Sure, we know that bread is best consumed when it’s doughy, soft and fresh. But we also abide by the golden rule of carbs—that all leftover bread shall never go to waste. Here, 11 ways to turn old bread into something delicious, whether it’s croutons, casserole or a savory breadcrumb topping.
11 Delicious Ways to Use Up Leftover Bread
1. Brussels Sprouts Skillet With Crispy Pancetta-garlic Breadcrumbs
Transform a few slices of leftover bread into breadcrumbs by running them through a food processor or blender, then toast them up and top everything in sight.
2. Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta
Here, the hand-crafted sourdough toast from The Rustik Oven™ has a secret: It’s rubbed with a clove of garlic for an extra boost of flavor beneath a bed of juicy marinated tomatoes.
3. Chicken Parmesan Bites
Swap the store-bought breadcrumbs in this crowd-pleasing recipe with fresh, then pat yourself on the back for making the appetizer from scratch.
4. Roasted Broccoli And Aged White Cheddar Soup
The Rustik Oven™ Sourdough Bread bowl makes this soup really sing. But if you don’t have a full loaf of bread leftover, no worries. Just use the remainders to make the savory breadcrumb topping (a must) and serve the soup in traditional bowls.
5. Sunday Morning French Toast
Day-old bread is ideal for soaking up the custard base of this French toast. Maple syrup is optional but highly encouraged.
6. Tomato And White Bean Stew On Toast
The toastier the bread, the better it will soak up all those savory tomato juices.
7. The Best Croutons Ever
Step up your crouton game the easiest way possible by adding a bunch of chopped fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.
8. Spring Panzanella Salad
You can’t have panzanella without bread, and it’s actually tastier if the loaf is a few days old.
9. Split Pea Soup With Bacon And Beer
Hear us out: This soup isn’t the most glamorous, but it makes up for that in flavor. The croutons aren’t strictly necessary, but we like to take things over the top.
10. Macaroni And Cheese In Acorn Squash Bowls
Consider the crispy breadcrumbs atop this creamy, luscious mac and cheese the icing on the proverbial cake.
11. Leek, Kale And Goat Cheese Strata
It’s like a bread pudding, but savory. (Go ahead, make breakfast for dinner.)