Cheesy Texas Toast is the perfect side dish when you’re craving something buttery, crispy, and loaded with melted cheese. It’s quick to make and adds a deliciously garlicky, cheesy crunch to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a big bowl of pasta, a hearty soup, or just enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
The magic starts with a simple garlic butter spread that’s slathered generously on thick slices of white or French bread. After a quick toast under the broiler, the bread develops a golden, crisp edge that’s just begging to be topped with cheese. A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella adds that gooey, stretchy goodness, while a dash of Italian seasoning gives each bite a hint of savory herbs.
Keep an eye on the broiler, as this toasty treat can go from perfectly golden to crispy very quickly! In just a few minutes, you’ll have hot, cheesy Texas toast that’s sure to disappear from the table in no time. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you want to add a little extra comfort to your dinner spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes, making it an easy side dish or snack that everyone will love.
Cheesy Goodness: Melty mozzarella and the classic combination of garlic and butter make every bite rich and satisfying.
Perfect for Dipping: Serve alongside marinara sauce or your favorite pasta for the ultimate dipping experience.
Customizable: Use different cheeses or add extra herbs to match your taste preferences.
Key Ingredient
Bread: Thick-cut white bread or French bread works best for this recipe, as it holds up well under the broiler and absorbs the buttery garlic spread beautifully.
Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. Feel free to mix in a little Parmesan for extra flavor.
Garlic Powder: If you love a stronger garlic flavor, you can add an extra ½ teaspoon or use freshly minced garlic.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary adds a nice herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with the cheese and garlic.
Instructions
Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven to the broiler setting and let it heat up.
Make the Butter Spread: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Bread: Using a pastry brush, spread the butter mixture on both sides of each bread slice. Arrange the slices on an ungreased baking sheet in a single layer.
Broil the Bread: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for about 1 minute per side, or until the bread is light golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the top of each slice with shredded Mozzarella cheese and a dash of Italian seasoning. Return the bread to the oven and broil just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Serve the Cheesy Texas Toast warm and enjoy its crispy, garlicky goodness with your favorite pasta or as a tasty side!
Serving Suggestions
Perfect with Pasta: This cheesy Texas toast is the ultimate companion for spaghetti, lasagna, or any pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce.
Dip into Soups: Serve alongside bowls of creamy tomato soup, minestrone, or even chicken noodle soup for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Snack Attack: Cut the toast into smaller pieces for a cheesy appetizer or game-day snack.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to regain the crispy texture, or use a toaster oven to reheat.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen under the broiler until hot.
Variations
Garlic Parmesan Texas Toast: Mix ¼ cup grated Parmesan into the garlic butter mixture before spreading it on the bread for an extra cheesy and salty flavor.
Herb Butter: Add ½ teaspoon dried basil or dried parsley to the butter mixture for a more herbaceous flavor.
Cheese Blend: Try using a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone for a richer cheese topping with a slightly sharper flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before broiling for a spicy kick that balances the creamy cheese.
Cheesy Texas Toast: Buttery, Garlicky, and Loaded with Melted Mozzarella
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for pasta night or as a standalone snack. Thick slices of bread are brushed with garlic butter, toasted, and topped with melty mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Mix the softened butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Brush both sides of each slice of bread with the butter mixture and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
Broil the bread for 1 minute on each side, or until light golden brown.
Sprinkle one side of each slice with shredded mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning, then broil again until the cheese is melted. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Notes
Keep a close watch while broiling to prevent burning. Serve with your favorite pasta or enjoy on its own!