Cheesy Texas Toast Garlic Bread

Equipment

• Air Fryer (any size, but ensure the bread fits in a single layer)
• Small mixing bowl
• Butter knife or spatula
• Aluminum foil (optional, for easy cleanup)

Ingredients

• 4 slices thick-cut Texas Toast (store-bought or homemade, about 1-inch thick)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for the top)
• Optional: A pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter (Intensity: Low)

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix with a fork or spatula until a smooth, well-blended paste forms. Time: 2 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer (Intensity: Medium)

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes . Preheating is crucial for ensuring the bread gets crispy on the bottom without burning the cheese on top. Note: If your air fryer does not have a preheat function, simply run it empty at 350°F for 3 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Toast (Intensity: Low)

1. Lay the four slices of Texas toast flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous, even layer of the garlic butter mixture over the top of each slice, covering the entire surface edge-to-edge. Time: 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese (Intensity: Low)

1. In a separate bowl, toss together the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Pile the cheese mixture evenly onto each buttered slice. Pat the cheese down gently so it adheres to the butter. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top of each slice. Time: 1 minute.

Step 5: First Air Fry Session (Intensity: High)

1. Carefully place the slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 4 minutes . Intensity: High heat, direct convection. This initial phase melts the butter and starts crisping the bottom of the bread.

Step 6: Check and Rotate (Intensity: Medium)

1. Open the air fryer and check the toast. The cheese should be melted but not yet browned. If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can tent the slices loosely with aluminum foil. If the bread is not browning on the bottom, you can flip the slices carefully with tongs (cheese side up) for the last minute. Time: 30 seconds.

Step 7: Final Crisp (Intensity: High)

1. Continue cooking at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 2-3 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly, golden brown in spots, and the edges of the bread are crispy. Keep a close eye on it—cheese can go from perfect to burnt in under a minute. Total Air Fry Time: 6-7 minutes.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish (Intensity: Low)

1. Using tongs, carefully remove the toast from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Let it rest for 1 minute (the cheese will be molten hot). Sprinkle with additional fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 320 kcal · Protein: 11g · Fat: 21g · Carbohydrates: 24g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 12g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 2g · Sodium: 480mg