Transform humble day-old bread into a golden, garlicky delight with this easy Fried Bread Crumbs recipe. Perfectly crisped in a luscious blend of olive oil and butter, these rustic bread crumbs are elevated with finely minced garlic, a hint of salt and pepper, vibrant fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan for a savory finish. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a versatile topping that adds irresistible texture and flavor to pasta, salads, soups, or roasted vegetables. With minimal effort and pantry staples, this budget-friendly recipe breathes new life into leftover bread while delivering gourmet results.
Cut the day-old bread into small pieces and process in a food processor until coarse crumbs form. Avoid over-processing to keep the texture rustic.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter, swirling to combine and melt completely.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the bread crumbs, making sure they are evenly coated in the oil and butter mixture.
Season the crumbs with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 7-8 minutes or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Optional: If using, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese while the bread crumbs are still warm to let it melt slightly.
Allow the fried bread crumbs to cool completely before using as a topping or storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Calories |
1413 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.1 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 39 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 3081 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 235.3 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.2 g | 47% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.7 g | ||
| Protein | 46.9 g | 94% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 224 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 611 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.