12 Types Of Breadcrumbs And How To Use Them

You may think that breadcrumbs are one of those foods which are easy to find and don't do much for the taste of a dish. Although many people know that there are several types of breadcrumbs, they may not place much importance on the differences and use them interchangeably. The best proof of this is that, generally, recipes require generic "breadcrumbs" rather than a specific variety.

However, breadcrumbs varieties have different features in terms of flavor and texture. For instance, the difference between panko and regular breadcrumbs is that panko is crunchier and absorbs less fat. Thus, it's better suited for baked and fried foods, whereas regular breadcrumbs ensure an airier texture in meatloaf or meatballs. However, there are many other differences and other breadcrumbs varieties, all better suited to specific recipes. You can even find gluten-free or keto-friendly breadcrumbs. Take a look at the following breadcrumb varieties and which recipes to use them.

Fresh untoasted breadcrumbs go well in those recipes that primarily rely on texture or need a binding agent. They are moist, tender, and slightly nutty, making them an ideal ingredient for meatloaf, mac and cheese, soups, and meats.

You can use a food processor or crush the bread by hand to make fresh breadcrumbs. Start by selecting a loaf of bread with a dense texture, such as sourdough, French, or Italian bread. Cut the bread into small pieces, place them in a food processor, and pulse until it is reduced to small crumbs. Alternatively, you can use a grater or a blender to make the breadcrumbs.

One of the best uses for fresh breadcrumbs is as a meatloaf binder that helps hold the meat together, making it moist and tender. Mix the breadcrumbs with ground beef, pork or turkey, eggs, and seasonings to make the meatloaf. Then shape the mixture into a loaf and bake it in the oven. Fresh breadcrumbs can also be used to thicken soups and stews. They will give the soup a rich and creamy texture. You can also coat meats, like chicken or fish, and fry them in a pan until crispy and golden brown.

Italian-style breadcrumbs are seasoned with herbs and have become a staple in many kitchens due to their versatility and delicious flavor. These breadcrumbs are made from dried bread that has been finely ground and combined with various herbs and spices. The taste of Italian-style breadcrumbs is typically savory and slightly salty. The herbs and spices used in the mixture often include parsley, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and onion powder, among others. The result is a well-rounded flavor that can enhance many dishes.

In terms of texture, Italian-style breadcrumbs are typically delicate and dry. However, they have a crispy texture when baked or fried and can add a satisfying crunch to various dishes, especially when paired with Italian herbs or cheese. Italian-style breadcrumbs are great for breading chicken, fish, and vegetables. Meatballs stuffed with this breadcrumbs variety will have a delightful flavor and texture. Fried vegetables like zucchini or eggplant can be coated with breadcrumbs to make them crispy and delicious. 

And, of course, dishes like parmesan chicken or eggplant often rely on breadcrumbs to create the signature crispy coating. For parmesan chicken and eggplant (the veggie version of parmesan chicken), coat the chicken or eggplant slices in Italian breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese and then roast them in the oven until they become crispy.

Golden breadcrumbs with turmeric are a flavorful and versatile ingredient that pairs wonderfully with other earthy flavors. Turmeric is known for its slightly bitter taste, which works great with the breadcrumbs' nutty and crunchy texture. Adding turmeric gives these breadcrumbs a beautiful golden hue, making them visually appealing and delicious. The flavor of these breadcrumbs is complex and aromatic with a warm and slightly spicy note that lingers on the palate. The texture is crunchy and somewhat coarse, which adds a pleasant contrast to creamy or soft dishes. The golden breadcrumbs with turmeric are also a great source of fiber and an alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.

Golden breadcrumbs work best in various dishes, including stuffed mushrooms, casseroles, soups, stews, and salads. They can be used as a topping or a filler, adding flavor and texture to the dish. For stuffed mushrooms, golden breadcrumbs with turmeric can be mixed with cheese, herbs, and other seasonings to create a satisfying filling. Sprinkle golden breadcrumbs on casseroles to add a crunchy texture and a pop of color. In soups and stews, golden breadcrumbs can be used as a thickener or a garnish. In salads, they work best as a topping to add texture and flavor to the dish.

Cheese breadcrumbs are a delicious blend of two classic ingredients that bring out the best in each other. Mixed with finely grated cheese, typically parmesan or pecorino romano, these breadcrumbs result in a flavor-packed and extra crispy coating. When baked or fried, they form a golden crust on the outside and are slightly soft inside.

One of the most popular uses for cheese breadcrumbs is chicken parmesan. To use them in this recipe, coat chicken breasts with flour, egg, and cheese breadcrumbs before baking them in the oven. Another excellent use for cheese breadcrumbs is in cheesy garlic bread. Mixing them with butter to put on top of garlic bread gives you a crispy, cheesy, garlicky side dish or appetizer.

Cheese breadcrumbs are also a staple in fried cheese sticks. They enhance the flavor of mozzarella and offer you a gooey, cheesy, and crunchy snack that's perfect for dipping. Cheesy stuffed peppers can include a mixture of cooked rice, ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese breadcrumbs. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Lemon pepper breadcrumbs are a flavored variety made by combining fresh lemon zest with ground black pepper and toasted breadcrumbs, resulting in a tangy and zesty flavor that pairs well with savory dishes. One of the key benefits of using lemon pepper breadcrumbs is the extra layer of texture to dishes that might otherwise be lacking. In addition, the lemon pepper flavor adds a bright and refreshing note to the dish.

Lemon pepper breadcrumbs work best in baked chicken and fish dishes. They are also an excellent addition to casseroles, stuffing, and meatballs, diversifying taste and adding a pleasing crunch. Additionally, they can be used to make garlic bread, which pairs perfectly with pasta dishes, soups, or even a simple salad.

Lemon pepper breadcrumbs can be used for mac and cheese as a topping to create a slightly tangy crust. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs before baking, and let them brown in the oven for a few minutes until crispy. For baking or frying, coat the food you want to cook with the breadcrumbs before exposing it to heat.

Graham cracker breadcrumbs are perfect for making desserts, such as cakes, pies, and cookies. The finely ground graham crackers have a sweet, slightly nutty flavor and a crumbly texture that is perfect for making crusts. The texture of these breadcrumbs is also a crumbly and slightly grainy texture that provides a delightful crunch to any dessert crust.

Graham cracker breadcrumbs work best in desserts because of their unique texture and sweet flavor. When used in dessert crusts, the sweetness complements the flavors of the dessert filling but also helps bind the crust together, providing a sturdy base for the dessert. To use these breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sugar until they are well combined. Next, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish or pie pan, and bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Graham cracker breadcrumbs can also be sprinkled over ice cream or pudding or used as a coating for cheese dumplings. Slightly toasted and with some added sugar, they bring a delicious and sweet crunchiness that perfectly completes the soft texture of the dumplings.