Crispy Gluten-Free Savory Croutons

Serves: 8-12 (Yields about 6 cups) Prep Time: 5 minutes Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

Stop buying boring croutons! These homemade, gluten-free croutons are packed with a savory punch thanks to the secret weapon combo: Clean Monday Meals Italian Seasoning + Ranch Powder. They're buttery, perfectly crispy, and elevate any salad or soup instantly!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed gluten-free bread (cut into 3/4 to 1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup olive oil (or oil of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon Clean Monday Meals Italian Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Clean Monday Meals Ranch Powder
• Pinch of salt, optional

Instructions:

1. Pre-Bake/Dry (Optional but Recommended): Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly across a lined baking sheet. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. This helps the bread dry out and absorb the fat and seasonings more effectively later. (You can skip this if your bread cubes are already stale.)
2. Prepare Seasoning: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or chosen oil), the Italian Seasoning, and the Ranch Powder.
3. Toss and Coat: Add the dried bread cubes to the oil mixture. Toss well until all the bread cubes are evenly coated with the seasoned oil.
4. Second Bake (Crisping): Spread the seasoned bread cubes back onto the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Increase the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
5. Finish: Bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, checking often. Toss the croutons every 10 minutes to ensure even browning. Baking time will vary based on the initial dryness and the size of your cubes. They are finished when they are completely dried all the way through and crispy.
6. Cool and Store: Let the croutons cool completely before enjoying. Store in an airtight container for up to one month.