Pizza Toast Melts are an Italian-inspired/American comfort food dish suitable for lunch, snack, or light dinner. They are easy to make with medium heat intensity, taking approximately 18–20 minutes total to prepare and cook for 4 servings.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of sandwich bread
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup finely diced bell pepper
- ¼ cup sliced black olives, optional
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese, optional
- A pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a toaster oven, use the same temperature. For a crispier finish, place the baking tray in the oven while it preheats.
- Arrange the 8 slices of bread on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over one side of each slice.
- Turn the bread slices over so the unbuttered side is facing upward. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce over each slice.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the sauce. Add cheddar if desired for a stronger, richer cheese flavor.
- Divide the pepperoni, bell pepper, onion, and black olives among the slices. Keep toppings relatively light so the bread remains crisp.
- Sprinkle each toast with dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder. Add black pepper and red pepper flakes if desired. Sprinkle a small amount of Parmesan over the top for an extra savory finish.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 8–10 minutes until the cheese has completely melted, the edges of the bread are golden brown, and the toppings are hot. For an extra-crispy finish, switch the oven to broil/grill on high for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Cut each toast into halves or triangles and serve warm.
Notes
Use sturdy bread like thick sandwich bread, sourdough, or Italian-style bread. Don't overload the toast to maintain a balance between crisp bread and gooey toppings. Shred your own cheese when possible for better melting. Watch the broiler closely to prevent burning. Variations include Classic Pepperoni, Veggie, Chicken, Spicy, and Four-Cheese versions. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days and reheated in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
