Air Fryer Croutons
Are you a fan of salads and soups? Do you love crunchy croutons on top but hate the added calories that come with fried or store-bought versions? Look no further than air fryer croutons!
These crispy, flavorful bites are easy to make at home and are a healthier alternative to traditional croutons. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can elevate any dish with the satisfying crunch of homemade croutons.
Can You Air Fry Croutons?
The answer is yes! Air frying offers a healthier and convenient way to make croutons without sacrificing taste or texture. While it may seem unconventional at first, using an air fryer can produce equally delicious results as traditional methods. The hot circulating air inside the fryer helps achieve a golden-brown exterior while keeping the insides soft yet slightly dense.
The best part of having an air fryer is being able to make recipes quickly and in small batches. I love the ability to make croutons in the air fryer in small or larger batches depending on what I am serving.
Equipment Used To Make This Recipe
If you do not have an air fryer yet then I encourage you to look online on Amazon and read reviews. I purchased the Air Fryer made by Instapot and I love it.
If you are looking for a budget friendly air fryer then check out my blog post on The Best Air Fryers Under $100.
I have also become a huge fan of using Air Fryer Liners. They cover the bottom of the air fryer basket and food is placed directly onto them. When the food cooks it catches the grease and makes clean up a breeze. If you are looking for more ideas check out my blog post on Air Fryer Accessories.
Air Fryer Liners come in two forms
- Disposable Air Fryer Liners made from parchment paper.
- Silicone Air Fryer Liners that are dishwasher safe and reusable.
Air Fryer Croutons Recipe Ingredients
- 3 Slices of French Bread or Sourdough Bread
- 3 Tablespoons Melted Butter or Avocado Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Parsley Flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Salt
How To Make Crispy Air Fryer Croutons
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
In a microwave safe bowl gently melt the butter. If the butter is cold this can take up to 30 seconds depending on the power of your microwave. Set the butter aside and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Take the bread and cut it into bite sized pieces and place into a medium sized mixing bowl. Add the spices and seasonings to the bowl and toss with the bread crumbs. Once the seasonings appear to be evenly coating the bread pour the butter over the bread. Do this while stirring in order to ensure that all of the bread is covered with the butter.
If you are using an air fryer liner place it into the air fryer basket then add your croutons.
If you are not using an air fryer liner then use some avocado oil spray to coat the basket. This is to keep the croutons from sticking, then add the croutons.
Place the basket with the croutons into the air fryer and cook for 2 minutes. Open the air fryer and give the basket a shake to move the croutons around. If you are happy with how crispy the croutons are then go ahead and remove them.
If you want them crispier then place the basket back into the air fryer and cook another 2 minutes.
Remove the croutons from the air fryer and place back onto the cutting board to allow them to cool.
Add the croutons to your favorite salad or soup and enjoy!
Should I Use Oil Or Butter For Homemade Air Fried Croutons
If you’re a fan of delicious, crispy croutons, but want to make them healthier by using your air fryer instead of frying them in oil, you might be wondering whether to use oil or butter for your homemade version. Both have their own unique qualities and flavors, so let’s dive into the topic and help you make an informed decision!
Oil:
- Neutral flavor: Using a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil will allow the other flavors in your croutons to shine through.
- Light and airy texture: Oil helps create a light and crispy texture on the outside of your croutons without weighing them down.
- Vegan-friendly option: If you’re following a plant-based diet or have dietary restrictions that exclude dairy products, using oil is an excellent choice.
Butter:
- Rich flavor: Butter adds a rich, savory taste to your croutons that pairs well with various seasonings and spices.
- Golden color: Butter can give your croutons a beautiful golden hue during cooking, elevating their appearance.
- Enhanced aroma: The distinct aroma of melted butter can add another layer of deliciousness to your homemade croutons.
Considering these factors, which one should you choose? It ultimately depends on personal preference and dietary needs.
For those seeking a lighter alternative or following specific diets (such as vegan), using oil would be ideal. Its neutral flavor allows for versatility when seasoning the croutons while still achieving that satisfying crunch.
On the other hand, if indulgence is what you’re after or if butter complements the rest of your recipe ingredients then I highly recommend using butter.
What Bread Is Best For Homemade Croutons
These crunchy, flavorful air fryer croutons are amazing additions that can elevate any dish with their satisfying texture and robust taste. But what bread is best for making these delectable bites? Let’s find out!
- French Baguette: When it comes to croutons, the French baguette reigns supreme. Its crusty exterior and soft interior make it perfect for transforming into crispy cubes of goodness. The baguette’s neutral flavor allows it to absorb various seasonings and spices without overpowering the overall taste.
- Sourdough: If you’re a fan of tangy flavors, sourdough is an excellent choice for making croutons. Its distinct taste adds depth to any salad or soup while maintaining its crunchiness after baking. Additionally, sourdough crumbs can create a delightful texture contrast when sprinkled on top of creamy dishes.
- Whole Wheat: For those seeking a healthier alternative, whole wheat bread is an excellent option for homemade croutons. Packed with fiber and nutrients, this bread adds nuttiness and complexity to your salads or soups while still providing that satisfying crunch.
- Multigrain: Similar to whole wheat bread, multigrain offers additional nutritional benefits due to its combination of different grains and seeds like flaxseeds, sesame seeds, or oats. This variety not only enhances the flavor profile but also provides added textures in each bite.
- Rye Bread: If you’re looking for a bolder flavor profile in your recipe this is also a great option. Rye bread has a unique and hearty taste that will compliment salads and hearty meaty soups.
How To Store Left Over Croutons
But what if you have made more than required? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with some simple and effective tips on how to store leftover air fryer croutons to maintain their freshness and flavor. Let’s dive in!
- Cool Completely:
Before storing your leftover air fryer croutons, it is essential to let them cool down completely. This helps prevent moisture buildup inside the container and keeps the croutons from becoming soggy. - Choose an Airtight Container:
Transfer your cooled croutons into an airtight container that is suitable for storage purposes. Mason jars or food-grade plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well for this purpose, as they help maintain the crispiness of the croutons while keeping them fresh for longer periods. - Keep Away From Moisture:
To ensure your air fryer croutons remain crisp and dry, keep them away from any sources of moisture such as steamy kitchens or near sinks. Moisture can cause them to become soft and lose their desirable texture. - Avoid Direct Sunlight:
Exposure to sunlight can lead to staleness in any baked goods, including air fryer croutons. Store your container in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight.
Other Uses For These Crunchy Croutons
Crunchy croutons are not just meant for salads or soups. These versatile little bites can be used in various other delicious ways that will elevate your meals to a whole new level. Here are some inventive ideas for using crunchy croutons:
- Bruschetta: Instead of using plain bread slices, top your bruschetta with crunchy croutons. Spread a layer of cream cheese or goat cheese on each crouton, then add diced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delightful twist.
- Crispy Chicken Topping: Give your chicken dishes an extra crunch by sprinkling crushed crunchy croutons over baked or fried chicken breasts. The crumbled texture adds an appetizing element and enhances the overall flavor.
- Stuffing: Make a unique stuffing recipe by incorporating crunchy croutons into the mix. Sauté onions, celery, garlic, and herbs in butter until softened; then toss in crushed croutons with vegetable or chicken broth until moistened. Bake it separately or stuff it into poultry like turkey or chicken for a delectable side dish.
- Casserole Topping: Add crunch and flavor to casseroles by scattering crispy croutons on top before baking them in the oven. Whether it’s macaroni and cheese, green bean casserole, or tuna noodle casserole, this simple addition will make every bite more enjoyable. I have to confess that this is one of my favorite uses for croutons made in the air fryer.
- Pasta Salad Mix-in: Traditional pasta salads can benefit from the inclusion of crunchy croutons as well! Add them to the top of your favorite pasta salad as an added crunch and burst of flavor.
Air Fryer Croutons
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Serrated Knife
- 1 Medium Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 Slices of French Bread or Sourdough Bread
- 3 Tablespoons Melted Butter or Avocado Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Parsley Flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Salt
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
- In a microwave safe bowl gently melt the butter. If the butter is cold this can take up to 30 seconds depending on the power of your microwave. Set the butter aside and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Take the bread and cut it into bite sized pieces and place into a medium sized mixing bowl,Add the spices and seasonings to the bowl and toss with the bread crumbs. Once the seasonings appear to be evenly coating the bread pour the butter over the bread. Do this while stirring in order to ensure that all of the bread is covered with the butter.
- If you are using an air fryer liner place it into the air fryer basket then add your croutons. If you are not using an air fryer liner then use some avocado oil spray to coat the basket. This is to keep the croutons from sticking, then add the croutons.Place the basket with the croutons into the air fryer and cook for 2 minutes. Open the air fryer and give the basket a shake to move the croutons around. If you are happy with how crispy the croutons are then go ahead and remove them. If you want them crispier then place the basket back into the air fryer and cook another 2 minutes.Remove the croutons from the air fryer and place back onto the cutting board to allow them to cool.Add the croutons to your favorite salad or soup and enjoy!
Leave a comment