Homemade breadcrumbs are easy to make and can be used in various recipes. I make mine from scratch with old bread. Breadcrumbs add a delicious layer of flavor and texture as a crunchy topping to pasta or mix-in for meatballs and casseroles.
How to make homemade bread crumbs
Blender or food processor. To make them, start by cutting some stale white bread into cubes, then pulse them in a food processor or blender until they form crumbs. I have a Vitamix blender that has a special container for dry ingredients. It is not necessary, but nice to have.
Rolling pin. You can also put the cubes in a plastic bag and roll them with a rolling pin until they form crumbs.
Grater box. Place the slice of bread in a box grater and use the coarse side to grate the bread into crumbs.
Best type of bread for breadcrumbs
The best bread for breadcrumbs is plain, dry bread such as white, French bread, wheat, or Italian. Avoid using sweetened or flavored bread, as this can alter the flavor of the breadcrumbs.
You can also use homemade bread, sourdough bread, or gluten-free.
how to store homemade bread crumbs
Homemade bread crumbs can be stored in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you plan to store them longer than that, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 6 months.
How to make baked bread crumbs?
Once the crumbs are ready, spread them out in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until they are lightly toasted. Let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Toasted bread crumbs over the stove
To make stove-toasted bread crumbs, heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil or butter, add the breadcrumbs, and toast until golden brown and crunchy, stirring often. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
How to flavor bread crumbs
- Italian seasoning. Italian seasoning is my favorite way to flavor bread crumbs; there is something about the basil and oregano combination that makes me want to eat everything. Add a teaspoon of salt and dried herbs to two cups of bread crumbs.
- Garlic. Add a teaspoon of ground garlic and kosher salt to two cups of bread crumbs.
- Fresh herbs. I love to toast my bread crumbs and finish them with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs. I use thyme, basil, and parsley, but any combination will work.
Frequently asked questions
What is panko? Panko is a type of bread crumb used in Japanese cooking. Unlike traditional bread crumbs, panko has a light, airy texture and is made from bread without crusts, creating larger, coarser crumbs.
How to use Panko: Panko is frequently used in fried dishes, adding a crunchy texture to the outside of the food.
How to make bread crumbs without a food processor? Use a rolling pin or a box grater.
Are bread crumbs vegan? Bread crumbs may or may not be vegan, depending on the ingredients used to make them. In the most basic version, bread crumbs are simply crushed dry bread, and if that bread is vegan (made without animal-derived ingredients such as milk, eggs, or butter), then the bread crumbs will also be vegan.
However, some types of bread crumbs may contain animal-derived ingredients, such as lactose or whey. In addition, some varieties may include spices and seasonings that may also contain non-vegan ingredients.
Therefore, if you are looking for a vegan option, it’s best to check the ingredient label or make your own bread crumbs at home using vegan bread. There are also brands that offer specifically vegan options.
Recipes that use breadcrumbs
- Spaghetti and meatballs
- Lentil Meatloaf
- Finish any roasted vegetables like green beans, Brussels sprouts, etc.
How to make bread crumbs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 cups stale white bread
Instructions
- Blender or food processor. To make them, start by cutting some stale white bread into cubes, then pulse them in a food processor or blender until they form crumbs. I have a Vitamix blender that has a special container for dry ingredients. It is not necessary, but nice to have.
- Rolling pin. You can also put the cubes in a plastic bag and roll them with a rolling pin until they form crumbs.
- Grater box. Place the slice of bread in a box grater and use the coarse side to grate the bread into crumbs.
Notes
Nutrition
information
Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
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