Homemade Easy Cheesy Texas Toast Garlic Bread – Golden, Buttery, and Irresistible
When the craving for something warm, buttery, and garlicky hits — something that pulls apart in a cheesy stretch and pairs perfectly with pasta, soup, or even just a cozy night in — this Homemade Easy Cheesy Texas Toast Garlic Bread is the answer.
Forget store-bought versions; this homemade version is faster, crispier, cheesier, and a hundred times more delicious. With thick slices of Texas toast brushed with garlic butter, topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan, and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re serving it alongside spaghetti and meatballs, dunking it into tomato soup, or enjoying it straight off the baking sheet (no judgment here), this recipe is simple comfort at its best.
The Story Behind the Bread
Growing up, there was always one thing that could get everyone running to the kitchen — that unmistakable scent of garlic butter melting in the oven. My mom used to whip up “quick garlic bread” whenever pasta was on the menu. Sometimes she’d add a sprinkle of cheese on top, and that turned an ordinary side into something magical.
Over time, I learned that the secret to restaurant-style Texas toast garlic bread isn’t complicated — it’s all about the ratio of butter to garlic, a thick, hearty bread, and the perfect broil to make it golden and crisp without drying it out.
This version takes it up another level with a luscious cheese topping that melts into every crevice. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and dangerously addictive — you might want to make extra!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf thick-cut Texas toast bread (8–10 slices)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, olive oil, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Prepare the bread: Arrange Texas toast slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of garlic butter on each slice, making sure to reach all the corners.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the bread, then top lightly with grated parmesan.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the toast are golden brown.
- Optional broil: For extra crispness, broil on high for 1–2 minutes — watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
- Serve: Sprinkle with extra parsley and serve hot. Perfect for dipping into marinara sauce or serving alongside your favorite pasta dish.
Homemade Easy Cheesy Texas Toast Garlic Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Mix butter, garlic, olive oil, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread garlic butter evenly on Texas toast slices.
- Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake 8–10 minutes until golden and bubbly. Broil 1–2 minutes for crispness.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Use thick bread: Texas toast is key — it holds up to the butter and cheese without getting soggy.
- Fresh garlic + garlic powder combo: The fresh garlic gives punchy flavor, while garlic powder adds depth and even coverage.
- Customize your cheese: Mix mozzarella with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for more flavor.
- Add a kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for spicy garlic bread.
- Make ahead: You can butter and top the bread earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Variations
- Three-Cheese Texas Toast: Use mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone for an ultra-rich, melty combination.
- Herb Lover’s Garlic Bread: Add Italian seasoning or fresh basil to the butter for a fragrant twist.
- Cheesy Jalapeño Texas Toast: Add sliced jalapeños before baking for a bold, spicy version.
- Vegan Garlic Bread: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use dairy-free cheese — just as satisfying!
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy garlic bread is the perfect partner to:
- Spaghetti, lasagna, or baked ziti
- Tomato basil soup or creamy mushroom soup
- Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp scampi
- A quick snack or appetizer — just serve with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping
It’s also great for gatherings — slice each piece in half for easy finger food that disappears fast from the tray.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices individually in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or use the air fryer for extra crispiness. Avoid microwaving — it makes the bread soggy.
FAQ
Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of Texas toast?
Yes! Just adjust the baking time to 5–7 minutes since thinner slices cook faster.
What cheese melts best?
Mozzarella gives the best stretch, but parmesan adds salty flavor. A mix of both is perfect.
Can I make this with garlic powder only?
Absolutely. Use 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a milder, even flavor.
Can I make this in a toaster oven or air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and edges crisp up.
Can I add toppings?
Definitely. Try cooked bacon bits, sliced tomatoes, or chopped green onions for a twist.
Fun Fact: The Texas Toast Legend
Texas toast originated in the 1940s when a Dallas restaurant accidentally ordered bread that was too thick for their toaster. Instead of wasting it, they buttered and grilled it — and a new legend was born.
Today, it’s the foundation for countless Southern-inspired sides, and when you add melted cheese and garlic, it becomes a meal in itself. This homemade version channels that same spirit — a little mistake turned into
