Cheesy Texas Toast

Introduction: Why You’ll Love Cheesy Texas Toast

Cheesy Texas Toast isn’t just bread with cheese—it’s a culinary comfort food legend. Known for its thick-cut slices, crisped edges, garlicky butter flavor, and melty cheese topping, this dish is a go-to side for BBQs, pasta, soups, or even as a standalone snack.

Originally made famous by diners in the South, Texas Toast differs from regular garlic bread by its extra thickness, generous buttery spread, and its ability to hold up under loads of melted cheese. Let’s dive into this golden masterpiece.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Spread:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)

• 2–3 cloves garlic, finely minced or crushed

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried parsley)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• Optional: ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick

For the Toast:

• 8 slices of Texas Toast bread
  (or any thick-cut white bread, about ¾” to 1″ thick)

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional: Fresh basil or chives for garnish

🔄 Feel free to adjust the cheese blend to include Monterey Jack, provolone, or a Mexican blend for variation.

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🔪 Equipment Needed

• Oven or air fryer

• Mixing bowl

• Baking sheet (with parchment or foil)

• Butter knife or spatula

• Optional: pastry brush

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🍞 Step 1: Choosing the Right Bread

What Makes Texas Toast Unique?

• It’s sliced twice as thick as standard sandwich bread.

• The thickness means it crisps on the outside but stays soft and chewy inside.

• It can handle lots of butter and cheese without falling apart.

If you can’t find pre-sliced Texas Toast, look for:

• Brioche loaves

• Thick Italian or French loaves

• Homemade white sandwich bread

Slice into ¾” to 1” thick pieces.

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🧈 Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a bowl, mix:

• ½ cup softened butter

• Minced garlic

• Garlic powder

• Salt

• Chopped parsley

• (Optional) red pepper flakes

Mix thoroughly until smooth. You can use a fork or a handheld whisk.

Pro Tip:

Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the garlic flavor infuses into the butter.

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🧄 Step 3: Assemble the Toast

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lay out the bread slices on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.

3. Using a butter knife or brush, generously spread the garlic butter on one side of each slice.

4. Sprinkle a blend of cheeses on top:

   • Start with mozzarella (for meltiness)

   • Add cheddar (for sharp flavor)

   • Finish with Parmesan (for salty crispness)

🧀 Don’t skimp—the cheese should cover nearly every inch of the toast.

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🔥 Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Oven Instructions:

• Place the tray in the middle rack.

• Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• For an extra crispy top, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely!

Air Fryer Instructions:

• Preheat to 375°F.

• Air fry in batches (single layer only) for 6–7 minutes.

• Broil function not necessary—air frying naturally crisps edges.

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🧂 Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven:

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil

• Optional: dust lightly with more Parmesan

• Let it cool for a minute—hot cheese can burn!

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🍝 Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Texas Toast goes beautifully with:

• Spaghetti and meatballs

• Lasagna or baked ziti

• Tomato basil soup

• BBQ ribs or pulled pork

• Chicken Alfredo or creamy pastas

• Caesar salad for a lighter contrast

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🔄 Variations and Twists

1. Bacon Lovers’ Toast

• Add crumbled cooked bacon on top of the cheese before baking.

2. Four Cheese Fantasy

• Combine mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan.

3. Spicy Jalapeño Toast

• Add thin jalapeño slices before baking for a spicy crunch.

4. Pesto Cheesy Toast

• Spread pesto under the cheese layer for a fresh, herby twist.

5. Meat Lover’s Mini Pizza Toast

• Add pepperoni or sausage crumbles for a mini pizza effect.

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🧊 Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

• Wrap cooled toast in foil or place in an airtight container.

• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until warm and crispy.

• Air Fryer: 350°F for 4 minutes.

• Microwave: Avoid if possible—it softens the bread.

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🍴 Nutritional Info (Per Slice, Approximate)

Note: Values vary based on bread type and cheese quantities.

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👨‍🍳 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

• Use fresh garlic for stronger flavor; garlic powder gives milder coverage.

• Don’t under-bake—toast should be golden and cheese fully melted.

• For the crispiest bottom, place the toast directly on a preheated baking sheet.

• Add a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra depth.

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💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the toast and refrigerate it unbaked. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use vegan cheese or butter?

Absolutely—swap for plant-based alternatives. Results will vary, but still tasty!

Q: What’s the difference between this and garlic bread?

Texas Toast is thicker, butterier, and cheesier. It also retains more softness in the center.

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🍽 Final Thoughts

Cheesy Texas Toast is simple, satisfying, and universally loved. Whether served next to a heaping bowl of spaghetti, layered into a brunch platter, or eaten as a late-night snack, this cheesy bread checks all the boxes: crispy edges, soft center, and gooey melted cheese.

Once you master this version, you can easily riff on it endlessly with toppings, spice levels, and types of cheese. Just one warning: it’s very hard to eat only one slice.