Description
These crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Croutons are a quick and easy way to add a crunchy texture to your salads and soups. Made with simple ingredients like day-old bread, olive oil, and herbs, they cook to perfection in just minutes using an air fryer, delivering a healthier alternative to traditional frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Croutons
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread, sourdough, or any bread of choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat to ensure even cooking of the croutons.
- Season the Bread Cubes: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed day-old bread with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper until all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air Fry the Croutons: Cook the bread cubes at 375°F for 5 to 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on all sides until golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Add Cheese: Remove the croutons from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. While still warm, optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy the croutons over your favorite soup or salad, or simply as a crunchy snack.
Notes
- Using day-old bread gives you better texture as fresh bread may become too soft or soggy.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, or rosemary for varied flavors.
- Make sure the bread cubes are evenly coated with olive oil to get a crisp texture.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even crispiness.
- Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
