Garlic Parmesan Croutons

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Garlic parmesan croutons! Crispy little numbers that are absolutely loaded with cheesy garlic herb flavor and are ready to take your soup or salad to the next level.

a close up of cheesy garlic parmesan croutons in a pile

Make these garlic parmesan croutons today

In case you couldn't tell by that golden, spice-covered crouton glistening with crispiness up there, these parmesan croutons are life. They are absolutely packed full of flavor thanks to a couple of little tricks soon to be up your sleeve.

You're going to start your parmesan crouton adventure with a trip to the best bread bakery in your area. For us, that's Tall Tree Bakery. If they have a loaf of cheese bread, herb bread, or some flavor that just sounds fantastic, pick up an unsliced loaf of that.

Once you're home, slice that tasty loaf of bread into cubes. We've cut these ones into (about) 1 ½ inch cubes, but you can cut them as big or small as you want. Just know that if they're smaller (like our mini soup croutons), they'll need less time in the oven.

Now put those cheese bread cubes into a bowl with a generous amount of olive oil, spices, and parmesan cheese and mix them around until all the little nooks and crannies in the bread are covered in tastiness. If any of the cheese and herbs fall to the bottom of the bowl take a few bread cubes and swipe them through the flavor so that every last drop is on the bread. After a short stint in the oven, be prepared to stand at your stovetop risking burnt fingertips just to snack on these delicious hot cheesy croutons.

These little gems are so easy to make that there's really no reason not to treat yourself to them today.

The ingredients to make garlic parmesan croutons

Ingredients you'll need

Cheese bread – Sure, you could use a regular unsliced loaf of bread to make these parmesan croutons, but why would you do that? Starting with cheese bread ensures a deliciously cheesy flavor throughout.

Olive oil – This is what makes the croutons crispy. Without it, they would be little dried out pieces of toast.

Parmesan cheese – After you grate it, crumble it with your fingers into a powder; it'll stick better this way.

Nutritional yeast – Yes, this is often used as a dairy-free substitute for parmesan cheese. But its flavor is wonderful and really adds to these croutons.

Spices – Here we're looking at garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don't be shocked by the generous portions, it's the perfect amount for bringing big-time delicious flavor to these croutons.

Cheesy Parmesan Croutons: FAQs

What's the best way to store croutons?

Homemade croutons should be stored in a resealable bag on your counter. We like to use these reusable Stasher bags. These croutons will last for at least a week. If they soften at all you can crisp them up in the oven.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

While we can't recommend the stuff sold in plastic shaker bottles (it's full of fillers), buying real pre-grated parmesan then crumbling it with your fingers will definitely work for this recipe.

Do I need to use cheese bread?

While you can use any unsliced loaf of bread that is sturdy enough to cut into small pieces (ie: not ultra-soft sandwich bread), cheese bread is a really delicious treat. Another great option for making croutons is focaccia!

2 pictures showing parmesan croutons on a bowl of soup and in a salad

Use parmesan croutons on everything

These croutons feel right at home on a salad. They love being tossed in our bacon kale caesar salad or in our asparagus salad. Or level up the greens on your plate with a pile of these croutons on top.

Elevate your soup. While we really do love our mini soup croutons for soup, these parmesan croutons are perfect for when you want to fill your soup bowl with deliciously big crunchy bites. Pictured above are these croutons on top of our simple tomato bacon soup.

Level up your casserole. If you love crispy croutons on top of casserole (like mom's tuna rice casserole) then use these cheesy croutons and be prepared to be wowed.

Master your bread stuffing. Yes, we have a recipe for the best stuffing ever. And yes, it can be made even better than better by using these garlicky parmesan croutons.

Snacks! Chances are you'll find yourself going back to the hot out of the oven tray to sneak more and more bites. So why not put these into a bowl, turn on a movie, and snack!

More tasty crouton recipes

crispy garlic parmesan crouton on a baking tray

Try these parmesan croutons in these recipes