How to Make Croutons - Garlic Parmesan Croutons Recipe

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile and is healthier.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Make garlic oil by combining 1/2 cup olive oil with 4 cloves of very crushed or finely minced garlic. Let it infuse for a few hours at room temperature.

Cut the 8 oz loaf of French bread baguette in half, then in half again, and then into quarters, cutting it into cubes of similar size.

Place the bread cubes in a mixing bowl.

Strain the garlic-infused oil over the bread cubes, pressing out all the goodness with the back of a spoon.

Toss the bread cubes well with the garlic oil using a spatula until they are completely coated.

Add 1/2 cup finely grated real Parmesan cheese, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, about 1/2 teaspoon of salt, a shake of cayenne or paprika (if desired), and about 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs to the bowl. Toss again to combine.

Spread the coated bread cubes out on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not on top of each other.

Bake in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and toss the croutons before returning them to the oven.

Bake for an additional 15 minutes, then check if they are cooked. If not, push them together with a spatula and sprinkle with another 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.

Continue baking until the croutons are crispy and crunchy, which may take an additional 10-20 minutes. Monitor closely to avoid burning or undercooking.

Let the croutons cool completely before storing them to prevent sogginess.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens