Parmesan Garlic Toast Recipe

Instructions How To Make Parmesan Garlic Toast

• Preheat the oven to 450F.
• Line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Put the bread slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Heat the oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
• Brush the bread with the garlic oil using a pastry brush (or just drizzle the garlic oil over the bread using a spoon).
• Sprinkle the bread with Parmesan cheese.
• Put the baking sheet with bread in the oven on a top rack. Bake for 10 minutes or until the top of the toast is golden brown.

Your mouth will water while this toast is baking – it smells so good!  Parmesan garlic toast is so addictive, you just can’t stop eating it :) This toast goes perfectly with the tomato soup with chicken and corn.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Parmesan Garlic Toast alongside a warm bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup Made with Tomato Paste for a comforting meal.
• Pair it with a Fresh Green Salad with Lettuce, Tomato, and Parmesan for a light and satisfying lunch.
• Use it as a side dish for pasta dinners like Healthy Spaghetti Squash, Homemade Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta and Meat Sauce, or Creamy Homemade Alfredo Pasta.
• Turn it into a party appetizer by cutting each slice into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
• Enjoy it as a standalone snack—it’s perfect with a cup of Warm Tea with Fresh Lemon and Sweet Honey or Classic Turkish Coffee!

Tips For Success

• Choose the Right Bread: While any bread works, sturdier varieties like sourdough or French bread will hold up better and deliver a crunchier texture. Thinner slices can bake too quickly, so keep an eye on them.
• Don’t Burn the Garlic: When sautéing garlic, be sure to only cook it for 30 seconds. Overcooked garlic can turn bitter and affect the flavor of the toast.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can impact melting. Grating fresh Parmesan ensures better flavor and texture.
• Distribute Evenly: Brush or drizzle the garlic oil over the bread in an even layer to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
• Watch the Oven: All ovens bake differently, so check the toast after 8 minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown. A golden, crispy texture is the goal.
• Serve Immediately: Parmesan Garlic Toast is best enjoyed fresh from the oven when it’s hot, crispy, and aromatic.

Variations And Substitutions

• Different Cheeses: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey twist. Each cheese brings its unique flavor to the toast.
• Add Herbs: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, or dried oregano over the bread before baking for an herby kick. You could even try rosemary for a fragrant touch.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic oil for a little heat.
• Use Butter Instead of Olive Oil: For a richer flavor, replace olive oil with melted butter infused with garlic.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Use whole wheat bread for added fiber or gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.
• Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest over the bread before baking for a hint of brightness that complements the garlic and cheese.
• Vegan Option: Replace Parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast, and use olive oil as directed for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Allow the Parmesan Garlic Toast to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled toast in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen.
• Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the toast on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: Place the toast in a single layer in the air fryer basket and reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. This method ensures the bread stays crispy.
• Microwave Reheating: While not ideal for maintaining crispiness, you can reheat the toast in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use pre-minced garlic for convenience. However, fresh garlic delivers a stronger and more aromatic flavor that elevates the toast. If using pre-minced garlic, make sure it’s sautéed briefly to release its flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare and serve Parmesan Garlic Toast fresh for optimal crispiness and flavor. If needed, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake the toast just before serving.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

This recipe works with any bread, but sturdy options like French bread, baguette, or sourdough yield the best results. Avoid very thin slices as they may burn quickly in the oven.

Can I make this toast in an air fryer instead of an oven?

Yes, you can! Arrange the bread slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.

Is there a way to make this toast dairy-free?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste.

How do I prevent the toast from becoming soggy?

Make sure to apply the garlic oil evenly without over-saturating the bread. Also, bake the toast on a high rack in the oven to ensure proper browning and crispiness.

Can I add other toppings to this toast?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with toppings like chopped fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.