Texas Toast with Cheese

Texas Toast with Cheese

There’s a reason this dish is a weeknight hero. It takes everything you love about classic garlic bread and dials it up with a blanket of melted, gooey cheese. It’s the perfect partner for a big bowl of pasta, a cozy soup, or just as a snack all on its own.

This version uses a mix of mozzarella for that irresistible stretch and parmesan for a sharp, savory kick . Making it at home means you get to skip the frozen box and enjoy a slice that’s perfectly golden and bubbling in about 15 minutes .


Ingredients

  • 1 loaf (about 6-8 slices) thick-cut Texas toast or other thick white bread

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano (optional, for a little herby flavor)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 6 slices provolone cheese (or substitute with extra mozzarella)

  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt, pepper, and dried parsley to taste


Directions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup .

  2. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and oregano (if using). Mix until everything is well combined .

  3. Assemble the Toast: Arrange the thick bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over each slice . Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the bread, then top each slice with a piece of provolone cheese .

  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 6-7 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown .

  5. Finish and Serve: For an extra golden top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning . Garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley and serve immediately .


Expert Tips

  • Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Mixing grated Parmesan into the butter spread adds a wonderful savory depth that you don’t get from mozzarella alone .

  • Customize the Cheeses: While the provolone and mozzarella combo is fantastic, feel free to use whatever you have on hand. A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Gouda would be delicious .

  • Air Fryer Option: This recipe works perfectly in an air fryer! Just arrange the slices in the basket and air fry at 350°F for about 5 minutes .

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the toasts (without baking) and freeze them. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 375°F for 15-17 minutes .


Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or bake at 350°F for a few minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy .


What to Serve With This Dish

  • A classic spaghetti and meatballs dinner .

  • A hearty bowl of tomato soup or chili .

  • A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

  • It’s also perfect on its own as a quick snack or appetizer .


Final Thoughts

This Texas Toast with Cheese is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. It’s buttery, garlicky, and loaded with cheese—everything you could want in a comforting side dish. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen as it is in mine.

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