Creative Uses for Leftover Sourdough

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Sourdough

After investing time and effort into crafting the perfect sourdough loaf, it can be disheartening to see any of it go to waste. However, leftover sourdough can serve as a canvas for imaginative culinary creations. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a home cook looking for inspiration, there are numerous ways to repurpose that extra bread into something delightful.

1. Revitalize with Sourdough Croutons

Crispy sourdough croutons are a fantastic way to add texture and flavor to salads and soups. Simply cube the leftover bread and toss it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs of your choice. Bake in the oven until golden brown. These homemade croutons are far superior to store-bought versions, adding a personalized touch to your dishes.

Tip: Experiment with different seasonings like rosemary, thyme, or parmesan cheese to create unique flavor profiles for your croutons.

2. Indulge in Sourdough Bread Pudding

Sourdough's denser texture makes it ideal for rich and creamy bread pudding. Combine cubed bread with a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, then bake until set. This comforting dessert can be customized with add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts for extra indulgence.

Bread pudding is not just limited to sweet variations; savory versions can be crafted using cheese, herbs, and vegetables. This versatility makes sourdough bread pudding a perfect option for brunch or dinner.

3. Make Your Own Breadcrumbs

Why buy breadcrumbs when you can make your own? You can make bread crumbs with any sandwich or loaf bread. Sourdough bread, wheat bread, white sandwich bread, hot dog or hamburger buns, French bread–they all work great! Just:
✔ Tear the bread into pieces and let it dry completely.
✔ Pulse in a food processor or crush by hand for a rustic texture.
✔ Store in an airtight container and use for breading, meatballs, or toppings.

Bread crumbs are essential for Baked Italian Meatballs, meatloaf, fried chicken, Zucchini Fritters, and many more recipes. 

Just take a look at the list of ingredients from store ones. Really? Is this what you want to eat?  

4. Try a Savory Strata or Breakfast Bake

Transform your leftover sourdough into homemade breadcrumbs by drying the bread and then pulsing it in a food processor. These breadcrumbs can be used to coat chicken or fish, or as a topping for casseroles and pasta dishes. Homemade breadcrumbs provide a fresher taste and are free from preservatives found in store-bought options.

5. Revive It with a Quick Refresh

Not too stale yet? Bring your bread back to life:
✔ Sprinkle it with a little water.
✔ Wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
✔ Enjoy warm, soft, and almost like fresh-baked!

6. Sourdough French Toast

Slightly dry sourdough makes the best French toast because it absorbs custard without falling apart. Just:
✔ Whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
✔ Dip thick slices of sourdough in the mixture.
✔ Pan-fry in butter until golden brown.

7. Turn It Into Panzanella (Bread Salad)

This Tuscan-style salad gives stale bread a whole new life:
✔ Cube bread and toss with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and basil.
✔ Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
✔ Let it sit for 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Sourdough is Too Good to Waste

Bread is meant to be eaten, not thrown away. By finding creative ways to use every last slice, you’re not just reducing food waste.

Got more ideas? Share your favorite ways to use leftover sourdough in the comments! And if you need a fresh loaf, Join our mailing list to be the first to know when our next batch is ready!