Here’s a quick and easy Cheesy Texas Toast recipe that’s crispy, cheesy, and perfect as a side dish or snack:
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of thick-cut Texas toast (or thick-sliced white bread)
- 1/2 cup vegan butter (or regular butter), softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (use vegan cheddar for a plant-based version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or use a vegan alternative)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you have a broiler option, you can use that for extra crispiness at the end.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Lay the Texas toast slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the Garlic Butter:
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each slice of bread, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the buttered side of each slice of bread. If you’re using Parmesan, sprinkle it on top of the cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden and crispy.
- Optional: Broil for Extra Crisp:
- If you like a more crispy, golden top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley (if desired). Cut into smaller pieces and serve immediately!
Tips:
- For Extra Flavor: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even some Italian seasoning for a herby twist.
- Make it Vegan: Use vegan butter and vegan cheese options for a completely dairy-free version.
- Customize: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for some spice!
This cheesy Texas toast is a perfect companion to pasta dishes, soups, or even just as a snack with a side of marinara sauce. Enjoy!