Garnish, Baked Good | Vegetarian

Croutons

Triticum aestivum (wheat) Allergens: Wheat, Gluten, Soy, Milk
croutons

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae (wheat)
  • Primary Cuisine European, Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Wheat Flour

The Forktionary Angle

"The word "crouton" comes from the French "croûton," a diminutive of "croûte," meaning crust. Historically, they were a way to repurpose stale bread."

Definition

Small pieces of re-baked bread, typically seasoned and often used to add crunch to salads or soups.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, savory, garlicky, sometimes buttery
TextureCrunchy, brittle
AromaBaked bread, toasted, savory spices
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Homemade Method

Cube stale bread, toss with oil/seasonings, bake/fry

Primary Use

Salad & soup garnish

Shelf Life (store-bought, unopened)

3-6 months

Nutrition Facts

Per 14g (1/2 cup)
Calories400 kcal
Total Fat15 g
Saturated Fat3 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein12 g
Total Carbohydrate50 g
Dietary Fiber3 g
Total Sugars5 g
Calcium50 mg
Iron2 mg
Potassium150 mg

Chef’s Secret

For gourmet croutons, use day-old artisanal bread, toss with olive oil and fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme), and bake until golden and crisp.

Substitutions

Best Match

Toasted Bread Cubes (homemade)

1:1

Easy to make, allows customization of seasoning and bread type.

Toasted Nuts/Seeds (e.g., pecans, sunflower seeds)

1:1 (by volume)

Adds crunch and healthy fats; gluten-free alternative.

Crispy Fried Onions

1:1 (by volume)

Provides savory crunch, but with a distinct onion flavor.

Crumbled Crackers

1:1

Quick crunch option, but flavor and texture can vary greatly.

Buying Guide

Check for seasoning and fat content. Avoid overly brittle or stale croutons. Consider whole grain options for more fiber.

Flavor Pairings

Salads (Caesar) soups (tomato onion) stews panzanella as a snack.

Recipes Using Croutons

Equipment Side Dishes Main Dish Time To Make

How I Got My Family To Eat Spinach Spinach Casserole

Conquer picky eaters with this unbelievably delicious spinach casserole! Even spinach-haters will devour this creamy, cheesy bake. Inherited from my mother-in-law (who also makes it with broccoli!), this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or a weeknight dinner. Hot or cold, it's the perfect comfort food. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Low Saturated Fat Low Saturated Fat Soups Stews Low Fat

Thicker Than Pea Soup Pea Soup

This unbelievably creamy and satisfying pea soup is a vegetarian dream! Forget meat – this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and filling meal. Bursting with fresh pea flavor, its thick, luscious texture is perfect for dipping crusty bread. Easy to make and unbelievably flavorful, this recipe is a new family favorite.

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Main Ingredient Lettuces 15 Minutes Or Less Easy

Olive Garden Salad And Dressing Recipe

Recreate the magic of Olive Garden's famous salad at home! This recipe delivers an authentic, restaurant-quality taste experience with a simple, step-by-step guide. Make enough creamy Italian dressing to perfectly coat a large bowl of fresh greens, crisp vegetables, and zesty toppings. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal!

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Course Time To Make North American 4 Hours Or Less

30 Cloves Of Garlic And Bean Soup

This hearty and aromatic 30-Cloves-of-Garlic Bean Soup recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. While the abundance of garlic might seem intimidating, it simmers to perfection, creating a rich, savory broth without overpowering the other flavors. The secret? Letting it sit for a day or two to allow the flavors to meld. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable – feel free to adjust ingredient quantities to your liking. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Course Time To Make Dietary For 1 Or 2

Amazing French Onion Soup

Indulge in the rich, savory depths of our Amazing French Onion Soup! This classic French recipe is surprisingly inexpensive and easy to make, delivering a gourmet experience without the gourmet price tag. Perfectly caramelized onions create a deeply flavorful broth, enhanced by crispy croutons and melted provolone cheese. Skip the bread and go straight for the crouton bliss – you can even add extra for a truly decadent treat! This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated dinner party.

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Chicken Breasts Preparation Main Dish Course

Apple Curry Chicken

This Apple Curry Chicken Bake is a delightful twist on classic chicken recipes! Tender chicken breasts are topped with a sweet and savory apple, raisin, and curry-spiced topping, then baked to perfection. Inspired by a cooking class, this recipe is incredibly flavorful and easy to adapt to your preferred spices and ingredients. A perfect weeknight meal or impressive dinner party dish!

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Time To Make Easy Time To Make Dinner Party

Avocado Caesar Pasta Salad

Creamy avocado Caesar dressing coats perfectly cooked pasta and crisp romaine lettuce in this vibrant and refreshing pasta salad. A crowd-pleaser any time of year, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavor! Get ready for rave reviews!

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Dietary Low Carb Dietary 3 Steps Or Less

B L T Lettuce Salad

This B L T Lettuce Salad isn't your average salad! A vibrant blend of crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce gets a serious flavor upgrade with a powerful garlic dressing. The bold garlic flavor shines through, making this a truly unforgettable salad perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying side dish. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Meat Pork Soups Stews Low Carb

Bacon Cheddar Potato Soup

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Bacon Cheddar Potato Soup! This easy-to-make recipe delivers a thick, satisfying bowl of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. The rich cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes create a flavor explosion that's unbelievably delicious. Serve with crusty French bread for a complete meal. Make ahead and reheat for effortless weeknight dinners!

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15 Minutes Or Less Food Processor Blender Served Cold Bacon

Bacon Lettuce Tomato Layered Salad

This easy Bacon Lettuce Tomato Layered Salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light dinner! Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and savory bacon are layered to perfection in a creamy basil dressing, then chilled for maximum flavor. No-fuss assembly and minimal cleanup make this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Time To Make Eggs Dairy 30 Minutes Or Less Low In Something

Bacon Egg And Cheddar Cups Ww

Deliciously cheesy and satisfying, these Bacon, Egg & Cheddar Cups are a Weight Watchers-friendly breakfast or brunch option! Each mini-quiche packs a protein punch with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melty cheddar, all for only 3 points plus (based on the WW PointsPlus program). This quick and easy recipe is perfect for meal prep and busy mornings. Get ready for a guilt-free indulgence!

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Stove Top Time To Make Pork Course

Bacon Lettuce And Tomato Sandwich Soup

Reimagine your BLT as a creamy, comforting soup! Chef John Folse's classic recipe gets a gourmet twist. This savory delight features crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and aromatic herbs all simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch, this recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers a burst of flavor in every spoonful. Skip the mayo, and get ready for a taste sensation!

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Taste Mood Soups Stews Low In Something Time To Make

Best Cheesy Potato Soup Ever

This secret family recipe, passed down from my great aunt, is guaranteed to become your new favorite comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, one bowl of this hearty potato soup will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's as comforting as a warm hug.

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Equipment Poultry Broccoli American

Best Chicken Broccoli Casserole Ever

This incredibly creamy and cheesy chicken broccoli casserole is a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers amazing flavor. Inspired by a spontaneous dinner party, this casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Time To Make Preparation To Go 3 Steps Or Less

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

This vibrant Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or potluck! Inspired by a classic baked casserole, this refreshing twist combines perfectly cooked pasta (penne, rotini, farfalle, shells – or even tortellini!), tender roasted chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons. Using store-bought rotisserie chicken saves you time, letting you enjoy this delicious salad in just 10 minutes!

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Dietary Eggs Low In Something Easy

Frittata With Ham And Roasted Pepper

A delightful Frittata recipe inspired by Coup de Pouce (February 2008), perfect for a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired meal. This recipe features savory ham, sweet roasted peppers, and a creamy egg base, creating a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet stunning frittata!

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