Toaster Oven Cheesy Garlic Toast
This crispy and cheesy garlic toast is the perfect snack or side dish, made effortlessly in your toaster oven. Enjoy the irresistible combination of garlic, butter, and melted cheese on warm, toasted bread.
Why This Works in a Toaster Oven
Using the toaster oven ensures the cheese melts perfectly while the bread gets a crispy edge without needing to heat a full-size oven.
Toaster Oven Setup
- Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
- Setting: Bake
- Convection: No
- Rack Position: Middle
- Pan Size: 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm)
- Batch Size: 4 slices
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Rotate Pan: Yes, halfway through
- Ready When: The cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
💡 No convection setting? You're all set — this recipe uses the regular Bake setting, so any toaster oven can make it, with or without a convection button.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter
- 1/4 cup (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (3 g) fresh parsley, chopped
Cheese Toast
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment
- Toaster oven
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) toaster oven tray
- Parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat the toaster oven to 375°F on the Bake setting.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley to make the garlic butter.
- Spread the garlic butter evenly over each slice of bread.
- Place the bread slices on a 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) toaster oven tray lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread slices.
- Place the tray in the toaster oven on the middle rack.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even browning.
- The toast is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Grab a slice and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
How to Know It's Ready
The cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
Troubleshooting
- If the bread edges brown too quickly, lower the temperature by 25°F and extend the baking time slightly.
- For uneven melting, make sure the cheese is spread evenly and not piled too high in the center.
- If the bottom of the bread is too soft, place the tray on the upper rack for the last 2 minutes of baking.
- If the garlic butter isn't spreading well, ensure the butter is fully softened before mixing.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover garlic toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Add slices of tomato or pepperoni before baking for a heartier snack.
- Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic for a milder flavor.
- Try using whole grain or sourdough bread for added texture.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Make sure to spread the garlic butter evenly and don't overdo it with the cheese to prevent sogginess.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread in advance, then add cheese and bake when ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter and cheese substitutes for a plant-based version.