Homemade Texas Roadhouse-Style Croutons Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Day-old French bread | 4 cups, cubed |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup, melted |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fine sea salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the day-old French bread into 3/4-inch cubes to ensure even baking and a consistent texture.
- Season the Bread Cubes: Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the melted butter over them, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Gently toss until all cubes are evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the croutons for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary based on cube size and oven specifics.
- Cool and Store: Once golden brown and crispy, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Alternative Ingredient Options
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the French bread with your favorite gluten-free bread to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Replace the melted butter with extra-virgin olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make the croutons suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 155 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 11mg |
| Sodium | 289mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Serving Suggestions
- Salad Topper: Sprinkle over your favorite salads for added crunch and flavor.
- Soup Garnish: Add to hot soups like tomato or butternut squash for texture contrast.
- Stuffing Ingredient: Incorporate into homemade stuffing for enhanced taste.
- Snack: Enjoy as a standalone snack for a savory bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q: Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread? A: Using day-old bread is recommended as it holds its shape better and results in crispier croutons. Fresh bread may become too soft during baking. Q: How should I store leftover croutons? A: Once cooled, store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their crispness. Q: Can I freeze homemade croutons? A: Yes, you can freeze them. Place cooled croutons in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven before use. Q: What other seasonings can I use? A: Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley, and spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper to customize the flavor. By following this recipe, you can bring the delightful crunch and flavor of Texas Roadhouse-style croutons to your homemade dishes. Enjoy! Sources
