Homemade Breadcrumbs

Learn how to make homemade breadcrumbs quickly and easily with this step-by-step guide. This recipe shows you how to use leftover bread to create flavorful Italian-style breadcrumbs or plain crumbs for all your cooking needs. Perfect for coating chicken or fish, binding meatballs, or adding crunch to casseroles, these breadcrumbs are fresher and tastier than store-bought options. Customize with herbs like oregano or garlic powder for a unique touch, and enjoy a cost-effective, versatile ingredient for your favorite recipes. Store at room temperature or freeze for long-term use!

Ingredients

• 4 cups bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• ½ teaspoon oregano (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare Bread: Slice bread into 1-inch cubes to create about 4 cups.
3. Grind Bread: Place the bread cubes in a food processor and pulse until the desired crumb texture is achieved. (See Notes for alternatives if you don’t have a food processor.)
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the bread crumbs in a single, even layer on 1-2 baking sheets to ensure even baking.
5. Bake: Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven, toss the crumbs, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Optional Refinement: For finer crumbs, return the baked crumbs to the food processor and pulse again until desired consistency is reached.
7. Season: If desired, add Italian seasoning after baking. Use about 1½ teaspoons of seasoning for every cup of breadcrumbs. (See Notes for a seasoning recipe.)
8. Store: Transfer the breadcrumbs to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 3 months.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cost-Effective: Save money by turning leftover bread into homemade breadcrumbs.
• Customizable: Adjust the texture and seasonings to suit your cooking needs.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Homemade breadcrumbs have a fresher taste compared to store-bought options.
• Simple and Quick: With just a few steps, you can create breadcrumbs in under 30 minutes.

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Tips

• Bread Choice: Use stale bread for the best results. White, wheat, or sourdough bread all work well.
• Avoid Over-Baking: Watch the breadcrumbs closely to prevent burning. They should be lightly golden and crisp.
• Storage: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness. Label with the date if freezing.
• Food Processor Alternatives: Use a blender, box grater, or crush the bread manually with a rolling pin.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Seasoning Options: Add paprika, thyme, or rosemary for unique flavors.
• Panko Style: Use crustless bread for lighter, flakier breadcrumbs.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a suitable alternative.
• Unseasoned: Skip the seasonings for plain breadcrumbs, perfect for sweet recipes or neutral applications.

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FAQs

Can I use fresh bread for breadcrumbs?
Yes, but stale bread works best as it creates a drier, crispier texture.

How fine should breadcrumbs be?
It depends on your recipe! Use coarse crumbs for stuffing or casseroles and fine crumbs for breading.

Can I make breadcrumbs without an oven?
Yes! Use a skillet over low heat to dry the crumbs, stirring frequently until crisp.

How long do breadcrumbs last?
Stored in an airtight container, breadcrumbs last up to 1 month at room temperature or 3 months in the freezer.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Breading: Perfect for coating chicken, fish, or vegetables.
• Binding Agent: Use in meatballs, meatloaf, or veggie patties.
• Topping: Sprinkle over casseroles or pasta dishes for added crunch.
• Soup Thickener: Stir into soups for extra texture and flavor.

Enjoy the versatility of homemade breadcrumbs in your favorite recipes!