Plain and Seasoned Bread Crumbs
Learn how to make homemade seasoned bread crumbs using leftover bread! This easy guide includes step-by-step instructions plus three flavorful variations — Italian-style, Cajun-style, and Garlic Herb breadcrumbs — perfect for coating, topping, or adding crunch to any recipe.
Servings 1 cup
Calories 427kcal
Ingredients
- Several pieces of bread any variety
For Italian-style breadcrumbs:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Cajun-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Garlic Herb breadcrumbs:
- 2 teaspoons dried minced garlic
- 2 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Arrange the bread pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. If you have any thick pieces of bread, cut or tear them into smaller pieces for more even drying.
- Toasted the bread for 10-15 minutes, stirring or flipping the bread halfway through, until the bread is crunchy.
- Allow the bread to cool completely.
- Place the bread in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until the crumbs reach your desired consistency. The longer you process the bread crumbs, the finer the crumbs will be.
- To make seasoned breadcrumbs, add the corresponding ingredients above to one cup of plain bread crumbs.
Video
Notes
- Bread Type: Any kind of bread works — white, wheat, French, or even leftover hamburger or hot dog buns. Using a mix of different breads can add more depth of flavor.
- Texture Control: For fine breadcrumbs, process longer. For coarse crumbs (great for toppings), pulse just a few times.
- Toasting Tip: Make sure the bread is completely dry before processing. Moist bread can lead to soggy crumbs that won’t store well.
- Storage: Keep breadcrumbs in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Seasoning Freshness: Add herbs and spices only when ready to use to keep flavors bold and aromatic.
- Quick Trick: Toast breadcrumbs in a little butter or olive oil for an instant flavor boost before sprinkling over pasta, salads, or casseroles.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup | Calories: 427kcal | Carbohydrates: 77g | Protein: 14.4g | Fat: 5.7g | Saturated Fat: 1.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.1g | Cholesterol: 7.3mg | Sodium: 791mg | Potassium: 212mg | Fiber: 4.9g | Sugar: 6.7g | Calcium: 200mg | Iron: 5.2mg
