25+ Delicious Leftover French Bread Recipes for Every Meal

Leftover French bread can often be a source of frustration, leaving home cooks wondering how to make the most of what could easily become stale and unappetizing.

Instead of tossing it out, why not breathe new life into those leftover loaves?

From savory dishes to sweet treats, French bread offers endless possibilities that can transform your leftovers into culinary delights.

In this article, we’ve curated 25+ delicious recipes that not only help you reduce waste but also allow you to indulge in creative and satisfying meals.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bread pudding, crunchy croutons for your salads, or a hearty breakfast bake, we have something for everyone.

Let’s dive into these inventive recipes that showcase the versatility of leftover French bread and turn it into something truly special!

25+ Delicious Leftover French Bread Recipes for Every Meal

With these 25+ leftover French bread recipes, you now have a wealth of ideas at your fingertips to combat food waste and create delicious meals.

Each recipe offers a unique way to repurpose stale bread, ensuring that every crumb is utilized and enjoyed.

From hearty casseroles to quick snacks, the possibilities are endless.

So, next time you find yourself with leftover French bread, don’t let it go to waste—let it inspire you to whip up something wonderful!

Savory French Bread Strata

A savory French Bread Strata is a perfect way to transform leftover French bread into a comforting, hearty dish. This casserole-like dish combines eggs, cheese, vegetables, and day-old bread, soaking everything in a rich custard base. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this strata is versatile and easily customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, spinach)
• 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon (optional)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp butter (for greasing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the dish.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese, vegetables, and sausage (if using) over the bread.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is soaked.
6. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the strata is golden brown and set in the center.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This savory strata is a fantastic way to use up stale bread while offering a delicious, filling meal. You can also make it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for an effortless breakfast.

French Bread Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins

French Bread Pudding is a classic, sweet way to utilize leftover French bread. The soft, custardy texture combined with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of raisins makes it a perfect dessert or even a decadent breakfast treat. With a hint of vanilla and optional whipped cream or caramel sauce on top, this bread pudding is irresistibly comforting.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 2 cups milk
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup raisins
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Optional: whipped cream or caramel sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
2. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Stir in the raisins.
5. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring each piece is well soaked.
6. Let the bread sit for about 15 minutes to fully absorb the liquid.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
8. Serve warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

Bread pudding is a perfect solution for when you want to enjoy something sweet but don’t want your leftover bread to go to waste. It’s also a great dish to customize by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different dried fruits to suit your preference.

Garlic and Herb French Bread Croutons

Turning leftover French bread into croutons is an easy and delicious way to add crunch and flavor to salads, soups, or even as a snack. These garlic and herb croutons are crispy, flavorful, and versatile. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and store for later use.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in an even layer on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the croutons are golden and crispy.
5. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

These garlic and herb croutons are a great way to add new life to your leftover French bread. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week and can be used to enhance your favorite dishes, offering a crunchy, savory bite to any meal.

French Bread Breakfast Casserole with Ham and Cheese

This French Bread Breakfast Casserole combines leftover French bread with ham, cheese, and a rich egg mixture, creating a delicious, hearty dish perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in advance, making it a convenient meal for a busy morning. The creamy custard and the savory flavors of ham and cheese elevate simple ingredients into something special.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 1 ½ cups diced ham
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (for greasing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the diced ham and shredded cheese over the bread cubes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring everything is evenly soaked.
6. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the eggs are set in the center.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This casserole is a great way to use up leftovers while making a satisfying meal. You can also customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as bacon or different types of cheese, for even more flavor combinations.

French Bread Pizza Boats

French Bread Pizza Boats are a fun and creative way to repurpose leftover French bread. Topped with sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, these mini pizza boats are quick to assemble and perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Kids and adults alike will love these customizable, crispy pizzas.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread, halved lengthwise
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni or other toppings (mushrooms, olives, peppers, etc.)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the halved French bread on a baking sheet, cut side up, and brush with olive oil.
3. Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over each half of the bread.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
5. Add your choice of toppings such as pepperoni, vegetables, or olives.
6. Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder over the top for added flavor.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are crispy.
8. Slice the pizza boats into individual portions and serve.

French Bread Pizza Boats are not only delicious but also a fun way to get creative in the kitchen. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or an easy snack, and they can be tailored to your favorite pizza flavors.

French Bread Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil

This French Bread Bruschetta is an elegant and flavorful appetizer that transforms stale bread into crispy, golden crostini. Topped with a fresh tomato and basil mixture, it’s a light and refreshing dish perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a starter to any meal. The simple ingredients come together beautifully, offering a delightful combination of crunchy bread and juicy, tangy toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
• 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the French bread slices on a baking sheet and brush with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crisp.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice of toasted French bread.
6. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
7. Serve immediately as a fresh, crunchy appetizer.

French Bread Bruschetta is a perfect way to use up leftover bread while serving up something vibrant and delicious. The combination of fresh ingredients and crispy bread is sure to be a hit, making it a great addition to any gathering.

Cheesy French Bread Garlic Toast

Cheesy French Bread Garlic Toast is an indulgent and easy way to elevate your leftover French bread. This recipe transforms stale bread into a flavorful side dish or snack that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. The combination of melted cheese and garlic creates a savory treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread, sliced in half lengthwise
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of the French bread.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Slice into pieces and serve warm.

This cheesy garlic toast is a wonderful way to use leftover French bread, transforming it into a decadent side that everyone will enjoy. It’s quick to make and can easily be customized with different cheeses or herbs, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Stuffed French Bread Sandwiches

Stuffed French Bread Sandwiches are a fantastic way to turn leftover French bread into hearty, satisfying meals. These sandwiches can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a customizable option for lunch or dinner. The bread’s crusty exterior and soft interior provide the perfect base for delicious fillings, making this dish a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread
• 1 cup cooked chicken or turkey, shredded
• 1 cup spinach or arugula
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp pesto or mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and hollow out a bit of the inside to make room for the filling.
3. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken or turkey, spinach, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, pesto or mustard, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
4. Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out French bread halves, pressing down gently to pack it in.
5. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
6. Remove from the oven, slice into individual sandwiches, and serve warm.

These stuffed French bread sandwiches are not only delicious but also a great way to utilize leftover ingredients you may have in your fridge. They’re perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd, as you can easily double or triple the recipe.

French Bread Tiramisu

For a delightful twist on a classic dessert, French Bread Tiramisu offers a unique way to use leftover French bread. This version of the traditional Italian dessert replaces the ladyfingers with slices of French bread, soaking them in a rich coffee mixture and layering them with a creamy mascarpone filling. It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread, sliced
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• ½ cup coffee liqueur (optional)
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
2. Dip each slice of French bread into the coffee mixture for a few seconds, allowing it to soak without becoming too soggy.
3. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
4. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until well blended and smooth.
5. In a 9×9-inch dish, layer half of the soaked French bread slices on the bottom.
6. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the bread, smoothing it out evenly.
7. Repeat with another layer of soaked bread and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.
9. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder for a finishing touch.

French Bread Tiramisu is a delectable way to impress guests while making the most of your leftover bread. Its creamy, coffee-infused layers create a rich dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option, allowing you to enjoy the party without worrying about last-minute preparations.

Savory French Bread Pudding with Vegetables

Savory French Bread Pudding with Vegetables is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding, making it an ideal dish for using up leftover French bread. This recipe features a medley of seasonal vegetables and a rich custard, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, showcasing the versatility of stale bread.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère work well)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the mixed vegetables until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cubed French bread, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This Savory French Bread Pudding is a great way to incorporate leftover bread into a dish that feels both luxurious and wholesome. The combination of eggs, cheese, and vegetables creates a satisfying meal that can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion.

French Bread Croutons for Salads and Soups

Transform your leftover French bread into homemade croutons, an easy and delicious addition to salads and soups. These crunchy bites add texture and flavor, elevating simple dishes to something special. You can customize the seasoning to match your favorite cuisines, making them a versatile pantry staple.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed French bread, olive oil, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
5. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the croutons during the last few minutes of baking for extra flavor.
6. Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Homemade croutons are a simple way to reduce food waste while enhancing your meals. They add crunch and a burst of flavor, making any salad or soup more enjoyable. You can experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique blend, ensuring that every batch suits your taste.

French Bread Fruit and Nut Dessert

This French Bread Fruit and Nut Dessert is a delightful way to use leftover French bread in a sweet and satisfying treat. The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and a rich custard creates a decadent dish that can be served warm or chilled. It’s a lovely option for brunch or as a light dessert, showcasing the natural sweetness of the ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed French bread, dried fruits, and chopped nuts, mixing gently.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, making sure all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
6. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.

This Fruit and Nut Dessert is an innovative way to transform stale bread into something truly special. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors creates a comforting dessert that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, making it a delightful conclusion to any meal.

French Bread Pizza Bites

French Bread Pizza Bites are a fun and easy way to repurpose leftover French bread into a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. With endless topping possibilities, this recipe allows for creativity while delivering the satisfying flavors of a classic pizza. They’re perfect for game nights, parties, or as a quick meal for busy evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup pepperoni slices or your choice of toppings (vegetables, sausage, olives)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the sliced French bread pieces on the baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on each slice, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Add your desired toppings, such as pepperoni or vegetables, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

French Bread Pizza Bites offer a delightful way to use leftover bread while satisfying pizza cravings in a bite-sized form. They are quick to prepare, customizable, and can be served as a snack or main dish, making them perfect for any occasion.

French Bread Panzanella Salad

French Bread Panzanella Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that takes advantage of stale French bread while incorporating fresh vegetables. This Italian-inspired salad is bursting with flavor and texture, making it an excellent option for summer meals or as a side dish for gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups leftover French bread, cubed
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup fresh basil, torn
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread the cubed French bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and crunchy. Remove and let cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and basil.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
5. Add the toasted bread cubes to the salad mixture, followed by the dressing. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavors.
6. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This French Bread Panzanella Salad is a perfect way to enjoy the freshness of vegetables while reducing food waste. The crispy bread combined with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers creates a delightful contrast, making it a standout dish that celebrates the bounty of the season.

Baked French Bread with Egg and Cheese

Baked French Bread with Egg and Cheese is a hearty breakfast option that transforms stale French bread into a satisfying morning meal. This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings or as a quick breakfast when you have a busy day ahead. The combination of eggs, cheese, and herbs creates a comforting dish that’s both delicious and filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of leftover French bread, cut in half lengthwise
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your preference)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Place the halved French bread in the prepared baking dish, cut side up.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the French bread halves, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the bread.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Baked French Bread with Egg and Cheese is a delicious and filling way to start the day. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for the addition of various ingredients, such as vegetables or meats, making it easy to customize based on your preferences. This dish is not only a great way to use leftover bread, but it also offers a hearty breakfast option that everyone will love.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!