When you want something buttery, crispy, and slathered in melted cheese, Cheesy Texas Toast is the ideal side dish. It’s easy to make, and it brings a delightfully garlicky, cheesy crunch to anything you’ll eat. Whether you bring it to the table with a big bowl of pasta, a chunky soup, or simply tear off pieces and pop them in your mouth, you’ll make this recipe a household favorite.

It begins with a luscious garlic butter spread, slathered in great gobbets on thick slices of white or French bread. A quick toast under the broiler will give the bread a golden, crisp edge that’s practically begging to be covered with that glorious cheese. A handful of shredded mozzarella lends that gooey, stretchy goodness, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning makes for just the tinge of savory herbs in each bite.

Watch the broiler closely, because this toasty treat can turn from golden to crispy in the blink of an eye! Within minutes, you’ll be pulling from the oven hot, cheesy Texas toast that nobody will leave behind on the table. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to sprinkle a little extra comfort on your dinner spread.

Would you like to save this?

Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and Simple: The whole thing takes less than 10 minutes, making this a no-fuss side dish or snack everyone will want.
Cheesy Goodness: Gooey mozzarella and the tried-and-true combo of garlic and butter give every bite richness and satisfaction.
For Dipping: Pair with marinara sauce or your favorite pasta for complete dipping.
Customizable: Sub in different cheeses or add more herbs to suit your taste.

Key Ingredients

Bread: This recipe is best with thick-cut white or French bread, which can stand up to the broiler and should soak up the buttery garlic spread to perfection.
Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which tends to have anti-caking agents. You can even stir in a bit of Parmesan for added flavor.
Garlic Powder: If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, use an extra ½ teaspoon or fresh minced garlic.
Italian Seasoning: A combination of dry oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary lends a lovely herbaceous note that complements the cheese and garlic beautifully.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Broiler

Use only the broiler and the heat: Preheat the broiler.

Step 2: Make the Butter Spread

Combine the softened butter and garlic powder in a small bowl.
Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

With a pastry brush, paint the butter mixture on both sides of each bread slice.
Assemble the slices on an ungreased baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 4: Broil the Bread

Put the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for about 1 minute on each side, or until the bread is light golden brown.
Stir it to ensure it does not burn.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle the top of each slice with shredded mozzarella cheese and a dash of Italian seasonings.
Put the bread back in the oven and, under the broiler, bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Heat the Cheesy Texas Toast in the oven according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Serve warm and dig into the crispy, garlicky goodness alongside your favorite pasta or as a delectable side!

Serving Suggestions

Perfect with Pasta: This cheesy Texas toast is the best sidekick to spaghetti, lasagna, or any pasta dish with a heavy tomato sauce.
Dip into Soups: Serve with bowls of creamy tomato soup, minestrone, or even chicken noodle soup for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Snack Attack: Tear the toast into smaller chunks for a cheesy starter or game-day nibble.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store: Leftover toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days.
To reheat: Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to get the crispness back, or reheat in a toaster oven.
Freezing: Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag for freezing for 1 month. Reheat from frozen under the broiler until hot.

Variations

Garlic Parmesan Texas Toast: Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan to the garlic butter mixture before spreading it on the bread for added cheesy, salty goodness.
Herb Butter: Stir in ½ teaspoon dried basil or dried parsley with the butter mixture for a more herbal note.
Cheese Blend: A blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone will give you a richer cheese topping with a sharper taste.
Spicy Twist: Before broiling, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes to give a spicy kick to the dish that balances the cheese’s creaminess.

Enjoy your Cheesy Texas Toast with all your favorite dishes!