Too often, items in our fridge or cupboards go bad, and we can’t use them anymore. Bread is a constant culprit, getting moldy or stale before we can have a slice. However, there are some ways to use stale bread in recipes. So, the next time you have a stale loaf and need a creative fix to get your money’s worth, try using one of these six ways to use stale bread before it goes bad.
6. Panzanella
Starting our list of ways to use stale bread is panzanella. The classic Italian dish needs a sturdy bread to soak in the dressing and tomatoes without getting super soggy, and stale bread is a great choice. The bread will get softer but stay intact. While the basic recipe contains diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, basil leaves, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and salt, try out several other variations to spice up your meal.
5. Meatloaf
Fifth on our list of ways to use stale bread is meatloaf. A delicious option for the colder months or any time or year, classic meatloaf recipes require slices of bread to be soaked in milk before combining with the meat. Using slightly stale bread is perfect then, as it will rehydrate after being soaked in the milk, and taste just like you bought it that day. There are all types of meatloaf variations, including this buffalo chicken-style option.
4. Stuffing
Next on our list of ways to use stale bread is stuffing. Thanksgiving isn’t the only time you can enjoy all sorts of stuffing. Stale bread is a great choice to use for stuffing because it holds up better when mixed with other ingredients and can create a nice, crispy stuffing. You can also customize with different toppings or make a vegetarian version.
3. Bread Pudding
Rounding out the top three ways to use stale bread is bread pudding. Whether you deem it a breakfast item or the perfect dessert dish, bread pudding is a sweet and delicious way to use up that stale bread. It soaks up the custard and makes all the pieces super fluffy once baked. You can serve the dish with rum sauce, ice cream, or fruit.
2. Breadcrumbs
Second on our list of ways to use stale bread is breadcrumbs. One of the easiest ways to use stale bread is to put stale bread chunks in the food processor and pulse until the crumbs are the right size. You can even add seasonings to the breadcrumbs to create a panko-style breadcrumb to use for all sorts of meals. No one will ever know it was with stale bread, either.
1. Croutons
Last but not least on our list of ways to use stale bread crumbs are croutons. Elevate your salad by adding your own croutons, and skip spending more money at the store for a bag of pre-made ones. All you need is the bread, some olive oil, and your preferred spices before baking. They can also be great for soup.