Hazelnut Free Buttered Breadcrumbs
Buttered breadcrumbs are one of those quietly brilliant finishing touches that can elevate a bowl of pasta, a roasted vegetable, or a simple soup into something that feels genuinely special. The magic here is all in the skillet — butter melts down until the foam clears, then the crumbs go in and slowly toast to a deep, nutty golden color that smells absolutely incredible. Fresh thyme gets stirred in off the heat so it stays fragrant, and a little chopped parsley adds a pop of color if you want it. For anyone navigating tree nut allergies or sensitivities, this kind of topping can be a minefield at restaurants, where hazelnut-based crumbles or mixed nut toppings often sneak onto dishes without much warning. Made at home with just butter, plain breadcrumbs, and a few herbs, you know exactly what's in the bowl. The result is crunchy, savory, and rich without any of the guesswork — and it keeps things simple enough that you'll want to sprinkle these on just about everything.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the foam subsides and the butter is fully liquid, about 1 minute.
- 2
Add the breadcrumbs and stir to coat evenly in the butter. Spread into an even layer and cook, stirring every 30–45 seconds, until the crumbs are deep golden and smell nutty, 5–7 minutes. Watch closely, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!