If you’re craving a snack or side that’s bursting with flavor and melts in your mouth, this Cheesy Texas Toast with Parmesan and Oregano Recipe is your new best friend. Thick, buttery slices of Texas toast are slathered with a heavenly blend of melted butter, Parmesan, and aromatic oregano, then loaded up with gooey mozzarella and provolone cheeses. It’s crispy on the outside yet irresistibly soft and cheesy inside, making it perfect for sharing or treating yourself to some seriously comforting flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet vital to delivering that rich, cheesy goodness with just the right balance of herbs and butter. Each one plays an important role in making your toast taste absolutely divine.
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted): The base that adds richness and helps the herbs and cheese adhere perfectly to the bread.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creamy cheeses beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle layer of savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Brings a fragrant herbal note that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 cup mozzarella: Melts evenly for that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves on cheesy toast.
- 6 slices provolone: Adds a mellow, slightly smoky flavor and an extra cheesy layer.
- 6 slices Texas toast: The thick, sturdy bread that holds all the toppings while toasting up crisp and golden.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional garnish): A fresh pop of color and mild earthiness to finish the toast beautifully.
How to Make Cheesy Texas Toast with Parmesan and Oregano Recipe
Step 1: Prep Options for Toast
If you like your Texas toast with an extra crunch, lightly toast the bread before adding any toppings. This step is optional but it really helps to give the toast a satisfying crispness. Skip it if you prefer your bread softer and cheesier.
Step 2: Make the Flavorful Butter Mixture
Melt the butter, then stir in the grated Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder until all the flavors are well combined. This mixture is where the magic starts, infusing every bite with buttery, cheesy, and herbal goodness.
Step 3: Arrange and Spread the Butter Blend
Lay the Texas toast in a flat, single layer on an air fryer basket or baking sheet. Spread the seasoned butter mixture evenly over each slice so no spot is left behind. This ensures consistent flavor and richness throughout.
Step 4: Add Layers of Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over each slice. Then, top each with a slice of provolone for extra melt and flavor complexity. This two-cheese combo gives the toast its ooey-gooey, irresistible texture.
Step 5: Cook Until Perfectly Melted
Place the toast in an air fryer preheated to 350°F for 5 minutes, or pop it in a convection oven at 375°F for 6 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a little golden on top.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Sprinkle the optional dried parsley on top to add a bit of fresh color and mild herbal brightness. Serve immediately for the best melty experience that’s sure to delight everyone.
How to Serve Cheesy Texas Toast with Parmesan and Oregano Recipe
Garnishes
While the toast is flavorful on its own, a light dusting of fresh or dried parsley brightens the dish visually and balances the rich cheese flavors beautifully. A tiny drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Texas Toast pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy broccoli cheddar. It’s also fantastic alongside a fresh garden salad to add crunch and lighten up your meal. Think of it as your go-to companion for any comfort food feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the toast into fun finger-sized pieces for a party snack or layering the toast under open-faced sandwiches for an indulgent twist. You can also experiment by adding toppings like caramelized onions, cooked bacon bits, or a dash of hot sauce right before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. For best texture, avoid refrigerating since the bread can become chewy instead of crisp.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the toast slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When ready, thaw briefly before reheating to preserve that perfect crust.
Reheating
Reheat your Cheesy Texas Toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Texas toast is thick and ideal, you can try other sturdy breads like sourdough or Italian loaf. Just make sure the slices are thick enough to hold all the cheese and toppings without becoming too soggy.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheeses that melt well. Keep the seasonings the same to maintain that fantastic herby, garlicky flavor.
Can I add extra toppings like bacon or vegetables?
Definitely! Crispy bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers make excellent additions. Just add them before cooking so the flavors meld perfectly with the cheese.
What’s the best cheese combination for this recipe?
Using mozzarella and provolone together offers a wonderful combo of gooey stretch and mild, creamy flavor. Parmesan in the butter mix adds sharpness. Feel free to experiment with cheddar or fontina if you want a different twist.
How do I prevent soggy toast?
Lightly toasting the bread beforehand helps keep it crispy under all the cheese and butter. Also, avoid stacking slices on top of each other while cooking, and serve promptly to enjoy maximum crunch.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing side, the Cheesy Texas Toast with Parmesan and Oregano Recipe is a delicious winner every time. It’s super simple yet packed with layers of buttery, cheesy, and herbal flavors that feel like a warm hug for your taste buds. Give it a try and watch this become your go-to comfort food in no time!
Print
Cheesy Texas Toast with Parmesan and Oregano Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (6 slices)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Texas Toast with Cheese are a quick and delicious snack or side dish featuring thick slices of bread topped with a flavorful garlic-Parmesan butter blend, melted mozzarella, and provolone cheese. Perfectly crispy on the edges with gooey melted cheese, they can be prepared easily using an air fryer or oven.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
Cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella
- 6 slices provolone
Bread
- 6 slices Texas toast (or other thick slice of bread)
Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Optional Toasting: Lightly toast the bread before applying seasonings if you prefer a crunchier texture. This step is optional; skipping it will keep the bread softer.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: Melt the butter and stir in the grated Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder until well combined, creating a flavorful butter spread.
- Arrange Bread: Place the bread slices in a single flat layer in your air fryer basket or on a baking sheet if using an oven.
- Apply Butter Mixture: Spread the prepared butter mixture evenly over each slice of bread for a rich and savory base.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over each slice, then top each with a slice of provolone for a deliciously cheesy finish.
- Cook: Air fry the toast at 350°F for 5 minutes or bake in a convection oven at 375°F for 6 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges are golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with dried parsley for a touch of color and flavor, then serve warm.
Notes
- Toasting the bread before applying the butter mixture gives a crunchier texture but is not necessary.
- This recipe can be cooked in an air fryer or convection oven interchangeably with minor timing adjustments.
- Use thick slices of bread like Texas toast for best results to hold the cheese topping.
- For a sharper flavor, substitute or add other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
