If you are craving a quick, satisfying snack that hits all the right spots, this Pizza Toast Recipe is just what you need. It perfectly combines the comforting crunch of toasted bread with the rich flavors of pizza toppings, making it an ideal treat whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. With gooey mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and fresh veggies all piled high, this recipe is as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on these simple ingredients sets you up for a flavor-packed Pizza Toast Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the crispy texture of Texas toast to the mouthwatering melted cheese and vibrant, fresh vegetables that brighten every bite.
- Texas toast bread: Thick slices that provide the perfect sturdy base for all the toppings without getting soggy.
- Prepared pizza sauce: Adds that classic tangy tomato flavor which binds everything together.
- Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible, gooey cheesy layer.
- Pepperoni slices: Bring a savory, slightly spicy kick to each slice of toast.
- Button mushrooms: Offer earthy undertones and a nice tender texture when cooked.
- Green bell pepper: Adds a subtle crunch and sweet freshness to balance the rich toppings.
- Red onion: Gives a mild sharpness and vibrant color to brighten the overall taste.
- Fresh basil leaves: Provide a fragrant herbal note that lifts the entire dish at the very end.
How to Make Pizza Toast Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Toast the Bread
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with nonstick spray to prevent the bread from sticking. Place your thick slices of Texas toast on the sheet and bake them for about 3 to 4 minutes. This first toasting will give the bread a light crispness that holds up against all those flavorful toppings later.
Step 2: Add Toppings
Once your bread is nicely toasted, flip the slices over and spread a generous tablespoon of your prepared pizza sauce on each piece. Next, sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Add 3 pepperoni slices per toast, then scatter a few slices of button mushrooms along with some diced green bell pepper and red onion. Finish by topping each slice with an additional 2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese to create that irresistible cheesy crown.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Return your topped bread to the oven for another 5 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese as it melts; you want it to bubble and gain a few golden brown spots without burning. This step melds the flavors together and ensures every bite is a luscious experience.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
After baking, remove the pizza toast from the oven and immediately sprinkle julienned fresh basil leaves over the top. This finishing touch adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal aroma that perfectly complements the savory toppings. Now, your Pizza Toast Recipe is ready to dazzle your taste buds.
How to Serve Pizza Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding a dusting of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an extra flavor boost. Fresh basil, as called for in this recipe, is an essential garnish as it adds brightness and that authentic pizza flair.
Side Dishes
Serve your Pizza Toast alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or pair it with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. The fresh veggies in the salad or the creamy soup will balance the richness of the cheesy toast perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the pizza toast into bite-sized squares to serve as easy finger food at parties. You can also offer a variety of toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even pineapple on the side for your guests to customize their own slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover pizza toast, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days and still taste great when reheated.
Freezing
This Pizza Toast Recipe can be frozen for up to one month. Wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat pizza toast in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this Pizza Toast Recipe?
Absolutely! While Texas toast works perfectly due to its thickness and sturdiness, you can use any sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian bread. Just adjust baking times slightly to prevent burning or undercooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the pepperoni and add more vegetables such as olives, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts. The combination of sauce, cheese, and fresh veggies still makes a delicious pizza toast full of flavor.
Can I prepare Pizza Toast Recipe in advance?
You can pre-toast the bread and chop ingredients ahead of time to speed up assembly. However, for the best texture, bake with toppings close to serving time.
What is the best cheese to use for pizza toast?
Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese is ideal due to its melting properties and creamy flavor. You can experiment with adding a bit of parmesan or cheddar for a different twist.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Pizza Toast Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily increase the heat by adding spicy pepperoni, red pepper flakes, or even jalapeños to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the lowdown on this scrumptious Pizza Toast Recipe, there’s no excuse not to make it your next go-to snack or casual meal. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect when you need something cheesy and satisfying without fuss. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again!
Print
Pizza Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy and delicious Pizza Toast recipe is perfect for a quick snack or light meal. Featuring thick Texas toast topped with pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and fresh basil, it delivers all the flavors of a classic pizza in a convenient open-faced sandwich form. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe yields 6 servings of savory, melty goodness.
Ingredients
Bread and Sauce
- 6 slices thick Texas toast square sandwich bread
- 6 tablespoons prepared pizza sauce (1 tablespoon per slice of bread)
Cheese
- 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (approximately â…“ cup per slice)
Toppings
- 18 slices pepperoni (3 per slice of bread)
- â…“ cup sliced button mushrooms
- â…“ cup diced green bell pepper
- â…“ cup diced red onion
- 4 fresh basil leaves, julienned
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Bread: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray, then arrange the slices of Texas toast in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for about 3 to 4 minutes until the bread just starts to toast but isn’t fully browned yet.
- Add Toppings: Remove the toasted bread from the oven and turn each slice over. Spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce evenly on each slice. Next, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese per slice. Arrange 3 slices of pepperoni on top, followed by a few slices of button mushrooms, and a sprinkle of diced green bell pepper and red onion. Finally, add an additional 2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese on top of each slice.
- Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven. Bake the prepared pizza toasts for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted completely and develops some golden brown spots, indicating a nice bubbly top.
- Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the julienned fresh basil leaves over the hot pizza toasts for a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick homemade pizza toast!
Notes
- You can customize toppings according to your preference such as olives, jalapeños, or other vegetables.
- Using thick Texas toast helps hold the toppings without becoming soggy during baking.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, you can toast the bread a little longer before adding toppings.
- Leftover pizza toasts can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
