Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a quick and tasty side dish or snack, look no further than Cheesy Texas Toast. This crispy, cheesy delight is perfect for anything from family dinners to game day gatherings. With its buttery garlic flavor and gooey cheese topping, this toast is sure to become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
- The perfect balance of crispy and cheesy goodness.
- A versatile side that pairs with countless dishes.
- Customizable with your favorite cheese blends or herbs.
- Great for feeding a crowd at parties or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of thick-sliced bread (like Texas Toast)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bread if not pre-sliced, and arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and salt. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Toast
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over each slice of bread. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the buttered bread. Top with a sprinkle of dried parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
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 slight twist, try using a blend of your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan. Learn about cheese options here.
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works as a substitute.
- For a crispier texture, broil the toast for an additional 1-2 minutes. Learn more about broiling here.
Variations
- Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Spicy Jalapeño: Top with sliced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
- Herb & Garlic: Mix fresh basil and oregano into the butter for a herbaceous flavor.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or butter knife
- Oven
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Cheesy Texas Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
Suggested Pairings
- Serve alongside a hot bowl of tomato soup for a classic combo.
- Pairs beautifully with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna.
- Great as a base for open-faced sandwiches or topped with a fried egg for breakfast.
Pro Tips
- Ensure the butter is well-softened to spread evenly on the bread. Learn how to soften butter fast here.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- If your toast is browning too quickly, tent with foil during the baking process.
FAQ
- Can I use regular bread instead of Texas Toast? Yes, just be sure to adjust the baking time as regular bread may brown faster.
- What cheese is best for a gooey texture? Mozzarella is excellent for that classic gooey melt, but feel free to mix with other cheeses.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the garlic butter and cheese mixture in advance and assemble before baking.