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Air Fryer Croutons Recipe

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Air fryer croutons turn leftover bread into crispy, golden bites with olive oil, garlic, and savory herbs. They are ready in minutes and perfect for salads, soups, casseroles, or snacking.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups bread, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Instructions

  1. Cut the bread into approximately 3/4-inch cubes, keeping the pieces similar in size for even cooking.
  2. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
  3. Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the Parmesan cheese if using.
  4. Toss thoroughly until the bread cubes are lightly and evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes if recommended for your model.
  6. Transfer the seasoned bread cubes to the air-fryer basket in a relatively even layer, avoiding overcrowding when possible.
  7. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes, shaking the basket every 2 minutes to promote even browning.
  8. Remove the croutons when crisp and golden brown. Avoid cooking them until excessively dark because they will continue to crisp slightly as they cool.
  9. Let the croutons cool completely before serving or storing.

Notes

  • French bread, Italian bread, sourdough, baguette, sandwich bread, or another sturdy bread can be used.
  • Day-old or slightly stale bread works especially well because its lower moisture content helps the croutons become crisp.
  • For garlic Parmesan croutons, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and a few tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan.
  • For herb croutons, use additional Italian seasoning or a combination of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
  • For spicy croutons, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
  • For vegan croutons, omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Do not overcrowd the air-fryer basket, as this can prevent the croutons from becoming evenly crisp.
  • Store completely cooled croutons in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for about 1 week.
  • If stored croutons lose their crunch, air fry them at 325°F (165°C) for 1–3 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/air-fryer-croutons-recipe/