Homemade Croutons

This is a fun recipe to know because everyone knows there are croutons and then there are Homemade Croutons. The homemade are just better in every single way. I don't know how else to say it, they make all the difference when you're making a salad.

The best way to start homemade croutons is with leftover bread. You can even use leftover sandwich bread if it's what you have on hand. The slight staleness of it makes it easier to toast! However, if you don't have any you can easily use a fresh loaf you pick up at the store and start there.

I like to season my croutons really well because the flavor is so good in big salads. I choose my seasonings based on the salad I'm making. For example, I like a lot of garlic when I'm making a Caesar Salad, but I might just use sea salt when I'm making a lot summer salad. You can even use these croutons to make a Panzanella salad if you'd like. They would work well!

Once you learn this method for making Homemade Croutons you won't stop. They're the perfect, crunchy addition to any salad you make at home!

Easy Homemade Croutons 

I think homemade croutons really level-up a salad. My kids love Caesar salad I always make these for them. 

Ingredients 

• 3–4 cups day-old bread, cut into cubes (sourdough, baguette, ciabatta, or country loaf work best) 

• 3 tbsp olive oil 

• melted butter 

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or ½ tsp garlic powder 

• ½ tsp salt (to taste) 

• ¼ tsp black pepper 

• Optional seasonings: 

• ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme 

• ¼ tsp paprika 

• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan 

Instructions 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 

2. Place the bread cubes in a bowl. Drizzle with oil or butter, add garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Toss well until evenly coated. 

3. Spread bread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, toss, then bake another 5–10 minutes until golden and crisp. 

4. Let croutons cool completely — they’ll crisp up more as they cool. Toss with the salad and serve immediately. 

Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.