Paprika & parmesan croutons

These paprika & parmesan croutons are a quick and easy way to add a crunchy, savory element to salads and soups. Made with just white bread, olive oil, and spices, they offer a delightful smoky flavor after baking until golden brown.

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05 May 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

4 slices white bread
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Paprika & parmesan croutons

Paprika & parmesan croutons are the perfect way to add a flavorful crunch to your salads, soups, or even as a tasty snack. Easy to make and requiring just a few ingredients, these croutons will elevate your dishes with their savory and slightly smoky taste.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Bread: Take the 4 slices of white bread and cut them into small cubes, roughly about 1-inch pieces, for croutons. You can discard the crusts if you prefer softer croutons, but keeping them on will provide additional texture.
3. Mix Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Stir well to ensure the paprika is evenly distributed throughout the oil.
4. Coat Bread: Add the bread cubes to the bowl with the seasoned oil. Use a spatula or your hands to toss the bread cubes, making sure each piece is lightly coated with the paprika and olive oil mixture.
5. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the 1/3 cup of grated parmesan cheese over the seasoned bread cubes. Toss again to ensure an even distribution of the cheese over the croutons.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t piled on top of each other so they can cook evenly and become crispy.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crunchy. You should stir or flip the croutons halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
8. Cool and Store: Once baked, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, you can use them immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Enjoy your freshly made paprika & parmesan croutons! Whether tossed into a Caesar salad, sprinkled over a bowl of tomato soup, or simply eaten on their own, these croutons are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Paprika & parmesan croutons FAQ:

What is the best baking time for croutons?

Bake the croutons at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Stir or flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

How can I tell when the croutons are done?

The croutons are done when they are golden brown and crunchy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning.

Can I use a different type of bread for croutons?

Yes, you can use different types of bread such as whole grain, sourdough, or gluten-free bread. Just adjust the baking time if needed based on the bread type.

How should I store leftover croutons?

Once cooled, store the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure they are completely cool to maintain their crunch.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If you need a substitute for parmesan cheese, consider using pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast for a vegan option, or any hard cheese that has a similar flavor profile.

Cooking Tips:

- Use slightly stale bread: Using slightly stale bread can help the croutons become extra crispy when baked.

- Mix ingredients well: Ensure that the bread cubes are evenly coated with olive oil, paprika, and parmesan to maximize flavor.

- Bake evenly: Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly and become uniformly crispy.

- Store properly: Once cooled, store the croutons in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 120kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 1.24g
Sugar 2.00g
Fat 10g

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