This Cheesy Texas Toast recipe brings all the rich, comforting flavors I love in a classic American side. Thick slices of buttery bread are slathered with garlicky goodness, then topped with melty cheese that gets perfectly golden in the oven. Whether I’m serving it with pasta, soup, or just enjoying it as a savory snack, it’s always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and easy this recipe is to throw together, and it never fails to impress. It’s the ultimate comfort food with its crispy edges, gooey cheese, and rich garlic flavor. I often turn to it when I need a crowd-pleaser or a fast side that feels indulgent. I also enjoy how versatile it is—great with soups, grilled meats, or even on its own.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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6 slices Texas toast bread (or thick-cut bread)
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100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
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2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried parsley)
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150 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
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50 g (1/2 cup) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
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Salt, to taste
Directions
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I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a small bowl, I mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
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I spread this garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice.
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I lay the bread slices on a baking sheet with the buttered side facing up.
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Then I sprinkle mozzarella (and cheddar if I’m using it) evenly over the top.
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I bake for 8–10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
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For extra crispiness, I sometimes switch to broil for 1–2 minutes—watching closely to avoid burning.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 3 to 6 people depending on portions. It takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to bake, so the total time from start to finish is around 15 minutes.
Variations
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I sometimes swap in provolone or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
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If I want even more flavor, I add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before baking.
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For a spicy kick, I mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, I let the toast cool completely, then wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through. I avoid microwaving since it tends to make the toast soggy.
FAQs
What kind of bread works best if I can’t find Texas toast?
I use any thick-cut white bread, like a country loaf or brioche. The thicker the better for holding all that buttery cheese.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare everything up to the point of baking, then refrigerate the slices on a tray. When I’m ready, I just pop them into the oven straight from the fridge.
Is it okay to use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Absolutely. I use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if I don’t have fresh cloves on hand, and it still delivers that great garlicky flavor.
Can I freeze Cheesy Texas Toast?
Yes, I freeze the prepared but unbaked toast. Once frozen solid, I store them in a freezer-safe bag. When baking from frozen, I just add a few extra minutes in the oven.
How do I keep the toast from getting soggy?
I make sure not to overload it with butter or cheese, and I always bake it on a wire rack or preheated baking sheet to help it crisp up.
Conclusion
Cheesy Texas Toast is one of those go-to recipes I never get tired of making. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether I’m feeding a group or just craving something cheesy and warm, this toast hits the spot every time.
Print
Cheesy Texas Toast Recipe
Cheesy Texas Toast is a quick and comforting side dish made with thick slices of garlic-buttered bread topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfectly golden and crisp, it’s ideal with pasta, soups, or as a savory snack.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3–6 servings
Ingredients
6 slices Texas toast bread (or thick-cut bread)
100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried parsley)
150 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
50 g (1/2 cup) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, parsley, and salt.
- Spread the garlic butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place slices on a baking sheet, buttered side up.
- Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese (if using).
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely.
Notes
- Use provolone or pepper jack for variation in flavor.
- Add grated Parmesan before baking for extra depth.
- Mix red pepper flakes into the butter for a spicy version.
- Bake on a preheated baking sheet or wire rack to prevent sogginess.
- Freeze unbaked toast and bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg