Name: Keto Garlic Butter Croutons
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Keto
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or swap with cheddar for a different flavor); 1/2 cup almond flour; 2 tablespoons garlic powder (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil for non-dairy)

These crispy, flavorful Keto Garlic Butter Croutons bring the satisfying crunch you crave on salads without the carbs. Made with simple ingredients, these cheesy, garlicky bites are perfect for adding texture to your favorite keto-friendly dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade keto croutons solve the dilemma of wanting that perfect salad crunch while maintaining your low-carb lifestyle. Unlike store-bought varieties loaded with carbs, these croutons are high in protein and healthy fats while being virtually carb-free. They’re incredibly versatile, adding texture not just to salads but also to soups and as a stand-alone snack. Plus, they’re super easy to customize with different herbs and spices to match whatever cuisine you’re serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mozzarella cheese forms the structural foundation of these croutons, providing that irresistible stretchy, chewy interior while crisping up beautifully on the outside. When baked, it creates that satisfying crunch you expect from traditional croutons. You can experiment with different hard cheeses to vary the flavor profile.

Almond flour works as the perfect low-carb substitute for wheat flour, giving these croutons substance and structure while keeping the carb count minimal. It adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the cheese and garlic wonderfully.

Garlic powder infuses these croutons with that classic savory flavor that pairs perfectly with almost any dish. It distributes evenly throughout the dough, ensuring every bite has that delicious garlic taste without the risk of burning that fresh garlic might present.

Unsalted butter brings richness and helps the croutons develop a golden-brown exterior when baked. It also helps blend the cheese and almond flour together for a cohesive dough. The fat content contributes to the satisfying mouthfeel and helps keep you full longer.

Directions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and unsalted butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the cheese is fully melted and well combined.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, blend together the almond flour and garlic powder evenly.
Create the Dough:
- Pour the melted cheese mixture into the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms.
Shape and Bake:
- Transfer the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and firm.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Cut into small, crouton-sized pieces.
Crisp and Cool:
- Return the cut pieces to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes for extra crunch.
- Allow the croutons to cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 6 servings of crunchy keto croutons, with each serving containing approximately 110 calories. The preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 30 minutes, bringing the total time to 40 minutes. These numbers make it an efficient recipe that provides a good amount of croutons for weekly meal prep.

Variations

Italian Herb Croutons: Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning blend to the dry ingredients for a Mediterranean twist.

Spicy Croutons: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Ranch Croutons: Add 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix to the dry ingredients for a tangy, herby flavor.

Cheese Variation: Substitute the mozzarella with pepper jack for a spicy kick or aged cheddar for a sharper flavor profile.

Rosemary Parmesan: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan to the dough for an elevated flavor.

Storage/Reheating

These keto croutons store exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

If your croutons lose some of their crispiness over time, simply place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This will restore their crunch without burning them.

For long-term storage, these croutons can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature and reheat as needed to restore crispness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for these keto croutons?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other hard cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a mix of cheeses. Keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and may melt differently, so you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

My dough is too sticky to work with. What should I do?

If your dough is too sticky, let it cool for a few minutes first. You can also wet your hands with cold water or add a small amount of additional almond flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until it reaches a workable consistency.

Are these croutons dairy-free?

As written, this recipe contains dairy in the form of cheese and butter. For a dairy-free version, you could experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut oil instead of butter, though the texture and flavor will be different.

How can I make these croutons extra crunchy?

For maximum crunch, make sure to cut them into smaller pieces, extend the second baking time by 2-5 minutes (watching carefully to prevent burning), and allow them to cool completely before storing.

Can I add fresh herbs to this recipe?

Fresh herbs can be added, but use them sparingly as they contain moisture that could affect the crispness. Dried herbs generally work better in this recipe, but if using fresh, finely chop them and limit to 1-2 teaspoons total.

My croutons burned before they got crunchy. What went wrong?

Oven temperatures can vary. Try reducing your oven temperature by 25°F and keeping a closer eye on them. You could also position the baking sheet in the middle rack rather than the top or bottom racks.

How many net carbs are in each serving?

Each serving contains approximately 2-3 grams of net carbs, making these croutons an excellent choice for those following strict keto diets.

Can I make these croutons in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry the initial dough at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, then cut into pieces and air fry again at 320°F for 5-7 minutes for a quick, energy-efficient option.

Will these croutons get soggy in soup?

These cheese-based croutons hold up surprisingly well in soups and salads with dressing. They’ll absorb some liquid but maintain their structure longer than traditional bread croutons due to their high fat content.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles very well. Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet or divide the dough between two sheets to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

These Keto Garlic Butter Croutons are a game-changer for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle who misses that satisfying crunch in their salads and soups. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought croutons loaded with carbs and preservatives.

The versatility of this recipe means you can adapt it to complement any meal, whether you’re craving Italian, ranch, or spicy flavors. Plus, their excellent storage capability makes them perfect for meal prep – make a batch on Sunday and enjoy crispy, flavorful croutons all week long.

Give these keto-friendly croutons a try, and you’ll find yourself making them regularly not just for the nutritional benefits, but because they genuinely taste delicious and add that perfect textural element that makes good meals great.