Homemade Bread Crumbs: Two Ways (Plain & Seasoned)
Don't bin that stale bread! Learn how to make bread crumbs – plain or seasoned – for meatloaf, chicken, or meatballs. Cheaper and tastier than shop-bought! The Cozy Cook way!

- From Stale to Stellar: Homemade Bread Crumbs Two Ways
- Homemade Bread Crumbs: Two Ways (Plain & Seasoned) Recipe Card
- Ingredients & Equipment
- From Stale to Stellar: Homemade Bread Crumbs Two Ways (Plain & Seasoned)
- Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
- Step-by-Step: From Stale to Scrumptious
- Pro Tips & Tricks from The Cozy Cook
- Seasoned Crumb Sensations and How To Make Italian Bread Crumbs
- Why Bother? Because Homemade Italian Bread Crumbs Rock!
- Recipe Notes: From Stale to Stellar
- Frequently Asked Questions
Right then, let's crack on and get this "How to Make Bread Crumbs" recipe outlined. Think of it as a proper "Bake Off" but for…breadcrumbs. Cheerio!
From Stale to Stellar: Homemade Bread Crumbs Two Ways
Fancy knowing how to make bread crumbs like a pro? don't bin that stale bread just yet! honestly, turning old bread into homemade bread crumbs is a game-changer.
It's like magic, isn’t it? from simple suppers to hearty dishes, homemade recipes to save money like this, add a touch of home-cooked goodness to any meal.
We’ll be diving into both a plain version and a seasoned bread crumbs recipe , perfect for meatloaf chicken or your next sunday roast.
A Humble Beginning
Did you know bread crumbs have been used for centuries? they pop up in all sorts of cuisines. in italian cooking, using stale bread creatively is like second nature.
So, get ready to channel your inner italian nonna! this recipe is a doddle. it's an easy recipe and takes under 35 minutes, making roughly 4-6 cups.
Perfect for jazzing up loads of meals.
Why Bother? The Perks of Homemade Bread Crumbs
Right, so why should you bother making your own? well, for starters, you know exactly what’s going in them. no dodgy no preservatives recipes here! plus, you can tailor the flavour to your heart's content.
It's also a great way to be thrifty and reduce food waste. perfect for a cozy night in or for cheap family dinners .
Honestly, better than store bought recipes every single time.
Ready to get started? Next up, we’ll get into the nitty-gritty: what you need to create some top-notch bread crumbs.
Alright, let's get this bread crumb party started! here’s the lowdown on what you'll need and how to make sure you're using the good stuff.
Honestly, how to make bread crumbs is simpler than boiling an egg. and the best part? it's a cracking way to use up bread that's past its prime.
Plus, you’ll avoid those nasties lurking in shop-bought versions. oh, and you save a few quid too! perfect for cheap family dinners .
Homemade Bread Crumbs: Two Ways (Plain & Seasoned) Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- Stale bread (any type, preferably crusty) – 1 pound (450g)
- Plain Bread Crumbs (from above) - 2 cups (about 180g)
- Dried Italian Herbs – 1 tablespoon (6g)
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon (3g)
- Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon (3g)
- Salt – ½ teaspoon (3g)
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon (1g)
🥄 Instructions:
- A. Making Plain Bread Crumbs (Oven Method): 1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). 2. Slice the bread into ½ inch thick slices if not already stale in slices. 3. Arrange bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. 4. Bake until bread is dry and crisp, turning halfway through. 5. Let cool completely. 6. Break the dried bread into smaller pieces. 7. Process in a food processor or blender until you reach desired crumb consistency. 8. Store in an airtight container.
- B. Making Plain Bread Crumbs (Skillet Method): 1. Slice the bread into ½ inch thick slices if not already stale in slices. 2. Break bread into smaller pieces. 3. Heat a large, dry skillet over medium-low heat. 4. Add a portion of bread pieces to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. 5. Toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crisp. 6. Let cool completely. 7. Process in a food processor or blender until you reach desired crumb consistency. 8. Store in an airtight container.
- C. Making Seasoned Bread Crumbs: 1. In a large bowl, combine the plain bread crumbs, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. 2. Stir well to ensure even distribution of spices. 3. Store in an airtight container.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's talk shopping list, shall we? We're keeping it real simple, promise.
Main Ingredients
Stale bread: 1 pound (450g) - Any kind works, but I reckon a crusty baguette or sourdough gives you the best homemade bread crumbs .
- Quality Check: Key is "stale," not moldy. We're aiming for dry, not a science experiment. You know?
Plain Bread Crumbs: 2 cups (about 180g)
Dried Italian Herbs: 1 tablespoon (6g)
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (3g)
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (3g)
Salt: ½ teaspoon (3g)
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1g)
When making Meatballs Meatloaf , Meatloaf Chicken , or even Chicken Stuffing Casserole , proper bread crumbs are key for texture.
Seasoning Notes
- Italian Herbs, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper. This combo is your baseline for amazing seasoned bread crumbs recipe . It works a treat!
- A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a cheeky kick.
- No Italian herbs? No worries! Use equal parts dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Sorted.
Equipment Needed
- Large Baking Sheet - for the oven method. A pizza pan would work too.
- Food Processor or Blender - Essential for blitzing the bread.
- Large bowl - For mixing the seasoning, like you're The Cozy Cook .
- Dry skillet - Just in case you’re going all “hob-only.”
You can even make your own bread crumbs with a rolling pin and a zip-top bag, if you're feeling really old-school. Think of it as a stress-reliever.
I remember the first time i tried to make homemade italian bread crumbs . my food processor nearly exploded! turns out, less is more when it comes to processing stale bread.
Just pulse it!
It's about better than store bought recipes . and it is really simple to how to make homemade bread crumbs . not only that, you're skipping all those questionable ingredients – no preservatives recipes , which is always a win.
This could make a great start for all your home made bread crumbs recipes .

Right then, let's crack on and get this "How to Make Bread Crumbs" recipe outlined. Think of it as a proper "Bake Off" but for…breadcrumbs. Cheerio!
From Stale to Stellar: Homemade Bread Crumbs Two Ways (Plain & Seasoned)
Oh my gosh, are you one of those people who bin stale bread? honestly, you're throwing away potential gold! this recipe shows you exactly how to make bread crumbs from that loaf that's gone a bit past it.
We're talking homemade bread crumbs that are way better than those shop-bought things. we'll cover both simple, plain crumbs and a jazzed-up seasoned bread crumbs recipe .
Perfect for everything from meatloaf chicken to a proper chicken stuffing casserole . it is a simple way to have homemade recipes to save money and reduce waste.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, get your stuff sorted. it's all about mise en place , you know? get your loaf ready and your food processor to hand.
Time-saving organization tips ? slice that bread before it's rock solid. trust me.
Step-by-Step: From Stale to Scrumptious
Here's how to make homemade bread crumbs , easy peasy.
- Preheat your oven to 300° F ( 150° C) .
- Slice stale bread (about 1/2 inch thick).
- Lay slices on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20- 30 minutes , flipping halfway, until properly dried and crisp.
- Let it cool completely.
- Break bread into chunks.
- Blitz in a food processor until you have desired homemade bread crumbs texture.
- Store in an airtight container.
Pro Tips & Tricks from The Cozy Cook
Want to know how to make your own bread crumbs like a pro? Here's a couple of nuggets of wisdom Cozy Cook style:
- Dry bread is key! If it's still soft, your crumbs will clump.
- Pulse, don't puree! You want crumbs, not flour.
- Better Than Store Bought Recipes ? Add a touch of your favourite italian spices.
Seasoned Crumb Sensations and How To Make Italian Bread Crumbs
Now, for a bit of flavour. for homemade italian bread crumbs , mix 2 cups of plain crumbs with 1 tbsp dried italian herbs, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
Boom! that makes for a cheap family dinners type of side dish and great for meatballs meatloaf
Why Bother? Because Homemade Italian Bread Crumbs Rock!
Honestly, how to make homemade bread crumbs is one of those skills that makes you feel proper clever. plus, you're using up leftovers, saving money, and avoiding all those weird no preservatives recipes in shop-bought stuff.
Give it a go! you'll never buy bread crumbs again.
Right then, let's crack on and get to the nitty-gritty of these Homemade Bread Crumbs . Think of it as a proper "Bake Off" for crumbs! Cheerio!
Recipe Notes: From Stale to Stellar
So, you've mastered how to make bread crumbs . now, let's chat about making the most of 'em. we'll cover serving, storing, and even a cheeky variation or two.
You know, all those bits that make a recipe truly yours .
Serving Suggestions: Plating and Presentation Ideas
Honestly, presentation matters. It's what transforms a simple meal into something special.
- Plating: For a Chicken Stuffing Casserole , sprinkle those golden Homemade Bread Crumbs on top just before serving. Gives it a professional, "The Cozy Cook " touch, innit?
- Sides: Think simple. A vibrant green salad balances a rich dish. Or a side of roasted veggies – carrots or broccoli – for that healthy dose.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine with Meatloaf Chicken , or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon. Keeps things light and bright.
Storage Tips: Keeping Those Crumbs Fresh
Right, let's talk storage. Nobody wants soggy crumbs!
- Refrigeration: Not usually needed for the dry bread crumbs, but if you used fresh garlic, best to refrigerate in an airtight container for a few days.
- Freezing: Absolutely! Pop those Homemade Bread Crumbs in a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw them before using.
- Reheating: No reheating needed! They're ready to go straight from the container. How great is that?
Variations: A Little Twist, A Lot of Flavor
Fancy shaking things up a bit? Here are a couple of ideas.
- Dietary Adaptations: Need a gluten-free version? Easy peasy. Just use gluten-free bread. Works a treat! You can try Homemade Bread Crumbs with almond flour bread.
- Seasonal Swaps: In summer, add dried basil or oregano. In winter, maybe a pinch of warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Blimey! Spice It Up!: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to the seasoned bread crumbs.
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of Goodness
It is a No Preservatives Recipes idea.
- Simplified Info: A ¼ cup serving is roughly 50 calories. But hey, it's mostly carbs. So don't go overboard.
- Key Benefits: Fiber, innit? Plus, it's a great way to use up stale bread. Reduces waste and saves money! Perfect for Cheap Family Dinners .
Right, there you have it. how to make italian bread crumbs with these tasty bread crumbs recipe is a breeze.
Don't be afraid to experiment and have some fun. after all, that's what cooking is all about, isn't it? now go on, make your own bread crumbs and enjoy creating deliciousness in the kitchen.
It's always better than store bought recipes , trust me!. that´s the secret, homemade recipes to save money
You'll find a proper tasty seasoned bread crumbs recipe to coat meatballs meatloaf . i like to experiment with different herbs.
So, give home made bread crumbs recipes a go. i’m sure you’ll find your favourite one.

Frequently Asked Questions
Right then, how do I know if my bread is stale enough to use for bread crumbs?
Think of it like this: you want your bread to be as dry as a bone. It shouldn't be soft or pliable. If it's still a bit bendy, pop it in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a bit to dry it out properly before you "How to make bread crumbs". That way, you get proper crispy crumbs, not a soggy mess!
Can I use any type of bread to learn how to make bread crumbs?
Absolutely! While a crusty loaf like a baguette or sourdough works brilliantly because it gets super crunchy, you can use pretty much any bread you have lying around. White bread, whole wheat, even that slightly sad-looking hot dog bun at the back of the cupboard – they all work. Just remember the flavor of the bread will influence the final breadcrumb flavour!
Help! My bread crumbs are turning into bread flour when I use the food processor. What am I doing wrong?
Ah, a classic breadcrumb blunder! You're likely over-processing them. The key is to pulse, pulse, pulse! Use short bursts in the food processor rather than letting it run continuously. This gives you control over the consistency and prevents the crumbs from becoming too fine, like flour. Think of it as giving them a little tickle, not a full-on massage!
How long will my homemade bread crumbs last, and what's the best way to store them?
Homemade bread crumbs, stored correctly, can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or 3 months in the freezer. Make sure they're in an airtight container – a zip-top bag with all the air squeezed out or a sealed jar is ideal. Freezing is a cracking way to keep them fresh for longer; just make sure they're completely cool before you bag 'em up.
I fancy livening up my bread crumbs a bit. Any suggestions for variations?
You're after a bit of "oomph," are you? Get creative! For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some cayenne pepper to your seasoned bread crumbs. Dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano are also fantastic additions. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, and a touch of lemon zest can bring a bright, zingy flavour. Think of them as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!
I'm coeliac - is there a way to make gluten-free bread crumbs?
Bob's your uncle, there is! Simply substitute the stale bread with gluten-free bread. Follow all of the exact same steps in the "How to make bread crumbs" recipe, but just be sure that the bread you use is marked as gluten free. Remember to double-check any additional seasonings that you are adding to make sure they are gluten free as well!
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