Introduction
Cheesy Texas Toast is a bold, comforting side dish that pairs thick-cut bread with rich butter, garlic, and a generous layer of melted cheese. Crispy on the outside and soft in the center, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that instantly elevates any meal.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Texas toast originated in the United States as a thicker slice of white bread designed to be grilled or toasted without burning. Adding garlic butter and cheese transformed it into a Southern and Tex-Mex–adjacent staple, commonly served alongside barbecue, pasta, soups, and classic comfort foods.
Ingredients Quantity
Texas toast bread – 8 slices
Unsalted butter – ½ cup, softened
Garlic powder or minced garlic – 1 to 2 teaspoons
Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon
Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Optional Additions
Parmesan cheese for extra sharpness
Italian seasoning or oregano
Red pepper flakes for heat
Bacon bits or chopped jalapeños
A light drizzle of garlic oil after baking
Tips for Success
Use room-temperature butter for easy spreading.
Blend cheeses for the best melt and flavor.
Toast on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup.
Broil briefly at the end for extra golden cheese—watch closely.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Spread butter mixture evenly over each slice of Texas toast.
Place slices on a baking sheet, buttered side up.
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly on top.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until bread is crisp and cheese is melted.
Optional: broil 1–2 minutes until lightly browned.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Description
Each slice delivers a crunchy, buttery base topped with stretchy, melted cheese and savory garlic flavor. It’s rich, satisfying, and impossible to resist.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per slice:
Calories: 210–250
Fat: 13–16 g
Carbohydrates: 18–22 g
Protein: 7–9 g
Sodium: moderate to high
Conclusion
Cheesy Texas Toast is simple, bold, and endlessly comforting. With just a few ingredients, it turns ordinary bread into a memorable side dish.
Recommendation
Serve alongside pasta, barbecue, soups, or salads. It also makes a great base for sliders or open-faced sandwiches.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Rich and cheesy foods are best enjoyed intentionally. Pair this toast with fresh vegetables or lighter mains and savor each slice—comfort food tastes even better when enjoyed in balance.