Breadcrumbs
Dried, ground bread used to bind, coat, or top dishes. Standard fine breadcrumbs pack denser than panko — don't substitute 1:1 between the two without adjusting for texture.
Used for
- breading
- binding meatballs
- casserole toppings
- stuffing
In the kitchen
- toast for a crisper topping
- mix with butter or oil before topping
- pulse stale bread in a food processor to make your own
Picking it at the store
- Making your own from stale bread is nearly free and often better than the canister kind, which can taste stale itself
- Season plain breadcrumbs yourself — pre-seasoned varieties are often heavy on salt and dried herbs
Related terms
Tastease's cooking wizard explains steps like this one in plain language, right when you need it — while you're actually cooking. Shop smarter, cook with confidence.
Try Tastease free →