Hey y’all! If you’re a fan of gooey cheese and buttery, crunchy bread, then this Cheesy Texas Toast recipe is going to become your new favorite. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or even as a quick snack, this delightful dish is both versatile and incredibly satisfying. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- This Cheesy Texas Toast is a quick and easy way to satisfy any cheese craving.
- Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a midnight snack.
- Only requires a few simple ingredients that you likely have on hand.
- The crispy edges and gooey center create the perfect texture.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and spices.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of thick-sliced bread (preferably Texas toast bread)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the bread slices on the sheet.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and Italian seasoning. Spread a generous amount of garlic butter on each slice of bread.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the buttered bread slices.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, place the bread under a broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking. Learn more about broiling here.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or provolone for a unique flavor.
- To make it extra garlicky, add an additional clove of garlic.
Variations
- Spicy Jalapeño Cheesy Toast: Add sliced jalapeños before baking for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Cheesy Toast: Mix fresh herbs like basil and oregano into the cheese.
- Cheesy Bacon Toast: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the cheese before baking.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small mixing bowl
- Spatula
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Cheesy Texas Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warm and crispy.
Suggested Pairings/Serving Recommendations
This Cheesy Texas Toast pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, and salads. Try serving it alongside a big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs or a hearty tomato soup.
Pro Tips
- Use day-old bread for the crispiest texture.
- Ensure the butter is softened for easy spreading and even flavor distribution.
- Combine cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Learn about cheese types here.
FAQ
Can I use regular sliced bread instead of Texas toast?
Yes, but the texture will be less thick and crispy. Consider toasting it lightly before adding toppings.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute with your favorite gluten-free bread.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the toast up until the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.