This HOMEMADE CROUTONS RECIPE is super simple. Impress everyone including yourself with these HEALTHY BAKED CROUTONS! I love that these are BAKED and not fried, making them a healthier alternative to this classic recipe. They're the perfect way to take any salad from good to great.
Pour the olive oil/garlic mixture through a fine mesh sieve set over a large bowl. Press the garlic with a rubber spatula or the back of a wooden spoon to extract as much garlic oil as possible. Reserve the garlic for another use.
Microwave the butter, in a small bowl, at 30% power for 20-40 seconds. The butter could bubble over, so watch closely in the last 10 seconds. Add the oil to the melted butter and stir well.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Add the salt, black pepper, and your favorite herbs/seasonings to the butter/oil mixture, then add the bread cubes. Toss until the cubes are evenly coated in the oil/butter mixture.
Kosher salt, Freshly ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, 3 cups rustic bread or baguette
Pour the croutons onto a rimmed baking sheet and bake 15-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese, and toss until all croutons are covered. Allow to cool completely.
4 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
Video
Notes
Storage: Store homemade croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.