There’s something magical about thick-cut Texas toast layered with garlic butter and blanketed in bubbling cheese. The edges turn perfectly crisp, the center stays soft and buttery, and every bite delivers that irresistible cheese pull.
This is one of those easy, semi-homemade recipes that tastes like you spent way more time than you actually did. And once you make it, plain garlic bread just won’t compare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ⏱ Ready in under 15 minutes
- 🧄 Simple pantry ingredients
- 🧀 Crispy edges + gooey melted center
- 🔥 Oven or air fryer friendly
- 💛 Perfect alongside pasta, grilled meats, or soups
That moment when the cheese bubbles and turns lightly golden? Absolute magic.
What It Tastes Like
Imagine:
- Warm, buttery thick-cut bread
- Savory garlic and oregano
- Nutty Parmesan blended into melted butter
- Stretchy mozzarella
- Creamy provolone
It’s rich, cheesy, garlicky, and completely irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 6 slices provolone
- 6 slices Texas toast (thick-cut bread)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Oven or air fryer
Simple tools. Big flavor.
How to Make Texas Toast With Cheese
Step 1: Optional Pre-Toast
For extra crunch, lightly toast the bread before adding toppings. Skip if you prefer a softer center.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder. Stir until fully blended.
The aroma alone smells incredible.
Step 3: Assemble
Lay bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet or air fryer basket.
Spread the butter mixture evenly across each slice, edge to edge.
Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over each piece.
Top each slice with one slice of provolone.
Step 4: Bake or Air Fry
Air Fryer:
350°F for 5 minutes
Convection Oven:
375°F for 6–7 minutes
Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just beginning to brown.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with dried parsley if desired. Let rest 1–2 minutes before serving.
Ingredient Variations & Additions
Make It Extra Garlicky
Add ½ teaspoon minced fresh garlic to the butter mixture.
Add Heat
Sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
Switch the Cheese
- Monterey Jack
- Sharp cheddar
- Italian cheese blend
Make It Herb-Forward
Add dried basil or Italian seasoning.
What to Serve With It
Texas Toast With Cheese pairs perfectly with:
- Spaghetti or baked ziti
- Lasagna
- Grilled steak
- Chicken Parmesan
- Hearty soups
- Fresh garden salad
It instantly upgrades even the simplest pasta night.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Toast
- Use thick-cut bread for the best texture
- Spread the butter evenly to the edges
- Watch closely during the last minute to prevent over-browning
- Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded
- Let it rest briefly before serving for cleaner slices
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best crispness
- Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture crispy
General Info
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
- Servings: 6 slices
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cuisine: American comfort food
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular sandwich bread?
Yes, but it will be thinner and softer. Thick Texas toast gives the best texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the slices and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Assemble and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What makes it “Texas” toast?
Texas toast refers to thick-cut white bread, which creates a hearty, buttery base.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Slice)
- Calories: 290
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Sodium: Varies depending on bread and cheese
Buttery. Cheesy. Garlicky. Ready in minutes — and guaranteed to disappear fast. 🧀✨
