Texas Toast
The moment I think of Texas Toast, I’m transported back to family gatherings filled with laughter and the irresistible smell of buttery, garlicky bread wafting through the air. Growing up, my grandmother would pull out her trusty baking sheet and start layering slices of thick, golden-brown bread, generously slathered in a rich garlic butter mixture. I can still hear the sizzle as it hit the hot oven, creating that perfect crispy crust while the center remained soft and fluffy. This wasn’t just a side dish; it was the star of the meal! Whether served alongside a hearty bowl of chili or enjoyed solo with a sprinkle of parsley, Texas Toast always made a memorable impression.
On chilly evenings, we’d gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and grabbing extra slices while trying to keep our hands clean. It was a delightful challenge, but the taste was always worth it. Each bite bursting with flavor! The secret? That heavenly garlic parsley butter that makes every mouthful a savory delight. The best part is how simple it is to make—perfect for any occasion, be it a casual dinner or a festive feast.
So, if you’re looking for a way to elevate your meal or just need a comforting snack, let’s dive into this classic recipe. You’ll love how easy it is to recreate that heartwarming experience at home!
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
250 kcal
7 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Blender, Baking Sheet, Oven
Why This Texas Toast Is a Winner
Perfect Flavor Combination
There’s something magical about the combination of butter, garlic, and parsley. The richness of the butter melds beautifully with the aromatic garlic, creating a flavor profile that elevates the humble bread to extraordinary heights. Plus, fresh parsley adds a lovely brightness that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel balanced.
Versatile Side Dish
Texas Toast isn’t just a side; it can be the centerpiece of your meal. It pairs exceptionally well with everything from soups to grilled meats, making it a versatile option for any menu. Imagine serving it alongside a fresh salad or a warm bowl of tomato soup!
Quick and Easy to Prepare
With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of Texas Toast in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by. Just a few minutes of your time can yield a delicious outcome that everyone will love.
Crispy Yet Soft Texture
The key to a great Texas Toast lies in its texture. Baking it at a high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. The contrast of textures makes it incredibly satisfying to eat. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!
Customizable to Your Taste
While the classic version is delectable, you can easily customize Texas Toast to suit your tastes. Add in some grated cheese before baking, or experiment with different spices and herbs. This flexibility allows you to make it your own!
A Family Tradition
As a personal favorite in many households, making Texas Toast can become a cherished family tradition. It’s an easy recipe to pass down to the next generation, creating lasting memories centered around delicious food and togetherness.
Texas Toast Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients for Texas Toast is essential for achieving that perfect flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients creates an unforgettable taste that you’ll want to savor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- French bread: The foundation of this dish, providing the perfect texture.
- Garlic: Freshly pureed garlic adds a robust flavor that elevates the toast.
- Salted butter: Essential for creating a rich, creamy spread.
- Parsley leaves: Fresh parsley brings a burst of color and freshness.
- 3-cheese blend: A mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and cheddar ensures a gooey, cheesy topping.
How to Cook Texas Toast

Cooking Texas Toast is a quick and enjoyable process. You’ll see how easy it is to bring this classic dish to life in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps!
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (207°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy crust. Make sure your oven is fully heated before putting the toast inside for the best results.
In a small bowl, combine garlic, butter, and parsley leaves. Stir them together until everything is well blended. The aroma of the garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
Slice the French bread into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick pieces. You want them thick enough to hold the toppings but not so thick that they won’t toast properly.
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Lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. It’s a little detail that goes a long way!
Using a brush or a spoon, generously apply the garlic butter mixture onto each slice of bread. Make sure to coat each piece evenly to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
Top the buttered bread with the 3-cheese blend. Be generous with the cheese, as it’ll melt beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey texture we all love.
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Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Once baked, remove the Texas Toast from the oven and let it cool for a minute. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Serve warm, either as a side dish or a tasty snack. Enjoy the crispy edges and soft center; it’s a delightful treat!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same punch.
- Adjust the cooking time: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the color of the bread.
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix and match different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Try gouda or feta for something different!
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many wonderful ways to adapt Texas Toast to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to get that crispy texture back.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices of unbaked Texas Toast. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
- Pairing: This toast pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or grilled meats. It’s versatile enough to complement any meal!
- Add toppings: Consider adding toppings like fresh tomatoes or avocado before baking for a delicious twist.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor.
Accompaniments for Texas Toast
- Tomato Soup: Pairing Texas Toast with a warm bowl of tomato soup is a classic combo. The toast adds heartiness to the soup.
- Salads: A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the Texas Toast.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve it alongside grilled chicken for a delightful dinner option. The toast makes a great accompaniment to the protein.
- Chili: It’s perfect for dipping into a rich bowl of chili. The flavors meld beautifully!
- Occasions: Ideal for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even game nights. It’s always a hit!
- Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy it during any season, but it’s especially comforting in colder months!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Texas Toast is a simple yet exceedingly flavorful dish that has a special way of bringing people together. It’s the perfect combination of crispy, buttery, and garlicky goodness that makes it irresistible. I encourage you to try it at home and experience the joy it can bring to your meals. You’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine!

Texas Toast
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Blender
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- 3-4 cloves garlic pureed
- 4 tablespoons salted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon parsley leaves chopped
- 1 cup shredded 3-cheese blend mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and cheddar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (207°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy crust. Make sure your oven is fully heated before putting the toast inside for the best results.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic, butter, and parsley leaves. Stir them together until everything is well blended. The aroma of the garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
- Slice the French bread into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick pieces. You want them thick enough to hold the toppings but not so thick that they won’t toast properly.
- Lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. It’s a little detail that goes a long way!
- Using a brush or a spoon, generously apply the garlic butter mixture onto each slice of bread. Make sure to coat each piece evenly to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Top the buttered bread with the 3-cheese blend. Be generous with the cheese, as it’ll melt beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey texture we all love.
- Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Once baked, remove the Texas Toast from the oven and let it cool for a minute. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Serve warm, either as a side dish or a tasty snack. Enjoy the crispy edges and soft center; it’s a delightful treat!
Notes
- Tip 1: The secret to the best garlic toast is in the garlic parsley butter—it’s what gives every bite that rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor. Make sure to coat each slice evenly for the ultimate taste.
- Tip 2: Always use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. Pureed garlic blends perfectly into the butter, enhancing each bite.
- Tip 3: For the cheese topping, try using a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
- Tip 4: Adjust cooking times based on your oven to avoid burning.
- Tip 5: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for that same delightful crunch.
