Pulled out some stale bread from pantry. My mother-in-law says it’s wasteful not to use it, but it looks bad to me. What should I do?

The bread feels damp or sticky

It tastes off or sour

Note: Even if just one slice is moldy, play it safe—toss the whole loaf. Mold spores can spread invisibly throughout the bread.

🥘 Smart Ways to Use Stale Bread

If the bread is just stale but still safe, your mother-in-law is onto something: there are plenty of delicious ways to give it new life. Here are some tried-and-true options:

1. Homemade Croutons

Cube the bread, toss with olive oil and seasoning, and bake until crispy. Perfect for soups and salads.

2. Breadcrumbs

Pulse stale bread in a food processor for homemade breadcrumbs. Store them in the freezer for later use.

3. French Toast or Bread Pudding

Stale bread is actually better than fresh for these recipes because it soaks up custard without getting soggy.

4. Strata or Savory Casserole

Combine cubes of stale bread with eggs, cheese, veggies, and bake for a hearty breakfast or dinner.

5. Panzanella Salad

This Italian salad combines bread cubes with tomatoes, onions, and a tangy vinaigrette—stale bread soaks up the flavors beautifully.

🧼 Food Safety First

When in doubt, throw it out. No recipe is worth risking your health over questionable bread. Always err on the side of caution if you’re unsure whether it’s moldy or not.

🗑️ Bottom Line

Your mother-in-law is right that stale bread doesn’t have to be wasted—but only if it’s safe to eat. If it’s just dry, get creative and make something delicious. If it shows signs of spoilage or mold, toss it and don’t feel bad about it.

Tip: To prevent future waste, freeze leftover bread before it goes stale. You can toast slices straight from the freezer or use them in recipes later.