Bacon and Garlic Croutons

Here’s a savory, crispy recipe for Bacon and Garlic Croutons, perfect for soups, salads, or snacking. I have seen these served with Italian soups such as minestrone but if you make enough they can be added to anything. Clearly not for vegans or vegetarians because this is also about using odds and sods of bacon or indeed any other type of frying meat.

Bacon and Garlic Croutons Recipe

Time Overview

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15–20 minutes

• Total time: ~30 minutes

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan

• Knife and cutting board

• Mixing bowl

• Slotted spoon or tongs

• Paper towels

• Baking sheet (optional, for oven method)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients (Makes ~2 cups)

• 3 cups day-old bread, cubed (e.g., baguette, sourdough)

• 3 strips bacon

• 2–3 tbsp bacon fat (from cooking)

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated

• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed to supplement fat)

• Pinch of salt

• Optional: black pepper, parsley, or Parmesan

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Bread
   Cut the bread into roughly 1/2-inch cubes and set aside in a mixing bowl.

2. Cook the Bacon
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and place on paper towels to drain. Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of the rendered fat.

3. Flavor the Fat
   Add minced garlic to the hot bacon fat and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Remove from heat.

4. Toss the Croutons
   Drizzle the garlic-bacon fat over the bread cubes, tossing to coat evenly. Add olive oil if more fat is needed. Season lightly with salt and optional pepper.

5. Toast the Croutons
   Return the cubes to the skillet (wipe if needed) or use a baking sheet:

   • Skillet method: Toast on medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and crisp (~8–10 minutes).

   • Oven method: Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Finish and Serve
   Crumble cooked bacon and toss with the croutons. Let cool. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or Parmesan.

Nutrition Information (Per 1/4 cup serving)

(Approximate values; varies by bread type)

• Calories: 120 kcal

• Protein: 3 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Carbohydrates: 11 g

• Sugars: <1 g

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sodium: 180 mg