Brian Nagele
Bread is a staple in most households, but have you ever wondered what to do with leftover bread crusts? Throwing them away seems like a waste, but they don’t always have to be eaten as is.
In this article, we’ll give you plenty of unique ideas and recipes to use up those leftover bread crusts in a tasty way.
Whether you want a sweet or savory dish, there’s plenty to do with that leftover loaf. So, before peering at the trash, look at these ideas and recipes to get inspired!
Don’t throw away those leftover bread crusts! Instead, use them in one of these ten ideas to create a delicious dish and make the most out of them.
1. Bread Crumb Topping
If you’ve got a savory dish that needs a crispy topping, bread crusts are a perfect solution.
To make a bread crumb topping, use a food processor to grind the bread crust into small pieces.
Then, in a pan, melt some butter and add the breadcrumbs. Cook them over medium heat, frequently stirring until they’re golden brown.
You can use the bread crumb topping on dishes such as macaroni and cheese, casseroles, or roasted vegetables for a delightful and dynamic overall consistency and incredible taste.
2. Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a delicious way to use a stale loaf or leftover bread crusts.
Here’s a quick recipe:
In a large bowl, mix together eggs, milk, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.
Then, add in the bread crusts and stir the mixture until the bread is coated. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes so the bread can soak up the liquid.
Finally, pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake it for around 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
It’s nice to serve this bread pudding warm with a big drizzle of maple syrup or honey.
3. French Toast Sticks
French toast sticks are a fantastic breakfast recipe that is easy to make and great for kids and adults alike.
To make them with leftover bread crusts, cut them into sticks and dip them into a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
Next, heat a pan on medium heat and melt some butter. Add the breadsticks to the pan and cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides.
We recommend serving French toast sticks with syrup or jam for a delicious and easy breakfast the whole family will love!
4. Bread Crust Pizza
If you’re craving pizza but have no pizza dough, you can make a delicious version with leftover bread crusts.
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the bread crusts on the baking sheet and top them with your favorite pizza toppings, such as tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni, olives, etc.
Bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts and the crust looks golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade pizza with some extra sauce on the side!
5. Croutons
Croutons are a wonderful way to add crunch and flavor to salads, soups, or any other dish with extra texture.
They’re also one of the most common things to make with leftover bread crusts.
Start by cutting crusts into small cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet.
Then, drizzle some olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the cubes and toss them until they’re evenly coated.
Bake the croutons for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Let them cool before adding them to your dish of choice.
6. Cheesy Garlic Bread
Cheesy garlic bread is a fan favorite that can be made with any bread, including leftover bread crusts.
Here’s a simple recipe: Start by preheating the oven to 375°F. Spread butter onto the bread crusts and sprinkle them with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Top the bread with the cheese of your choice and bake it for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
You can serve the cheesy garlic bread with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping!
Or, you can choose to serve them on the side of your favorite saucy pasta dish to help clean up the plate afterward.
7. Toasted Bread Crusts
Sometimes, the best way to use those leftover bread crusts is to simply toast them.
Toasted bread crusts are a fantastic snack that’s easy to make and great for packing on the go for picnics, school lunches, and more.
To make them, first, preheat your oven to 375°F, then spread the bread crusts out on a baking sheet.
Lightly brush the crusts with olive oil, sprinkle them with garlic powder, and bake them for 8-10 minutes or until they’re lightly golden brown. Let them cool before serving, and enjoy!
8. Bread Crust Grilled Cheese
Bread crust grilled cheese has a similar idea to the bread crust garlic cheesy bread mentioned above but in a more classic sandwich style.
To make it, spread some butter onto the two pieces of bread crusts. Place them on a preheated skillet and top one of the pieces with your favorite cheese.
Then, cover the skillet with a lid and cook it for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crusts are golden brown.
Finally, add the second piece of bread crust on top to make a sandwich. This grilled cheese recipe tastes great with a side of soup or salad!
9. Bread Crust Calzones
If you’re looking for something more creative with your bread crusts, why not try making mini calzones?
Cut and roll out the bread crusts into circles and fill each one with your favorite ingredients, such as cheese, meats, vegetables, and sauces.
Fold the crust to form a half-moon shape and seal it with your fingers or a fork.
Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
These tasty homemade calzones are best when served hot out of the oven.
10. Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats
If you’re looking for a sweet after-dinner treat, try making cinnamon sugar bread crusts.
To make them, preheat the oven to 375°F and spread the bread crusts out on a baking sheet.
Brush them lightly with butter and sprinkle some cinnamon sugar over the top.
Bake them for 8-10 minutes or until the crusts are golden brown and crispy. Allow them to cool down before serving this delicious, sweet snack!
FAQs
Using leftover bread crusts doesn’t have to be a drag. Here are our answers to two commonly asked questions regarding bread crusts.
How do you save bread crusts?
To save bread crusts, put them in an airtight container or in a bag and store them in your freezer until you’re ready to use them. Freezer storage will ensure they stay fresh and prevent them from going stale.
What can I do with old bread ends?
Old bread ends can be used in the same way as bread crusts. You can make tasty breadcrumbs, bread pudding, French toast sticks, or use them for a bread crust pizza or croutons.
