Have you ever bought a beautiful loaf of bread only to have it go stale before you could finish it? Stale bread may not be appetizing to eat on its own, but there are plenty of ways to repurpose it and save it from ending up in the trash.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of stale bread:.
1. Turn it into breadcrumbs
One of the easiest ways to use up stale bread is to turn it into breadcrumbs. Simply tear the bread into small pieces, place them in a food processor, and pulse until you have fine crumbs.
Transfer the crumbs to a resealable bag and store them in the freezer until you’re ready to use them. Breadcrumbs can be used to top casseroles, coat chicken or fish, or even as a garnish for soups and salads.
2. Make croutons
Another classic way to use stale bread is to turn it into croutons. Cut the bread into small cubes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and any herbs or seasonings you like.
Spread the croutons out on a baking sheet and bake them in a 375-degree oven until they’re golden brown and crispy. Croutons are perfect for adding crunch to salads or soups.
3. Whip up French toast
Stale bread is the perfect base for French toast. Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a shallow dish. Dip slices of bread in the egg mixture and cook them in a greased skillet until they’re golden brown on both sides.
Serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
4. Make bread pudding
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that’s perfect for using up stale bread. Tear the bread into small pieces and place them in a baking dish. Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and any spices you like and pour the mixture over the bread.
Let the bread soak up the liquid for about 30 minutes, then bake in a 350-degree oven until the pudding is set and golden brown. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Related Article
30 Ways to Use Leftover Bread
5. Try panzanella salad
Panzanella salad is a delicious Italian dish that uses stale bread as a base. Toss torn bread cubes with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the bread to soak up the dressing, then serve.
6. Make a breakfast casserole
Stale bread is perfect for making a hearty breakfast casserole. Simply tear the bread into small pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Whisk together eggs, milk, cheese, and any vegetables or meats you like and pour the mixture over the bread.
Let the casserole sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid, then bake in a 350-degree oven until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
7. Use it in stuffing
Stale bread is a must-have ingredient in any Thanksgiving stuffing recipe. Tear the bread into small pieces and toss with sautéed onions and celery, fresh herbs like sage and thyme, and any meats or nuts you like.
Add chicken or vegetable broth to moisten the mixture, then bake in a 350-degree oven until the stuffing is golden brown and crispy.
8. Dip it in soup
Stale bread is the perfect accompaniment to soup. Cut the bread into small slices and toast it in the oven until it’s crispy. Serve the toast alongside your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
9. Freeze it for later
If you don’t have any immediate plans for your stale bread, consider freezing it for later. Simply wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable freezer bag.
The bread will last for several months in the freezer and can be thawed and used in any of the above recipes.
10. Use it as bird food
If all else fails, you can always use stale bread as bird food. Simply crumble the bread into small pieces and scatter it in your yard or in a bird feeder. Birds will love the added nutrition and you’ll feel good about not wasting your food.
