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If you’ve ever had a loaf of bread start to go stale, don’t toss it! With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform almost-stale bread into delicious, crispy homemade Italian croutons. These croutons are perfect for adding crunch to salads, soups, or even enjoying as a snack. Follow my step-by-step YouTube video to see just how easy it is to make this simple, flavorful treat.

If you love baking your bread, you know that homemade loaves usually lack preservatives, which means they start to firm up after just a few days. Check out my collection of bread recipes here. When your bread starts to go stale, usually after three days, it’s the perfect opportunity to salvage it by making croutons. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also gives you a tasty kitchen staple that keeps well in an airtight container.

Here’s the simple recipe. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to match your flavor preference.

Homemade Italian Croutons

Crispy, flavorful, and perfect for salads, soups, or snacking!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Salad

Equipment

  • 1 oven
  • 1 baking pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf bread (10-12 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes. Almost stale bread works best—it soaks up the seasoning without becoming soggy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  • Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes.
  • Carefully switch to the broiler on high for 1-2 minutes to get a golden-brown, crispy finish. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Allow croutons to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Notes

  • Use sourdough, baguette, or gluten-free bread for different textures and flavors.
  • Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a custom twist.
  • Sprinkle with vegan parmesan after baking for extra indulgence.

Save this recipe so you’ll always have a go-to way to turn leftover bread into something amazing. Homemade Italian croutons are quick, versatile, and utterly irresistible!