Cheesy Herb Croutons
recipe to elevate your salads, soups, or just for snacking!
### **Cheesy Herb Croutons**
#### **Ingredients:**
- 4 cups **cubed bread** (sourdough, baguette, or Italian bread)
- 3 tbsp **olive oil** or melted **butter**
- ½ tsp **garlic powder**
- ½ tsp **onion powder**
- ½ tsp **dried oregano**
- ½ tsp **dried thyme**
- ½ tsp **dried basil**
- ¼ tsp **salt** (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp **black pepper**
- ½ cup **grated Parmesan** (or a mix of Parmesan and cheddar for extra cheesiness)
- ¼ cup **shredded mozzarella** (optional, for extra gooeyness)
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven** to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cube the bread** into ½-1 inch pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl.
3. **Mix seasoning**: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil (or butter), garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and black pepper.
4. **Coat the bread**: Drizzle the seasoning mixture over the bread cubes and toss well to coat evenly.
5. **Add cheese**: Sprinkle Parmesan (and mozzarella if using) over the croutons and toss again.
6. **Bake**: Spread the croutons in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for **12-15 minutes**, tossing halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. **Cool & store**: Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to **a week**.
### **Serving Ideas:**
- Sprinkle over **salads** (Caesar, garden, or pasta salads)
- Toss into **soups** (tomato, creamy broccoli, or French onion)
- Enjoy as a **snack** with a cheese dip
Would you like any modifications based on your preferences? ????