This bagel crouton recipe makes the easiest, most satisfying croutons. It takes minutes to throw together and only has 4 ingredients!
Like most things around my house, this recipe came simply out of necessity. Croutons aren’t something I typically have in the cupboard, as I often don’t think to buy them when I’m out shopping.
So when it’s time for Caesar salad, or any meal that would be made better with croutons, I’m scrounging. I decided to try using bagels to make croutons, and I haven’t gone back!
Bagels make perfect croutons. They already have loads of flavour (especially if you use Everything Bagels), and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Perhaps our favourite part is that they remain slightly chewy in the center, which we love. It’s the perfect blend.
How to make this bagel croutons recipe
First, slice up 4 bagels into bite-sized pieces. No need to be perfect here. Rustic pieces add to the homemade charm.
Place bagel pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add other dried herbs here (like parsley or Italian seasoning), though if using Everything Bagels, they are well-seasoned already.
Bake bagel croutons for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through until toasted. Remove from oven and cool completely.
FAQ:
How do I use croutons?
Croutons are classic and can be used in all kinds of recipes! Here are a few ideas:
- Caesar salad
- To top soups (such as tomato or creamy broccoli soup)
- Topping casseroles
- Stuffing for turkey
- Alongside scrambled eggs
- In place of rice in stuffed peppers or stuffed zucchini
- To make breadcrumbs with loads of flavour!
How do I store croutons?
Bagel croutons can be stored in an airtight container in the cupboard for up to 4 days.
How do I keep croutons crispy?
When baking the croutons, be sure to space them out so that they aren’t touching each other. This ensures that every crouton is toasted and evenly crisped.
Is it okay to freeze croutons?
Yup! Simply place them in an airtight container and freeze up to 3 months. If they are soft when thawed, just place them back in the oven to crisp up. Head’s up: while you can freeze them, they are at their best when fresh.
Items you may need:
Bagel Crouton recipe variations:
This recipe is easy to switch up based on what you have. Instead of Everything Bagels, try using these suggestions:
- cheese bagels
- sesame seed bagels
- baguette
- French or Italian bread
- Thick-sliced texas toast
- leftover ciabatta buns
You can also play around with herbs and spices. Dried parsley, Italian Seasoning, basil, thyme, or oregano are all great options. Dried chilli flakes amp up both flavour and heat also!
Some more recipes you might love:
Cranberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Sausage, White Bean, & Rapini Soup
If you try this recipe and love it, I would love it if you gave it 5 stars!
Bagel Croutons
Ingredients
- 4 Everything Bagels
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ⅛-¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°. Slice 4 bagels into bite-sized pieces. No need to be perfect here. Rustic pieces add to the homemade charm.
- Place bagel pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Bake bagel croutons for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until toasted. Remove from oven and cool completely.
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