Homemade Garlic & Herb Croutons

If you’ve ever wondered how to take your salads, soups, or even snacking game to the next level, the answer is simple: Homemade Garlic & Herb Croutons. Once you try making croutons at home, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought kind again!

Why Make Croutons at Home?

While store-bought croutons are convenient, they often come with extra sodium, preservatives, and oils you don’t really need. Making them at home lets you:

• Control the seasonings and salt
• Use high-quality ingredients like extra virgin olive oil
• Customize the flavor with your favorite herbs and spices
• Enjoy a fresher, crispier bite

They also make your kitchen smell absolutely amazing while they bake!

Tips & Variations

• Use different bread: Whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free bread works great too.
• Cheesy croutons: Add grated Parmesan before baking for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Try cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little kick.

Ways to Enjoy Garlic & Herb Croutons

These croutons are so versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to use them:

• Toss them into a Caesar salad (try my Salmon Caesar Salad for the perfect pairing).
• Sprinkle over creamy soups like tomato, butternut squash, or potato leek.
• Crush and use as a topping for casseroles or baked mac & cheese.
• Snack on them by the handful (seriously, they’re that good!).

Homemade Garlic & Herb Croutons are proof that the simplest things can make the biggest difference. With minimal effort, you can create crunchy, flavorful croutons that elevate any meal. Enjoy!

Print Pin

Homemade Garlic & Herb Croutons

Makes 4-6 cups

Author Beautiful Eats & Things

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread about 12 ounces, cut into ¾-inch cubes
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning homemade or store-bought
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
• In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil evenly over the bread cubes. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until the bread is well coated.
• Spread the cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
• Remove from oven and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Notes

Nutrition Information: (per ½ cup) Calories: 142 | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Sodium: 171mg