Cheesy Herb Croutons

Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the Bread: Take the stale bread slices and cut them into bite-sized cubes. If the bread is particularly hard, you might want to let it sit out a bit longer to dry out further, or toast it lightly to achieve the desired texture.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
Beat the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them until they are well combined.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the salt, black pepper, chopped chives, and chopped parsley. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Incorporate Milk: Add the milk to the egg mixture and stir until everything is combined.
Step 3: Coat the Bread
Combine Bread and Egg Mixture: Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to let the bread absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Croutons
Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil and a small piece of butter over medium heat. The butter will add flavor and help the croutons brown nicely.
Add the Bread Mixture: Once the oil is hot, add the coated bread cubes to the skillet. Spread them out evenly, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook Until Golden: Cook the croutons for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. The goal is to achieve a crispy texture.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Add Cheese: Once the croutons are golden and crispy, sprinkle the grated cheese over them.
Cover to Melt: To help the cheese melt evenly, cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes. This will trap the heat and steam, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
Final Touches: Once the cheese is melted, remove the croutons from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Enjoy: These cheesy croutons can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for salads, soups, or pasta dishes.
Cooking Tips
Use Any Bread: While stale bread works best, you can use fresh bread as well. Just be mindful that it may not crisp up as much.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme to customize the flavor of your croutons.
Cheese Choices: Try different cheeses for various flavor profiles; a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella is particularly delicious.
Avoid Soggy Croutons: Make sure the bread is well-coated but not overly saturated with the egg mixture to prevent sogginess.
Storage
Short-term Storage: Store any leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may lose some crispness over time.
Long-term Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the croutons. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, assuming 4 servings)
Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but be aware that it may not get as crispy as stale bread. Lightly toasting the fresh bread before adding the egg mixture can help.

2. What kind of cheese works best?
Any cheese that melts well can be used, but mozzarella and cheddar are excellent choices. Feel free to mix different cheeses for more flavor.

3. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, vegetables, or spices to the egg mixture for added flavor and texture.

4. How do I prevent croutons from becoming soggy?
Ensure that the bread is well-coated but not overly wet from the egg mixture. Cooking them on medium heat will help them become crispy without burning.

5. Can these croutons be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread and egg mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving for maximum freshness and crunchiness.

Conclusion
These Cheesy Herb Croutons are a simple yet delicious way to elevate your meals while reducing food waste. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time. Perfect for snacking or as a crunchy topping, these croutons are sure to please both family and friends. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and cheesy goodness, and feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make this recipe your own!