Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven to the broiler setting and let it heat up.
Make the Butter Spread: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Bread: Using a pastry brush, spread the butter mixture on both sides of each bread slice. Arrange the slices on an ungreased baking sheet in a single layer.
Broil the Bread: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for about 1 minute per side, or until the bread is light golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the top of each slice with shredded Mozzarella cheese and a dash of Italian seasoning. Return the bread to the oven and broil just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Serve the Cheesy Texas Toast warm and enjoy its crispy, garlicky goodness with your favorite pasta or as a tasty side!
Serving Suggestions
Perfect with Pasta: This cheesy Texas toast is the ultimate companion for spaghetti, lasagna, or any pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce.
Dip into Soups: Serve alongside bowls of creamy tomato soup, minestrone, or even chicken noodle soup for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Snack Attack: Cut the toast into smaller pieces for a cheesy appetizer or game-day snack.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to regain the crispy texture, or use a toaster oven to reheat.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen under the broiler until hot.
Variations
Garlic Parmesan Texas Toast: Mix ¼ cup grated Parmesan into the garlic butter mixture before spreading it on the bread for an extra cheesy and salty flavor.
Herb Butter: Add ½ teaspoon dried basil or dried parsley to the butter mixture for a more herbaceous flavor.
Cheese Blend: Try using a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone for a richer cheese topping with a slightly sharper flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before broiling for a spicy kick that balances the creamy cheese.