheesy. These Cheesy Sourdough Croutons are your salad’s new best friend or the perfect snack to munch on straight out of the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sourdough bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sourdough cubes with extra-virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper over the bread cubes. Toss again to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Tip: Avoid overcrowding to ensure each crouton gets crispy.
5. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and flip each crouton for even browning.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded cheddar cheese over the croutons. Tip: Adding cheese halfway through baking prevents burning.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
8. Let the croutons cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: They crisp up more as they cool.

Perfectly crispy on the outside with a slightly chewy center, these croutons pack a punch of umami from the cheeses and a hint of smokiness. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup or as a gourmet garnish for your next Caesar salad.

Bacon Ranch Croutons

Craving something crunchy, savory, and downright irresistible? These Bacon Ranch Croutons are your answer, turning any salad or soup from meh to wow with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 4 slices thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, rendered and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup clarified butter, melted
• 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning (dried buttermilk powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with melted clarified butter until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the homemade ranch seasoning over the bread cubes, tossing again to ensure each piece is well-seasoned.
4. Add the rendered bacon pieces and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano to the bowl, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
5. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even crisping.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow them to crisp up further.

Absolutely addictive, these croutons boast a perfect crunch with a smoky, cheesy, and herby flavor profile. Try them atop a creamy tomato bisque or as a bold garnish for your next Caesar salad.

Everything Bagel Croutons

Bite into something unexpectedly crunchy and flavorful with these everything bagel croutons. Perfect for elevating your salads or soups, they’re a game-changer with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 everything bagels, day-old, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the bagel cubes with extra-virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt over the bagel cubes, tossing again to ensure even seasoning distribution.
4. Spread the seasoned bagel cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for uniform crisping.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, stirring halfway through to promote even browning.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow them to crisp up further.

Enjoy these everything bagel croutons for their irresistible crunch and savory depth. They’re fantastic sprinkled over a creamy tomato soup or as a bold topping for your next Caesar salad.

Sun-Dried Tomato Croutons

Alright, you’re about to make your salads and soups way more exciting with these sun-dried tomato croutons. They’re crispy, packed with flavor, and super easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, rosemary, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add the bread cubes to the bowl. Gently toss until each cube is evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.

Now, these croutons aren’t just any croutons. They’ve got a perfect crunch and a burst of umami from the sun-dried tomatoes. Try them on a Caesar salad or as a topping for your favorite creamy soup.

Maple Cinnamon Croutons

Alright, let’s dive into making these irresistible Maple Cinnamon Croutons. You’re going to love how they add a sweet, crunchy twist to your salads or soups.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and pure maple syrup, whisking until fully incorporated.
3. Add the day-old artisan bread cubes to the bowl, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the maple butter mixture.
4. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and fine sea salt over the bread cubes, tossing again to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for even crisping.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then flip each crouton to ensure even browning and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes; they’ll crisp up further as they cool.

Lightly spiced with cinnamon and sweetened with maple, these croutons offer a delightful crunch. Try them over a butternut squash soup or as a topping for your morning yogurt for a surprising twist.

Smoky Paprika Croutons

Alright, let’s dive into making these Smoky Paprika Croutons that’ll elevate any salad or soup from good to unforgettable. You’re going to love the crunch and the smoky depth these little guys bring to the table.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with extra-virgin olive oil, tossing gently to ensure each piece is lightly coated.
3. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, and fine sea salt over the bread cubes. Toss again to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for even crisping.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, stirring halfway through to promote even browning.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes; they’ll crisp up further as they cool.

Unbelievably crunchy with a smoky, garlicky kick, these croutons are a game-changer. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup or scattered over a crisp Caesar salad for a textural contrast that’s downright addictive.

Lemon Pepper Croutons

Did you know that the simplest ingredients can transform into something extraordinary? These lemon pepper croutons are your salad’s new best friend, adding a zesty crunch that’s downright addictive.

Ingredients

• 3 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tbsp finely grated lemon zest
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and finely grated lemon zest until emulsified.
3. Add the day-old artisan bread cubes to the bowl, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the lemon-oil mixture.
4. Sprinkle the freshly cracked black pepper, sea salt, and garlic powder over the bread cubes, tossing again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
5. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for even crisping.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, stirring halfway through to promote even browning.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow the croutons to crisp up further.

Now, these lemon pepper croutons boast a perfect balance of tangy and spicy, with a satisfying crunch that elevates any dish. Try them atop a creamy avocado salad or as a garnish for your favorite soup to add a burst of flavor and texture.

Pesto Croutons

Ready to elevate your salad or soup game? These pesto croutons are your ticket to adding a crunchy, herby punch to any dish. You’ll love how simple they are to make, yet how much flavor they pack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp homemade basil pesto
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with extra-virgin olive oil, tossing gently to ensure each piece is lightly coated. Tip: Use a silicone spatula to mix; it’s gentle on the bread and ensures even coating.
3. Add the homemade basil pesto, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Fold the ingredients together until the bread cubes are evenly coated with the pesto mixture. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before baking to allow the bread to absorb the pesto.
4. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through the baking time for even color. Tip: Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the croutons cool for 5 minutes on the sheet. They’ll crisp up further as they cool.

These pesto croutons offer a delightful crunch with a vibrant, herby flavor that’s irresistible. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup or scattered over a fresh caprese salad for an extra layer of texture and taste.

Za’atar Spiced Croutons

Did you know that za’atar spiced croutons can transform any salad or soup from mundane to extraordinary? You’ll love the herby, nutty crunch they add to your dishes.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp za’atar spice blend
• 1 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sourdough cubes with extra-virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the za’atar spice blend and fine sea salt over the bread cubes, tossing again to ensure each piece is well seasoned.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even crisping.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through for uniform color.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow them to crisp up further.

Fresh out of the oven, these za’atar spiced croutons boast a perfect balance of crunch and chew, with a fragrant, earthy flavor profile. Try them atop a creamy butternut squash soup or scattered over a vibrant fattoush salad for an extra layer of texture and taste.

Garlic Butter Croutons

You know those moments when you’re craving something crispy, buttery, and utterly irresistible? Garlic butter croutons are your answer, transforming any salad or soup from meh to magnificent with just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, clarified
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the clarified butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn. Tip: Burnt garlic turns bitter, so keep the heat low.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, sea salt, and black pepper.
4. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the bread, tossing gently to ensure each cube is evenly coated. Tip: Use a rubber spatula for gentle tossing to prevent the bread from breaking apart.
5. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each crouton and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Tip: Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.

Kick your culinary game up a notch with these garlic butter croutons. Their golden crunch and aromatic garlic flavor make them a versatile topping, not just for soups and salads but also as a crunchy garnish for creamy pasta dishes.

Chili Lime Croutons

Fancy a crunchy, zesty twist to your salads or soups? These chili lime croutons are your go-to for adding a punch of flavor and texture to any dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp clarified butter, melted
• 1 tbsp lime zest, finely grated
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt, finely ground
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with melted clarified butter, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
3. Sprinkle lime zest, chili powder, sea salt, and cayenne pepper over the bread cubes. Toss gently to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to crisp up further.

With their fiery kick and citrusy brightness, these croutons elevate a simple bowl of greens or a creamy soup into something extraordinary. Try them sprinkled over avocado toast for an unexpected crunch.

Onion and Poppy Seed Croutons

Zesty and crunchy, these onion and poppy seed croutons are the perfect way to add a little pizzazz to your salads or soups. You’ll love how the savory onion pairs with the nutty poppy seeds for a flavor that’s anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
• 3 tablespoons clarified butter
• 4 cups day-old sourdough bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the clarified butter. Add the finely diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Tip: For even cooking, make sure your onion pieces are uniformly sized.
4. Add the poppy seeds to the skillet and toast with the onions for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Tip: Toasting the poppy seeds enhances their nutty flavor, so don’t skip this step.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the sourdough cubes until evenly coated with the onion and poppy seed mixture.
7. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, turning halfway through to ensure even browning.
9. Tip: Keep an eye on the croutons during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.

These croutons offer a delightful crunch with a savory depth from the onions and a subtle nuttiness from the poppy seeds. Try them atop a creamy butternut squash soup for a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Balsamic Glazed Croutons

Vibrant and versatile, these balsamic glazed croutons are the perfect way to add a gourmet touch to your salads or soups. You’ll love the sweet and tangy flavor they bring to the table.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp raw honey
• 1 tsp sea salt flakes
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and raw honey until emulsified.
3. Add the bread cubes to the bowl, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch for even crisping.
5. Sprinkle the sea salt flakes, freshly cracked black pepper, and fresh thyme leaves over the bread cubes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, turning them halfway through for uniform color.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow them to crisp up further.

Kick your salad game up a notch with these croutons, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup for an unexpected twist.

Jalapeño Cheddar Croutons

Unbelievably crunchy and packed with a spicy kick, these Jalapeño Cheddar Croutons are about to become your salad’s best friend. Perfect for adding a bold flavor to any dish, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely diced
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and olive oil, whisking until fully blended.
3. Add the bread cubes to the bowl, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the butter and oil mixture.
4. Sprinkle the grated cheddar, diced jalapeño, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt over the bread cubes. Toss again to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for even crisping.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving to allow them to crisp up further.

So there you have it—crunchy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of heat, these croutons are a game-changer. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup or scattered over a crisp Caesar salad for an unforgettable crunch.

Thyme and Black Pepper Croutons

Now, let’s talk about making your salads and soups a whole lot better with some homemade thyme and black pepper croutons. You’ll love how these crunchy bits add a punch of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old artisan bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, olive oil, thyme leaves, black pepper, and sea salt. Toss gently until the bread is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even crisping.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving to allow them to crisp up further.

Lightly golden and irresistibly crunchy, these croutons bring a herbaceous kick with every bite. Try them atop a creamy tomato soup or as a bold garnish for your next Caesar salad.

Sweet Potato Croutons

Just imagine biting into these crispy, golden sweet potato croutons—your salads and soups will never be the same. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and the hint of natural sweetness they bring to every dish.

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potato with extra-virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the sweet potatoes, tossing again to ensure even seasoning.
4. Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for optimal crispiness.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then flip each cube carefully to promote even browning.
6. Continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are deeply golden and crispy on the edges.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet; they’ll crisp up further as they cool.

Yield to the irresistible crunch of these sweet potato croutons—their smoky, slightly sweet flavor makes them a standout garnish. Try them atop a creamy butternut squash soup or scattered over a kale Caesar for a nutritious twist.

Summary

Variety is the spice of life, and our roundup of 20 Crispy Crouton Recipes offers just that—endless possibilities to elevate any meal. Whether you’re dressing up a salad or adding crunch to soup, there’s a recipe here for every occasion. We’d love to hear which ones become your favorites—drop us a comment below! And don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

Louise Cutler

I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.