Air Fryer Sourdough Croutons

Elevate your salads and soups with these homemade Air Fryer Sourdough Croutons. By using sourdough bread, you get a unique tangy flavor and a robust crunch that stands up perfectly against dressings and hot broths. This quick recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a gourmet topping in less than 20 minutes.

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Sourdough is particularly well-suited for croutons because its dense crumb holds onto the garlic-infused olive oil without becoming overly greasy. As the hot air circulates in the air fryer, the edges of the bread cubes caramelize, resulting in a satisfying snap with every bite.

Ingredients

• Bread: 4 cups (about 200 g) sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (preferably day-old)
• Oil: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Herbs & Spices: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, or a blend), ½ tsp sea salt, ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Mount paper towels nearby for quick cleanup of spills, grease, and messes while cooking and prepping meals.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Add the sourdough cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Step 4

Arrange the bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 5

Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time, until the croutons are golden brown and crisp.

Step 6

Transfer the croutons to a bowl and toss with fresh parsley if desired. Allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Preheating the air fryer ensures that the croutons start crisping immediately, which helps prevent the bread from absorbing too much oil. If you prefer a more uniform garlic flavor without pieces of minced garlic, you can substitute the fresh garlic with half a teaspoon of garlic powder.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For an extra savory kick, sprinkle two tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the bread cubes just before air frying. You can also customize the herb profile by using smoked paprika for a barbecue vibe or dried rosemary and lemon zest for a bright, Mediterranean twist.

Serviervorschläge

These croutons are the perfect crunchy finish for a classic Caesar salad, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or even a hearty beef stew. They are so flavorful that they can also be enjoyed as a simple, crunchy snack on their own.

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Once you see how easy it is to make your own sourdough croutons at home, you will never go back to the boxed variety. They add a professional, artisanal touch to any meal with very little effort.

Track cooking times accurately for baking, boiling, roasting, and multitasking recipes without overcooking.

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Kitchen Q&A

→ How do I make sourdough cubes crispy?

Coat the bread cubes evenly with olive oil and seasonings, then air fry at 375°F until golden and crisp, shaking the basket halfway through.

→ Can I use other bread types instead of sourdough?

Yes, day-old bread like baguette or whole grain can be used, but sourdough offers a tangy flavor that enhances the crunch.

→ What herbs work best for seasoning croutons?

Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme create a fragrant, balanced flavor that complements garlic well.

→ How long can I store the croutons?

Store cooled croutons in an airtight container for up to one week to retain their crunch.

→ Can I add cheese before air frying?

Sprinkling grated Parmesan on the bread cubes before air frying adds a rich, savory flavor and extra crispiness.