Cut the bread slices into large chunks that are about ¾ of an inch in size.
Slice a stick of butter into 4 cubes (it melts more evenly this way) and place it in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for about 1 minute or until the butter is fully melted.
Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the melted butter and stir well.
Place the bread chunks in a large mixing bowl and pour the melted butter mixture over the top, being sure to not pour it all in one place.
Using your hand or a rubber spatula, gently fold the bread pieces until they’re coated with a bit of the butter and seasoning.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the bread cubes evenly on the pan.
Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and enjoy!
Notes
You can use the bread you prefer, but the sourdough bakes up really well with a scrumptious flavor. You can also use stale bread or older bread. It’s a great way to use it up so there’s no waste.
If you want an even more vibrant flavor for your croutons, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
You can use oil in place of butter, if preferred. It would be the same amount, whichever you choose.
I suggest using a rubber glove and stirring the croutons with your hand before baking. It’s truly the best way to ensure the bread doesn’t get beat up in the stirring process and gets more evenly covered.
If you’re using salted butter, you may want to skip the salt altogether or reduce it by at least half.
One side of the croutons will turn out a bit darker than the other side. If you don’t want this (it doesn’t change the flavor), simply flip the croutons halfway through the baking process.