Transform your day-old bread into a crunchy salad topping with this easy Air-Fryer Croutons recipe!
We eat salads because we all need our greens—but why not create something we truly enjoy? Sometimes the difference between “just ok” and “wow” is as simple as adding homemade croutons. And thanks to your air fryer, they’re incredibly easy to make.
While store-bought croutons have long since been the norm, these crunchy nuggets harken back to medieval times. The word itself is of French origin, but its history is murky. However, we do know that French home cooks added croutons to soups to add substance. At some point along the way, this practice extended to tossing them into salads. By the 20th century, croutons had found their way into every salad bar and packaged fast-food salad available.
If you’ve never made your own croutons, you’ll be surprised at how simple it is—your air fryer will have them ready in under ten minutes! The texture and flavor are noticeably better than store-bought croutons. Air-fryer croutons boast a crisp crunch that soaks up the salad dressing, along with a pleasant zing of Italian seasoning and garlic powder. These croutons turn any ordinary tossed salad or soup bowl into a restaurant-worthy experience!
What type of bread to use?
When it comes to bread choice, this recipe is very forgiving. You can use almost any kind of unsliced bread (sliced bread is usually too thin). My personal favorites are sourdough, French baguette, or Italian bread. Have fun experimenting and see what you like best. Whatever you choose, stick with day-old bread. Not only does it reduce food waste, but the olive oil and air fryer do wonders, turning your stale bread into crunchy croutons!
How do I store leftovers?
This is a recipe you can make ahead or in batches. Store extras or leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The humidity of the refrigerator kills their crispness, so keep them at room temperature.
You can also freeze croutons (packaged the same way) for up to 6 months. Thaw at room temperature and re-crisp in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5-8 minutes.
Serving suggestions
Serve air-fryer croutons on top of your favorite salads. For instance, they taste great on a creamy Caesar Salad or a sweet Apple-Walnut Salad. They’re especially delicious in French Onion Soup—just be sure to cut the croutons into larger chunks, since you’ll be melting cheese over them. That way, you get maximum surface area for the wonderful cheese topping.
Air-Fryer Croutons
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread preferably day-old, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Place the bread cubes in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently until all cubes are evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Place the seasoned bread cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Remove when croutons are golden and crisp.
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