Are you looking for a simple and delicious way to add some crunch and flavor to your favorite soup or salad? These crispy, buttery croutons are the perfect solution! They bring a delightful texture and savory taste to any dish, and the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make at home! With just a few basic ingredients and a little prep time, you’ll have a batch of golden croutons ready to elevate your meals.
Personally, I love pairing these with creamy mushroom soup or a classic tomato soup (click the links for recipes!). And of course, they’re absolutely amazing in salads, too. I recommend this Tuna Salad with Tomatoes and Cheese. It’s a refreshing, quick, and delicious meal, perfect for any time of day.
Let’s dive in and make something special together!
Homemade Buttered Croutons for Soups and Salads
Equipment
Ingredients
6 slices of bread your favorite kind works best- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder option
- 1/3 tsp ground black pepper to taste
- 1/3 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano optional
- 1/2 tsp dried basil optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it’s heating, slice your bread into strips and then cut it into bite-sized cubes (about 1 cm each).
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, pour it into a large mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil (or any other seasonings you prefer). Mix well.
- Add the bread cubes to the bowl with the butter mixture. Toss gently to ensure every piece of bread is evenly coated with the buttery goodness and spices.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for even baking.
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons turn golden brown and crispy. Check them occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Notes
- If you prefer extra buttery croutons, feel free to drizzle a bit more melted butter before baking.
- Stale bread works wonderfully for this recipe, as it’s firmer and absorbs the butter and seasonings beautifully.
- Store leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to a week to keep them fresh.
