Savory Garlic & Herb Croutons
Elevate your meals with these homemade Savory Garlic & Herb Croutons that are bursting with flavor! Perfectly golden and crispy, these croutons are a versatile addition to salads, soups, or simply enjoyed as a snack. Once you make these, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions. For the best texture, use slightly stale bread or refrigerate fresh bread overnight. For garlic enthusiasts, feel free to ramp up the garlic powder or use minced garlic for an intense flavor. Infusing the melted butter with garlic allows the delicious aroma and taste to permeate every bite, and by making a double batch, you can easily stock your pantry or freezer for future use!
N/A
Servings
80
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
bread
12-15 slices (crusts removed, slightly stale recommended)
butter
1/2 cup (melted (can use more for richer flavor))
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (or to taste, or use 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (or use 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt)
dried parsley
3 teaspoons (optional or to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2
Lightly grease a large baking sheet to prevent sticking.
3
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic), and salt or seasoned salt.
4
Microwave the mixture until the butter is fully melted, being careful not to overheat.
5
Stir in the dried parsley, if desired.
6
For maximum garlic flavor, allow the melted butter mixture to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
7
Brush the melted butter mixture generously on both sides of the bread slices using a pastry brush.
8
Using a serrated knife, cut each slice into small cubes or your preferred size.
9
Spread the bread cubes evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
10
Bake for 25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
11
Once baked, allow the croutons to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for longer preservation.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
6g
Carbs
0.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Garlic & Herb Croutons?
These are homemade, crispy bread cubes seasoned with garlic and herbs, perfect for salads, soups, or snacking.
What is the main ingredient for this recipe?
The main ingredient is bread, specifically 12 to 15 slices with the crusts removed.
What type of bread works best for croutons?
Slightly stale bread is recommended for the best texture, though fresh bread can be used if refrigerated overnight.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of melted butter, but you can use more for a richer flavor.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh minced garlic for the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
What kind of salt should I use?
You can use 1/4 teaspoon of regular salt or 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt for extra flavor.
Is dried parsley a required ingredient?
Dried parsley is optional and can be adjusted to your taste preference.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 160 degrees Celsius.
How long do the croutons need to bake?
Bake the croutons for 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
How do I prevent the croutons from sticking to the pan?
Lightly grease a large baking sheet before spreading the bread cubes on it.
How should I prepare the butter mixture?
Combine the butter, garlic, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl and heat until fully melted.
How can I make the garlic flavor more intense?
Allow the melted butter and garlic mixture to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using it.
When should I brush the butter on the bread?
Brush the butter mixture generously on both sides of the bread slices before cutting them into cubes.
What is the best way to cut the bread slices?
Use a serrated knife to cut the buttered slices into small, even cubes.
Do I need to monitor the croutons while they bake?
Yes, monitor them closely to prevent burning as they become golden and crispy.
How should the croutons be cooled?
Allow the croutons to cool completely on the baking sheet before storing them.
Where is the best place to store homemade croutons?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or the freezer for longer preservation.
Can I freeze these croutons?
Yes, these croutons can be frozen in an airtight container to keep them fresh for future use.
How many calories are in a serving of these croutons?
Each serving contains approximately 80 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 6 grams of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in these croutons?
Each serving provides about 0.8 grams of protein.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
The recipe data does not list a specific fiber content.
Can I make a double batch?
Yes, making a double batch is recommended so you can stock your pantry or freezer.
What are some suggested uses for these croutons?
They are excellent in salads and soups, or they can be eaten alone as a snack.
Should I remove the bread crusts?
The recipe suggests removing the crusts for a more uniform texture.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a microwave-safe bowl, a pastry brush, a serrated knife, and a large baking sheet.
Can I use seasoned salt instead of plain salt?
Yes, the recipe allows for substituting 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt for the plain salt.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: bread, butter, garlic powder, salt, and dried parsley.
Why should I use stale bread?
Stale bread holds its shape better and results in a crispier texture after baking.