Crispy Fried Bread: The Best Way to Use from Stale Bread

Looking for an easy, budget-friendly snack? This Fried Bread Recipe is the perfect solution! Made from stale bread and simple ingredients like eggs, Parmesan cheese, and milk, this Italian-inspired dish is crispy, savory, and utterly satisfying. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast or an afternoon treat, fried bread has you covered. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up stale bread and avoid food waste!

What Is Fried Bread?

Fried bread is a simple yet irresistible dish that has been enjoyed in many cultures. This version takes inspiration from Italian comfort food, where stale bread is revived and transformed into a savory snack. By dipping the bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and Parmesan cheese, and then frying it, you create a delightful contrast of textures. It’s a timeless recipe passed down from Italian grandmothers, offering both nostalgia and flavor in every bite.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

Fried bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich cheesy flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s a quick snack that anyone can prepare, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking for an inexpensive and delicious treat. By using stale bread, you can cut down on waste while enjoying a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from an Italian grandma. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, ideal for any occasion.

Cooking Tips

• Use Stale Bread: The best bread for this recipe is stale or day-old bread. It soaks up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan is traditional, you can also try mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, or even a blend for different flavors.
• Frying Tips: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (medium-high) to ensure a golden-brown, crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Bread for This Recipe?

It’s better to use stale bread, as it holds up better in the egg mixture. Fresh bread tends to get soggy.

How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick.

What Can I Serve With Fried Bread?

Fried bread is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh tomato salad or even scrambled eggs.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Fried bread is best served fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat it in a skillet.

What’s The Best Type of Oil For Frying?

Olive oil is ideal for frying, giving the bread a wonderful flavor, but you can also use vegetable oil or sunflower oil if preferred.

How to Store

Once your fried bread has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat to restore its crispy texture.

How to Freeze edito

To freeze leftover fried bread, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze it. After it's frozen, transfer it to a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to crisp it up.

How To Make Fried Bread

Cut the bread into thick slices. If it's fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly.

Make the egg mixture: In a bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Coat each slice of bread first in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully covered. Heat the oil: In a non-stick pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Fry the bread slices in batches, cooking until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Once crispy, transfer the bread to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!