Garlic Butter Cheese Toast Recipe

Soften and combine

Leave the unsalted butter at room temperature for 15–20 minutes until easily spreadable. If short on time, microwave in 5-second bursts until softened but not melted.

Make garlic butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, olive oil, fine sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of the chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until uniform and slightly fluffy.

Prepare bread

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the sliced bread in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.

Spread garlic butter

Using a knife or spatula, spread about 1 tablespoon of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut surface of each bread slice (adjust quantity to fully cover). Reserve any extra butter for later.

Add cheeses and flakes

Top each buttered slice with a generous layer of shredded or sliced fresh mozzarella (about 1/4 cup per slice). Sprinkle a light dusting of grated Parmesan over the mozzarella (about 1/2 tsp per slice). Finish with a small pinch of red pepper flakes on each slice for mild heat.

Bake until bubbly

Place the baking sheet on the middle rack and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly and edges of the bread begin to turn golden. For a browned top, switch the oven to broil on high for 1–2 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.

Garnish and serve

Remove the toasts from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with the remaining chopped parsley and the lemon zest (if any left) for brightness. Optionally squeeze a little lemon juice from a wedge over each toast to taste. Serve hot.

Note: Any reserved garlic butter can be warmed and drizzled over the toasts for extra richness.