Texas Toast Pizza Delight

This satisfying Texas toast pizza has revolutionized my quick lunch game. The crispy, buttery bread combined with melty cheese and savory toppings creates the perfect bite-sized pizza experience in just minutes using your air fryer.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something fast but still satisfying for my hungry teenagers. Now it has become our go to Friday afternoon snack that everyone can customize to their liking.

Ingredients

• Texas toast: Thick slices that create the perfect crispy yet fluffy base
• Pizza sauce: Brings authentic pizza flavor in seconds
• Mozzarella cheese: The stretchy melty goodness that makes any pizza irresistible
• Pepperoni: Adds that classic pizza flavor and slight spiciness
• Garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering
• Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs that elevate the flavor profile
• Olive oil spray: Helps achieve that perfect golden crispiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 - Preheat Your Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 375°F and allow it to fully heat up for about 3 minutes. This ensures your Texas toast will start cooking immediately when placed inside, creating that crispy exterior.

Step 2 - Season The Texas Toast:

Take your frozen or thawed Texas toast slices and lightly spray both sides with olive oil. The thin coating helps achieve golden perfection. Sprinkle each side with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, gently pressing the seasonings into the bread so they adhere properly.

Step 3 - Initial Toast Cooking:

Place your seasoned Texas toast in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Air circulation is crucial here. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until you notice the edges beginning to turn golden brown but not fully crisp yet.

Step 4 - Apply Your Toppings:

Remove the partially cooked toast carefully as it will be hot. Work quickly to spread about a tablespoon of pizza sauce on each slice, covering from edge to edge but not too thickly. Distribute your shredded mozzarella evenly across each slice, and arrange four pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.

Step 5 - Final Cooking Phase:

Return your topped Texas toast to the air fryer and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Watch closely during the last minute as cheese can go from perfectly melted to overly browned quickly. The cheese should be completely melted with some bubbly golden spots.

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The Italian seasoning is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once skipped it thinking the garlic powder would be enough, but the flavor was noticeably lacking. That blend of oregano, basil and thyme truly transforms this from toast with toppings to an authentic pizza experience.

Customization Options

This Texas toast pizza base welcomes endless topping variations based on what you have available. For meat lovers, try cooked crumbled sausage, diced ham, or bacon bits. Vegetable options work beautifully, too—broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can add nutrition and flavor. Just remember to precook any vegetables that release moisture to prevent sogginess.

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For cheese variations, try mixing in sharp cheddar for tanginess, provolone for smoothness, or even a sprinkle of parmesan on top for an extra savory finish. The standard mozzarella provides that classic stretch, but experimenting with cheese blends creates exciting flavor profiles.

Storage and Reheating

While these Texas toast pizzas are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwave reheating as it makes the toast soggy.

For meal prep, you can prepare several slices up to the topping stage and refrigerate them covered for up to 8 hours before the final air frying. This makes them perfect for quick after-school snacks or impromptu gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

These Texas toast pizzas pair wonderfully with simple sides to create a complete meal. A fresh green salad with Italian dressing balances the richness perfectly. For a heartier option, serve alongside tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food pairing.

I like to set up a build-your-own Texas toast pizza bar when hosting casual gatherings. Prepare the initial toasted bread and provide various sauces, cheeses, and toppings so everyone can create their perfect combination before the final cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the toast stays crispy?

Pre-toast the Texas toast for 3-4 minutes in the air fryer before adding toppings for extra crispiness.

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, you can substitute Texas toast with thin slices of French bread or sourdough for different textures and flavors.

→ What toppings can I use besides pepperoni?

Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, or any of your favorite pizza toppings.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Mix in cheddar, provolone, or even Parmesan with mozzarella for a unique cheesy taste.

→ What if I don't have an air fryer?

You can bake the Texas toast in a preheated oven at 375°F for similar results, adjusting cook time as needed.