Garlic Cheese Toast Recipe

Soften and mix butter

Soften the unsalted butter at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or microwave for 8–10 seconds until spreadable but not melted. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until evenly distributed.

Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a broiler for finishing, position a rack about 6 inches (15 cm) from the broiler element.

Brush bread

Place the 4 bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment or lightly greased. Using a knife or pastry brush, evenly spread about 1 tablespoon of the garlic butter mixture onto the cut side of each slice. Reserve the remaining garlic butter for later or extra brushing.

Assemble cheese topping

In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, shredded provolone, grated parmesan, and grated romano/asiago. Sprinkle an equal portion of the 4-cheese blend over each buttered bread slice, pressing lightly so the cheese adheres.

Bake until golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 6–8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and starting to bubble. For a golden-brown top, switch to the broil setting and broil 1–2 minutes more, watching closely to prevent burning. Remove when cheese is evenly golden.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the garlic cheese toast rest 1 minute. If desired, brush the exposed crust edges lightly with remaining garlic butter for extra flavor. Cut each slice on a slight angle if preferred.

Transfer each slice to plates and serve immediately with warmed marinara sauce (about 2 tablespoons per slice). Offer red pepper flakes on the side for optional heat.