Buttery Garlicky Texas Toast

This cheesy Texas toast transforms ordinary white bread into a buttery, garlicky side dish that pairs perfectly with everything from pasta to soup. The combination of crispy edges and gooey melted mozzarella makes it impossible to eat just one slice.

I started making this Texas toast when my kids were going through picky eating phases. It became the one item on the dinner table everyone would devour without complaint, and now it's requested at least twice a week in our house.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: The foundation of flavor that creates those crispy golden edges and rich taste. Always use unsalted to control the salt level yourself
• Garlic powder: Provides that classic garlic bread flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic. Look for a fresh, aromatic powder for best results
• Salt and pepper: Enhances all the other flavors. Use kosher salt for better control
• Thick white bread: The canvas for our masterpiece. Look for unsliced bread you can cut into 1-inch slices for the authentic Texas toast experience
• Shredded mozzarella: The star that creates that irresistible cheese pull. Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded varieties
• Italian seasoning: Adds herbal notes that complement the garlic and cheese. A quality blend should have basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Broiler:

Turn your oven's broiler setting to high and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source. This creates the perfect environment for quick cooking and browning without drying out the bread. Allow at least 5 minutes for the broiler to reach full temperature before proceeding.

Create the Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with garlic powder, salt, and pepper until completely incorporated. The butter should be truly softened not melted for the best spreading consistency. If your butter is too cold, you might tear the bread while spreading. Taking time to mix thoroughly ensures even flavor distribution throughout each slice.

Prepare the Bread:

Using a pastry brush, generously coat both sides of each bread slice with the garlic butter mixture. Be especially thorough reaching the edges, which tend to brown faster. Place the buttered slices on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each piece to allow for even browning.

First Broil:

Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for approximately 1 minute, then flip each slice with tongs and broil the second side for another minute. Watch closely during this step as broilers vary in intensity and bread can go from golden to burnt in seconds. Look for a light golden brown color before flipping.

Add Cheese and Final Broil:

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over one side of each toast, followed by a light dusting of Italian seasoning. Return to the broiler for approximately 30-45 seconds, just until the cheese melts and begins to bubble slightly. Remove immediately once the cheese is melted to prevent burning.

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The garlic butter is the secret weapon in this recipe. I once tried to shortcut by using a store-bought garlic spread, and while it was okay, it simply didn’t match the flavor of our homemade version. There's something about the freshly mixed butter that creates that perfect balance of richness and garlic punch that makes everyone reach for seconds.

Make Ahead Options

If you're planning a big dinner or just want to be prepared, you can make components of this Texas toast ahead of time. The garlic butter mixture can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using. You can also complete the first broil on both sides earlier in the day, then store the toast at room temperature covered with a clean kitchen towel. When ready to serve, simply top with cheese and complete the final broil. This method is particularly helpful when hosting dinner parties.

Perfect Pairings

Texas toast elevates nearly any meal, but it particularly shines alongside pasta dishes. The bread's buttery crispness provides textural contrast to saucy pastas like spaghetti and meatballs or fettuccine Alfredo. It's also excellent served with tomato soup, chili, or as the foundation for incredible homemade pizza toast. For a complete Italian-American experience, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese and butter.

Flavor Variations

While classic mozzarella creates that perfect cheese pull, this recipe welcomes endless variations. Try using a blend of cheeses like cheddar and monterey jack for a sharper flavor profile. For heat lovers, add red pepper flakes or a thin slice of jalapeño under the cheese before broiling. Herb enthusiasts might enjoy adding fresh minced basil or chives after broiling. You can even transform it into a meal by topping with sliced tomatoes and bacon before adding cheese for a BLT-inspired toast that satisfies as a quick lunch.

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This Texas toast is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or family night. Enjoy the cheesy goodness with your favorite meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What's the best type of bread to use for Texas toast?

Thick-cut white bread (about 1-inch thick) works best for Texas toast as it provides the perfect sturdy base to hold the butter and cheese. Brioche or sourdough can also be delicious alternatives that hold up well under the broiler.

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella offers that classic stretchy texture, you can substitute or combine it with cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan for different flavor profiles. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.

→ How do I prevent my Texas toast from burning?

Keep a close eye on your toast while broiling, as it can burn quickly. Position the rack 6-8 inches from the heat source, and limit broiling time to about 1-2 minutes per side. The second broil (after adding cheese) should take less than a minute until the cheese is just melted and bubbly.

→ Can I make Texas toast ahead of time?

For best results, Texas toast should be served immediately after preparation to enjoy the crispy texture and melty cheese. However, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until needed. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading.

→ What can I serve with cheesy Texas toast?

Cheesy Texas toast pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or grilled meats. It's also perfect alongside marinara sauce as an appetizer, or topped with diced tomatoes and fresh basil for a more substantial snack.

→ Can I add other toppings to my Texas toast?

Yes! Get creative with toppings like diced tomatoes, crispy bacon bits, sliced olives, or fresh herbs. You can also spread a thin layer of marinara sauce before adding the cheese for a pizza-style variation.