Are you tired of watching leftover bread go to waste? Do you wish there was a way to breathe new life into stale loaves and turn them into something deliciously creative? You’re in luck! As a cook who values resourcefulness and creativity, you’ll love these 18 mouthwatering recipes that transform leftover bread into incredible dishes.
From crunchy croutons to sweet bread puddings, savory strata to crispy breadcrumbs, the possibilities are endless. And with this article, you’ll discover new ways to repurpose your old bread and make it shine in a variety of recipes that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends.
Stay tuned for a culinary journey that will inspire you to think outside the box (or loaf) when it comes to using up leftover bread!
Garlic Parmesan Bread Croutons
Add a flavorful twist to your favorite salads with these easy-to-make Garlic Parmesan Bread Croutons. Perfect for topping mixed greens, soups, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together bread cubes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bread Pudding with Vanilla Custard
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this bread pudding is a masterclass in comfort food. Moist, flavorful bread is infused with sweet vanilla custard, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract. Pour over bread mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. While the pudding bakes, prepare the custard by whisking heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar in a separate bowl. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Remove pudding from oven and pour warm vanilla custard over the top. Serve warm, topped with additional custard if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Toast Casserole with Berries
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and satisfying casserole, featuring the perfect combination of crispy French toast, juicy berries, and creamy vanilla pudding. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Challah bread (12 slices), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour half of the French toast mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with berries, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining French toast mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm, topped with additional berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Bread and Cheese Strata
This strata recipe is a twist on the classic bread pudding, featuring savory flavors and textures that make it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of crispy bread, melted cheese, and fresh herbs creates a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes in an even layer.
4. Sprinkle with half of the cheese, half of the parsley, and all of the onion mixture.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of bread on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crunchy Breadcrumb-Coated Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this simple yet satisfying recipe. Crunchy breadcrumb coating adds a delightful texture to these juicy chicken strips.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each chicken strip into beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Panzanella Salad with Tomatoes and Basil
This Italian-inspired salad is a perfect representation of summer’s bounty, featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and crusty bread. With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, croutons, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the mixture; toss gently to combine.
3. Stir in chopped basil.
4. Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Homemade Breadcrumbs for Baked Dishes
Elevate your baked goods with the simplicity of homemade breadcrumbs! This recipe produces a flavorful and textured topping perfect for adding crunch to casseroles, mac and cheese, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: herbs and spices of your choice (e.g., dried oregano, thyme, or garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a single layer on a baking sheet, spread out the bread cubes.
3. Drizzle with a pinch of salt; toss gently to distribute.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are lightly toasted and fragrant.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. If desired, add herbs and spices during cooling process; mix well.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bread and Butter Pudding with Raisins
This classic British dessert is a perfect way to use up stale bread and is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet buttery flavors, soft raisins, and crumbly bread is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Add vanilla extract and raisins; mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or custard if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Bread and Egg Breakfast Bake
Start your day with a warm, cheesy breakfast bake filled with scrambled eggs, crispy bread, and melted mozzarella cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12 inches long), cubed
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bread cubes and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the toasted bread in the bottom. Top with the scrambled eggs, then sprinkle with the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining bread on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful bruschetta recipe featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Perfect for a quick and easy gathering or as a light snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted bread with tomato mixture, mozzarella cheese, and a pinch of salt.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bread Dumplings in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Cozy up with this comforting dish, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. Soft bread dumplings simmered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 3/4 cup whole milk
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, melted butter, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add milk, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares or strips.
4. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until tender.
5. Add heavy cream to the skillet; bring to a simmer. Gently add bread dumplings, cooking for 10-12 minutes or until puffed up.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed French Toast with Cream Cheese
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy twist on classic French toast. Thick slices of bread are filled with a tangy cream cheese mixture and cooked to a golden brown perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with the cream cheese mixture (softened cream cheese mixed with sugar and vanilla extract).
3. Dip the cream cheese-side of each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Serve warm, sprinkled with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per serving
Bread and Sausage Stuffing with Herbs
This savory stuffing is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a standalone side dish. The combination of crispy bread, flavorful sausage, and fragrant herbs will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread, sausage mixture, chicken broth, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crouton-Topped Creamy Tomato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Crouton-Topped Creamy Tomato Soup!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 croutons (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and top each bowl with croutons.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bread Pizza with Mozzarella and Veggies
Transform a simple loaf of bread into a delicious pizza-inspired snack with melted mozzarella cheese, fresh veggies, and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian-style bread (about 12 inches long)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, mixed vegetables, olive oil, and oregano.
4. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the cheese-vegetable mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bread Pakora with Spicy Chutney
A twist on traditional Indian snack, Bread Pakora is a crispy and flavorful treat that combines soft bread with spicy and tangy flavors. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bread slices (white or whole wheat)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Spicy Chutney (recipe below)
Spicy Chutney:
– 1 cup green chilies
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a bowl, mix together besan, baking soda, cumin seeds, garam masala powder, and salt.
3. Dip each bread cube into the mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the bread pakoras until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with Spicy Chutney for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Breadcrumb-Crusted Baked Fish Fillets
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe yields a crispy breadcrumb crust on tender fish fillets, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
4. Coat each fish fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Bread Fritters with Cinnamon Sugar
Start your day off right with these sweet and indulgent bread fritters, drizzled in a crispy cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of stale bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and eggs. Pour over bread mixture; stir until well combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop fritter mixture into oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Toss warm fritters in cinnamon sugar mixture; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total (frying time: 4-5 minutes per batch)
Summary
Get creative with your leftover bread and turn it into delicious dishes! This article presents 18 innovative recipes that transform stale bread into tasty treats. From savory to sweet, these ideas include garlic parmesan bread croutons, bread pudding with vanilla custard, crunchy breadcrumb-coated chicken tenders, and more. Discover how to make homemade breadcrumbs for baked dishes, or use your leftover bread to create a bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and herbs. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner inspiration, this collection of recipes is sure to delight!
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