Today, I’m excited to share a delicious and practical recipe that breathes new life into old, stale hamburger buns. Instead of tossing them out, why not turn them into crunchy, flavor-packed croutons? They’re perfect for salads, soups, or just snacking. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Old Hamburger Bun Croutons
These croutons are incredibly easy to make and can be seasoned to your liking. Whether you prefer a garlic herb flavor or a simple buttery crunch, you can customize them to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 old hamburger buns (or any leftover bread)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Begin by cutting the old hamburger buns into bite-sized cubes. The size can vary based on your preference, but about 1-inch squares work well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil (or melted butter) with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Feel free to add some grated Parmesan cheese if you want an extra kick of flavor.
- Add the bread cubes to the oil mixture. Gently toss until all the cubes are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they aren’t too crowded, as this helps them crisp up nicely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to toss them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool completely. They will continue to harden as they cool.
- Store your homemade croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
And there you have it! Crunchy, flavorful croutons made from leftover hamburger buns. These croutons are a fantastic way to reduce waste while enhancing your meals with a delightful crunch. Enjoy them on a fresh salad or simply as a tasty snack!