Texas Toast
Texas Toast is a thickly sliced bread toasted to golden-brown perfection with a rich, buttery, and garlicky spread. It features a crispy, buttery crust with a soft, fluffy interior, making it a perfect side for barbecue, soups, and many other dishes. Simple to prepare yet elevates any meal with its hearty texture and irresistible flavor.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 slices
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Not Gluten-Free
Base Ingredients
- Thick sliced bread (white or sourdough, at least 1 inch thick) – 4 slices
- Butter (real, softened) – 4 tablespoons
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Optional Herbs & Variations
- Fresh parsley (chopped) or dried Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan (for cheesy Texas toast) – 1/4 cup
- Minced fresh garlic – 1 clove (for herbed garlic butter)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme – 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes – pinch (optional for spicy kick)
- Honey or maple syrup – 1 tablespoon (optional for sweet and savory twist)
- Plant-based butter or olive oil spread (for vegan version) – 4 tablespoons
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, soften the butter and combine it with garlic powder, salt, and any optional herbs or spices you choose to use, such as parsley or Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended to create a flavorful spread.
- Spread Generously on Bread: Take your thick slices of bread and spread the butter mixture evenly on both sides. This ensures a crispy texture and rich flavor in every bite.
- Toast to Golden Perfection: Cook the bread on a hot skillet over low to medium heat or place on a baking sheet under the broiler. Toast until both sides turn golden brown and develop a crispy crust, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve Warm: Serve the Texas Toast immediately while it’s still warm and buttery. This is when it tastes the best and provides the most satisfying eating experience.
Notes
- Choose thick bread slices (at least one inch) for the authentic hearty texture; thinner slices won’t have the same effect.
- Use softened butter for even spreading and better flavor coverage.
- Toast on low to medium heat to avoid burning and promote even browning.
- A cast iron skillet is preferred for consistent heat distribution and perfect crust formation.
- Customize toppings sparingly to keep the buttery essence front and center.
- Optional garnishes include fresh parsley or chopped green onions for added color and freshness.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freeze uncooked prepared slices on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag; keep frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in a toaster oven or under the broiler to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Texas Toast, thick toast, buttery garlic toast, crispy bread, side dish, easy toast recipe, buttery bread, garlic bread variation