Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it fully preheat. This temperature is perfect for creating a golden, crunchy exterior without drying the bread out.
Cut your crusty French bread or bread of choice into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking. If your bread is very fresh and soft, you can let the cubes sit out for about 30 minutes to dry slightly, which helps them crisp better.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
Add the bread cubes to the bowl with the oil and seasoning mixture. Gently toss until every cube is evenly coated. The parmesan will stick to the cubes, creating a delicious crust.
Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on your baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow the heat to circulate and crisp the croutons evenly.
Bake the bread cubes for 15-20 minutes, tossing or flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning. They should be golden brown and crunchy when done.
Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage.
