Add them in any recipe that calls for breadcrumbs, including gratins, casseroles, veggie burgers, “meatloaf,” or meatballs. Let us show you how to make breadcrumbs!
Best Type of Bread for Breadcrumbs
You can use almost any type of bread to make breadcrumbs, but for versatility, it’s best to use one that’s neutral in flavor. In our testing, we found white bread (vs. whole grain or sourdough) to create a more classic and neutral taste. In a pinch, use any bread you have around as long as it’s not sweet like cinnamon raisin bread (unless you’re putting breadcrumbs on ice cream — ooh, recipe idea noted!). Fresh or stale bread? The older the bread, the better because drier bread makes breadcrumbs in less time. If using fresher bread, you’ll just need to bake it longer to dry it out. Can you use frozen bread? Definitely! Defrost it at room temperature or in the microwave, then press out any extra moisture using a clean dish towel or paper towel before baking it.
How to Make Breadcrumbs
Just two required steps, and one optional:
Bread to Breadcrumbs Ratio
1 slice bread = 1 cup cubed bread = 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Oil vs. Oil-Free
We tested using oil vs. no oil and found breadcrumbs made with oil were slightly more flavorful, but we preferred the ease, versatility, and simplicity of the ones without oil. The ones without oil are also more similar to what you’d get at the store, making them easy to swap 1:1 in recipes. Plus, they keep longer and you won’t have to worry about the oil becoming rancid.
Should You Use the Crust?
It depends! If your bread has a tougher crust (like a rustic sourdough), remove it. Otherwise, include the crust for best flavor.
How to Make Italian Breadcrumbs
For Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, simply add dried Italian herbs (basil + oregano), garlic powder, and salt. They’re delicious in Italian-inspired recipes, including our Simple Chickpea Bolognese, Easy Pizza Burgers, Crispy Gluten-Free Eggplant Parmesan, and Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Meatballs.
What are Panko Breadcrumbs?
Panko is the Japanese word for breadcrumbs. Most panko breadcrumbs are made from crust-free bread and have a unique, coarse texture that’s good for breading and frying.
How to Store Breadcrumbs
As long as you dry out the bread well, you can store breadcrumbs in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1 week. To keep them fresh for longer than that, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator or (better yet!) the freezer. In the freezer, they’ll keep for several months. Bonus: No need to defrost them before using. We hope this guide is helpful! It makes breadcrumbs that are:CrispySavoryQuick & easyVersatile& SO much better than store-bought!
How to Use Breadcrumbs
They’re great anytime you want to create a crispy topping or coating or to soak up moisture in a dish. You can add them to pasta, soup, stuffing, gratins, casseroles, veggie burgers, “meatloaf” or meatballs, and more. If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo @minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
