How to Make Homemade Breadcrumbs (Easy DIY Recipe!)
Easy Homemade Breadcrumbs
Hey friend! Ever found yourself halfway through a recipe only to realize you’re out of breadcrumbs? No need to run to the store— it’s so easy to make homemade breadcrumbs, plus it’s also budget-friendly and way tastier than the store-bought kind.
Whether you need crispy, golden breadcrumbs for breading chicken or soft, fresh breadcrumbs for meatballs, this DIY recipe has got you covered. Let’s get to it!
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Why Make Homemade Breadcrumbs?
Saves Money: Use up old bread instead of tossing it!
No Preservatives: Store-bought breadcrumbs can have extra additives—yours will be 100% natural.
Customizable: Make them plain, seasoned, or even gluten-free!
What You’ll Need
Bread: Any kind works—white, wheat, sourdough, gluten-free, or even leftover buns!
Oven or Air Fryer: To dry out the bread for crispy crumbs.
Food Processor (or Blender): To get that perfect crumb texture.
Optional Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese—whatever you love!
How to Make DIY Homemade Breadcrumbs
Step 1: Choose & Prep Your Bread
- If using fresh bread, you’ll need to dry it out first (more on that below!).
- If your bread is already stale, you’re ahead of the game!
Step 2: Blend It Up!
- Tear apart bread and put in food processor or blender.
- Pulse until you get your preferred texture—coarse crumbs for casseroles or fine crumbs for breading.
If your bread isn’t super dry yet, pop it in the oven (Step 3)
Step 3: Toast the Bread (for Dry Breadcrumbs)
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Tear bread into pieces and spread them on a baking sheet. ( I LOVE this stainless steal one from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4gtKPJy)
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until dry but not browned.
Shortcut: Use an air fryer at 300°F for 5-7 minutes!
Step 4: Add Flavor (Optional)
- Mix in garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, or even grated parmesan for an extra flavor punch.
Step 5: Store Your Breadcrumbs
- Fresh Breadcrumbs: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Dry Breadcrumbs: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 months.
- Freezing? Yep! Dry breadcrumbs freeze beautifully—just pop them in a ziplock bag and use as needed.
Ways to Use Your Homemade Breadcrumbs
Crispy Chicken Tenders – Coat in breadcrumbs for the best crunch!
Meatballs & Meatloaf – Add to ground meat for the perfect texture.
Mac & Cheese Topping – Sprinkle on top for extra crispiness!
Breaded Veggies – Use on zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for an easy side.
Final Thoughts: No More Store-Bought Crumbs!
See? Making breadcrumbs at home is quick, easy, and totally worth it! Next time you’ve got leftover bread, don’t throw it out—turn it into something delicious.
