Air Fryer Croutons

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You can stop scrolling. These Air Fryer Croutons are crisp on the outside, light in the center, and perfectly seasoned so they actually add something to your salad instead of just sitting there. I focused on cube size, oil balance, and timing so every bite turns golden without burning. Plus, the flavor is clean and classic, which means they work with everything you’re already making.

 

Ingredient Notes + Variations

This recipe keeps the ingredient list short and intentional. Each one pulls its weight, giving you crunchy air fried croutons with real flavor and zero heaviness.

• Day-old bread– Slightly dry bread crisps faster and more evenly. Sourdough, French bread, or a bakery loaf all work great.
• Olive oil– Just enough to coat without soaking. This helps the croutons brown instead of turning greasy.
• Garlic powder– Adds mellow garlic flavor that doesn’t scorch in the air fryer.
• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning– Oregano keeps things simple. Italian seasoning adds a little extra personality.
• Salt + black pepper– Season confidently. Croutons should taste good on their own.

How to Make Air Fried Croutons

This is one of those recipes that feels almost too easy. A quick toss, a short air fry, and you’re done.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Heat the air fryer to 375° F. Cut the bread into even 1-inch cubes so everything cooks at the same pace.

Step 2: Season

Toss the bread with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper until every cube is coated.

Step 3: Air Fry

Arrange the cubes in a single layer. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crisp.

Step 4: Cool

Let the croutons cool completely. This locks in that crunch.

Tips for Success

• Cut the bread evenly so nothing overcooks.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Airflow is your friend.
• Shake halfway through for consistent browning.
• Let them cool fully before storing. They crisp up even more as they cool.

What to Serve with Air Fried Croutons

• Caesar Salad or Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad with Chicken – The classic pairing. These croutons hold up to creamy dressing.
• Tomato Basil Soup – Crunchy cubes plus warm soup is always a good idea.
• Creamy Potato Soup – Adds contrast without feeling heavy.
• Baby Greens Salad with Bacon – Simple, fresh, and balanced.
• These would also be a perfect base for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Stuffing Recipe!

Once you make air fried croutons at home, the store-bought ones stop being tempting. They’re fast, flavorful, and exactly how croutons should be. The printable recipe card is below. Have a great day, friends!

Variations

• Use parmesan and Italian seasoning for a cheesy twist.
• Swap olive oil for garlic-infused oil.
• Add smoked paprika for subtle warmth.
• Use gluten-free bread if needed.

FAQ

More Recipes to Try

• Overnight Breakfast Casserole
• Baked Salmon with Garlic Parmesan Bread Crumbs
• Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic Bread
• Homemade Crackers
• Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.