Pro Tips for Success
Creating the ultimate cheesy garlic toast requires just a little bit of technique for the best results.
Pre-Toast for Extra Crunch: If you prefer a crispier base, lightly toast your plain bread slices for just a minute or two before adding the butter and cheese.
Edge-to-Edge Coverage: When spreading your garlic butter and sprinkling your cheese, make sure you go all the way to the crusts so the edges do not burn.
Watch Carefully While Baking: Keep a very close eye on the toast during the final two minutes in the air fryer or oven, as cheese can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt very quickly!
Storage and Reheating
You will be thrilled to know that leftover cheesy garlic toast stores incredibly well.
Keep any leftover slices in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the fridge for up to three days.
Can it be frozen? Absolutely! You can freeze the prepared, unbaked slices on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for a quick snack later.
When you are ready to reheat, skip the microwave, as it will make the thick bread incredibly mushy and tough.
The best way to reheat is to pop the slices right back into a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder? Yes, you can absolutely use minced fresh garlic in the butter mixture! However, garlic powder often disperses more evenly and prevents any harsh, bitter bites of burnt raw garlic from ruining your toast.
Is an air fryer or a regular oven better for this recipe? Both methods yield fantastic results. An air fryer is usually faster and creates a crispier bottom, while a convection oven is perfect if you need to bake a large batch on a sheet pan all at once.
Can I use day-old bread? Day-old bread from the bakery discount rack is actually perfect for this recipe! The slightly drier texture of older bread absorbs the garlic butter beautifully without becoming soggy.
Texas Toast With Cheese
Ingredients
- 6 slices Texas toast or other thick-sliced bread
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley optional garnish
Instructions
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Prep the Bread: Arrange the bread slices in an air fryer basket or on a baking sheet in a flat, single layer. (Optional: Lightly toast the bread first if you prefer a crunchier crust).
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Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and garlic powder until well mixed.
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Butter the Toast: Spread the savory butter mixture evenly over the top of each slice of bread, going all the way to the edges.
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Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered toast. Top each slice of bread with one full slice of provolone cheese.
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Bake / Air Fry: Place in an Air Fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes, OR bake in a convection oven at 375°F for 6 to 7 minutes. Cook just until the cheeses are completely melted and slightly bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove carefully, garnish with dried parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot!
