These toasted panko breadcrumbs are crispy, buttery, and packed with flavor. With a hint of spice and herbs, they’re the perfect way to upgrade your favorite recipes. Best of all, they’re quick, easy, and made with ingredients you probably already have. Perfect to add a flavorful crunch to recipes like mac and cheese or grain bowls!
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Toasted panko breadcrumbs are the spicy, herby, crunchy, ultimate finishing touch to some of your favorite dishes. Toasted in butter, for a rich, golden crunch that’s both light and satisfying, these herby breadcrumbs take just 5 minutes to make.
Seasoned with oregano, parsley, and a hint of red pepper flakes, the flavor is bold and pairs well with many other recipes. Try sprinkling toasted panko over pasta, baked mac and cheese, Instant Pot gouda mac and cheese, or topping a creamy soup.
I've been topping everything with these crispy buttery breadcrumbs, from bulgur to lentils and even pan-fried cabbage. I bet they'd be fantastic on sauteed leeks too!
Ingredients
See the recipe card for exact amounts.
- butter: unsalted butter helps brown the bread crumbs and gives a rich nutty flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs: these Japanese-style breadcrumbs are super light and crispy, making them a great topping!
- red pepper flakes: for a bit of heat. Skip it if you don't tolerate spice at all.
- oregano + parsley: I like these two dried herbs for this recipe because they tend to go with a lot of other things I cook from Italian pasta dishes to Mediterranean-inspired grain bowls.
Substitutions + Variations
- herbs: try an Italian seasoning or Greek mix instead, or try Za'atar seasoning if you have it.
- Add freshly shredded Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs once they cool down.
Serving Tip
Add these toasted panko breadcrumbs wherever you need a little flavorful crunch, like on pasta, salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls!
Instructions
Prep Tips
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the Panko breadcrumbs and toss them in the butter.
- Add the dried herbs, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well.
- Continue to heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring often, until the breadcrumbs are toasted and golden brown.
When the breadcrumbs are perfectly golden brown transfer them to a bowl or plate to cool. This stops them from cooking and helps keep them golden instead of overdone.
Tips for Toasting Panko Breadcrumbs
- Toast over medium heat to ensure the breadcrumbs toast evenly without burning. Stir frequently for the best results.
- Breadcrumbs toast quickly, especially in butter. Stay close and stir often to prevent burning.
- Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a plate right away so they don't overcook in the hot pan.
- If you’re making these ahead, let the breadcrumbs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This prevents sogginess.
How to Use Toasted Panko Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle your crispy breadcrumbs over creamy pasta like Instant Pot gouda mac and cheese or a stuffed pepper casserole, for a golden, crispy finish.
They’re also an excellent addition to roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, giving them an extra layer of texture.
I also like to use this toasted panko for my tuna sushi bake!
More Recipes Using Panko Breadcrumbs
Storage
I store my toasted breadcrumbs at room temperature with the lid slightly off for air circulation to prevent the breadcrumbs from getting soft. I keep them for 5-6 days. You can also keep them in the fridge. You should keep them in the fridge if you're adding Parmesan cheese.
FAQs
To toast panko breadcrumbs on the stovetop simply heat them in a skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until they are toasty and browned.
Recipe
Toasted Panko Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter.
- Add the breadcrumbs, oregano, parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt. Toast, stirring often for 5-6 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Transfer the breadcrumbs to a plate or bowl to stop the cooking process and allow the breadcrumbs to cool. Use or store.
Video
Notes
Nutritional information is an estimate. Values vary based on products used. Read our full Nutrition Disclaimer.
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