Cheesy Texas Toast: A Simple and Delicious Side Dish

Cheesy Texas Toast is a savory, buttery, and garlicky bread topped with melted cheese that complements countless dishes. This recipe is loved for its simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether served alongside pasta, soups, or grilled meats, this toast elevates any meal with its comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of Texas toast or thick-sliced bread
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and salt until well combined.
3. Evenly spread the garlic butter over one side of each slice of bread, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
4. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan over the buttered side of the bread.
5. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. For extra crispiness, turn the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Remove the toast from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 6 slices, ideal for serving 4-6 people as a side dish.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Cheesy Toast: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.
Herbed Cheese Blend: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried parsley and oregano for a fresher taste.
Different Cheese Combinations: Substitute mozzarella and cheddar with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Loaded Texas Toast: Add toppings like cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms before baking for a heartier version.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version of this recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Leftover cheesy Texas toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To retain the crispiness, reheat the toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the prepared toast (before baking) on a baking sheet, then transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular bread instead of Texas toast?
   Yes, you can use any thick-sliced bread, such as sourdough or French bread, as a substitute.
2. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   You can skip it or replace it with Romano or Asiago cheese for a similar sharp flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the bread with butter and cheese, then refrigerate or freeze it until ready to bake.
4. How do I prevent the bread from becoming too greasy?
   Use softened butter rather than melted butter, and avoid overloading with cheese.
5. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Absolutely! Substitute with gluten-free bread to make the recipe gluten-free.
6. Can I add garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
   Yes, use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for a milder garlic flavor.
7. What dishes pair well with cheesy Texas toast?
   It goes perfectly with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or grilled chicken.
8. Can I make this on a stovetop?
   Yes, cook the prepared bread on a non-stick skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the bottom is crispy.
9. What’s the best way to cut Texas toast?
   Slice the loaf into thick slices (about ¾ to 1 inch thick) to achieve the classic texture.
10. How do I make it healthier?
    Use whole-grain bread, low-fat cheese, and reduced-sodium butter for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Cheesy Texas Toast is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to prepare and universally loved. Its golden crust, melted cheese, and garlic butter base make it an irresistible side dish for any meal. With endless customization options, this recipe can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary need. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a quick snack, Cheesy Texas Toast is a simple yet satisfying choice.

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