Pizza is a beloved dish that has inspired countless variations over the years. From classic Margherita to loaded supreme, there’s a pizza style to suit every palate. One exciting twist on the traditional pizza is the Texas toast pizza, which uses thick slices of buttery Texas toast as the base instead of the usual pizza crust. This variation adds a unique texture and flavor profile to the dish, making it a fun and satisfying alternative.
Texas toast pizza is not only easy to prepare but also allows for a great deal of creativity in terms of toppings and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or looking for a creative snack, Texas toast pizza is sure to be a hit. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making Texas toast pizza, from selecting ingredients to baking and serving.
See Also: How to Make Pita Bread Pizza
The Basics of Texas Toast Pizza
What is Texas Toast?
Texas toast is a style of bread that originated in the Southern United States. It is characterized by its thick slices of white bread that are buttered and toasted until golden brown. The thickness of the bread and the buttered exterior create a rich, crispy texture that is perfect for a variety of uses, including as a pizza base.
The Appeal of Texas Toast Pizza
Using Texas toast as a pizza base offers several advantages. The thickness of the toast provides a sturdy foundation that holds up well under the weight of various toppings. Additionally, the buttered and toasted exterior adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the cheese and other pizza ingredients. The result is a unique and delicious twist on the traditional pizza that is both satisfying and versatile.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make Texas toast pizza, gather the following ingredients. While these are the basics, you can adjust quantities and types based on your preferences and dietary restrictions.
Texas Toast
Store-bought Texas Toast: The easiest option, available in most grocery stores. Look for pre-buttered slices that are thick and hearty.
Homemade Texas Toast: If you prefer to make your own, you can use thick slices of white or Italian bread. Butter both sides of the bread and toast them in a skillet until golden brown.
Pizza Sauce
Store-bought Pizza Sauce: Convenient and quick, available in various flavors. Choose a brand you like or one with added herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Homemade Pizza Sauce: For a more personalized touch, make your own sauce using canned tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, and a bit of olive oil. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Cheese
Shredded Mozzarella: The classic choice for its melting properties. Provides a gooey, cheesy texture that is a staple of most pizzas.
Other Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors and textures.
Toppings
Proteins: Choose from a variety of options such as pepperoni, sausage, ham, or cooked chicken. You can also use leftovers or pre-cooked meats for convenience.
Vegetables: Add flavor and texture with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, or spinach. Feel free to use fresh or pre-cooked vegetables depending on your preference.
Others: Get creative with additional ingredients like pineapple, bacon, or even gourmet options such as sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes.
Seasonings
Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Adds a classic pizza flavor to your dish.
Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the pizza.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a bit of heat for those who enjoy a spicier pizza.
Preparing the Texas Toast
Proper preparation of the Texas toast is crucial to achieving the best pizza base. Follow these steps to ensure your toast is ready for the toppings.
Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the Texas toast to become crispy without burning. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the toast inside.
Arrange the Toast
Place the Texas toast slices on a baking sheet. If you’re using store-bought toast, arrange the slices in a single layer, leaving space between them to ensure even cooking. If you’re using homemade toast, make sure the slices are evenly spaced as well.
Pre-toast (Optional)
For extra crunch, you can pre-toast the Texas toast before adding the pizza toppings. Place the slices in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly crispy. This step is optional but can help to enhance the texture of the final product.
Assembling the Pizza
Once the Texas toast is prepared, it’s time to assemble your pizza. This is where you can get creative and customize the pizza to your liking.
Spread the Sauce
Using a spoon or spatula, evenly spread a layer of pizza sauce over each slice of Texas toast. Be generous with the sauce, but avoid overloading it, as too much sauce can make the toast soggy. Spread the sauce to the edges of the toast for a consistent flavor.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to ensure a uniform melt. If you’re using a combination of cheeses, layer them according to your preference. For example, you might place a layer of mozzarella followed by a sprinkle of cheddar.
Layer the Toppings
Add your chosen toppings on top of the cheese. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your ideal pizza. For a classic combination, try pepperoni, mushrooms, and bell peppers. For a unique twist, consider adding pineapple, bacon, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Season to Taste
Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes over the top of the pizza. This will enhance the flavor and add a bit of extra spice if desired. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Baking the Pizza
With the pizza assembled, it’s time to bake it to perfection. Follow these steps to ensure your Texas toast pizza turns out delicious.
Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the Texas toast are crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on the pizza as it bakes to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve
Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice the Texas toast pizza into individual pieces.
Variations and Tips
Texas toast pizza is highly versatile, allowing for a range of variations and adaptations. Here are some tips and ideas to make your pizza even more delicious.
Different Cheeses
Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar adds a tangy kick, while provolone provides a smoky flavor. For a more gourmet touch, try using fontina, goat cheese, or Gruyère.
Creative Toppings
Get creative with your toppings. Consider adding ingredients like roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also experiment with different meats, such as prosciutto or pancetta, for a unique flavor profile.
Dietary Adjustments
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread if you have dietary restrictions. Many stores offer gluten-free Texas toast or similar bread alternatives.
Vegan: Opt for vegan cheese and plant-based toppings to make the pizza vegan-friendly. There are many dairy-free cheese options available that melt well and add flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Texas toast pizza is great on its own, but you can also pair it with a variety of sides and dips to complete the meal:
Salads: A crisp green salad or a Caesar salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the pizza. You can also serve a side of coleslaw or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Dips: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for added flavor. These dips can complement the pizza and provide additional options for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the toast is crispy again. You can also reheat in a toaster oven or a skillet for a quick and convenient option.
Conclusion
Texas toast pizza is a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza. By using Texas toast as a base, you combine the rich, buttery flavor of the toast with the classic toppings of pizza. This recipe is not only easy to make but also highly customizable, allowing you to create a pizza that suits your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving a new pizza experience, Texas toast pizza is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of making this creative dish and savor every bite of its crispy, cheesy goodness.