Name: Bread Crust Breadsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 7 to 8 cups stale bread crust trimmings; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan; 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

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Bread Crust Breadsticks are a clever and delicious way to turn leftover bread crusts into a golden, crunchy snack. Coated in olive oil, Parmesan, and thyme, these crispy breadsticks are perfect for dipping, serving with soup, or enjoying as a savory appetizer. Not only do they reduce food waste, but they’re also quick and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A zero-waste recipe that makes use of bread trimmings.
Crispy, cheesy, and full of herby flavor.
Ready in just 30 minutes.
Perfect for serving with dips, soups, or salads.
Stores well for snacking later.

Ingredients

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

3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
7 to 8 cups stale bread crust trimmings
kosher salt, to taste
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the bread crusts.
Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to coat.
Add Parmesan and thyme, tossing again until evenly coated.
Spread the crusts in a single layer on 2 baking sheets. Sprinkle any remaining cheese and thyme over the top.
Bake for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until deep golden and crunchy.
Let cool completely on the baking sheets before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for different herb flavors.
Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for a bolder seasoning.
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Make them spicy with a pinch of chili flakes.
For a sweeter twist, replace savory seasoning with cinnamon sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Re-crisp in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5 minutes if needed.
Not recommended for freezing, as texture may change.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?

Yes, but stale bread works better since it crisps up more easily.

What types of bread crusts work best?

Any type — white, whole wheat, sourdough, or baguette crusts.

Can I make these without cheese?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Can I air fry instead of baking?

Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I keep them crispy?

Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Can I add seeds for extra crunch?

Yes, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds work well.

Are these good for dipping?

Absolutely, they pair well with hummus, marinara, ranch, or spinach dip.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread crusts.

Do I have to use olive oil?

No, you can use melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor.

Can I make them in advance for a party?

Yes, prepare them a day ahead and store in a sealed container.

Conclusion

Bread Crust Breadsticks are a smart, tasty way to transform leftover bread into a crunchy snack or side dish. With Parmesan and thyme for flavor, these golden breadsticks are versatile enough to serve with dips, soups, or salads. Easy, budget-friendly, and waste-reducing, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good homemade snack.