Cheesy Garlic Bread Toast is a crispy, buttery, and cheesy delight perfect for any occasion. This dish features crunchy bread infused with the rich flavors of garlic butter, topped with melted cheese that stretches with every bite. It makes a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or even a quick snack when you’re craving something savory and comforting. Whether served with a bowl of soup, pasta, or as a standalone treat, this cheesy garlic bread toast is always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Spread:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Toast:
- 4 slices of bread (French bread, baguette, sourdough, or regular sandwich bread)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything well until the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed in the butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a stovetop, heat a pan over medium heat.
- Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. If using thicker bread like French bread or baguette, cut them into halves for better coverage.
- Spread the garlic butter generously on one side of each bread slice. Ensure you cover the edges for a full-flavored bite.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered side of the bread.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy and slightly tangy flavor.
- If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
Oven Method:
- Place the prepared bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden-brown finish, switch the oven to broil mode and toast for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over medium-low heat.
- Place the bread slices (cheese side up) on the pan and cover with a lid.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with marinara sauce or a side of warm tomato soup.
- Pair it with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna for a complete meal.
- Drizzle some garlic aioli or ranch dressing for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
Calories and Nutrition
Per serving (1 slice of cheesy garlic bread toast):
- Calories: ~180-220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 7g
- Fats: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
(Note: Caloric value may vary based on the type of bread and cheese used.)
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Garlic Bread Toast is an easy yet irresistibly delicious recipe that never fails to impress. The combination of crispy, buttery toast, aromatic garlic, and gooey melted cheese creates a comforting dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!