If you’re craving a satisfying snack that sings with Italian-inspired flavor and comfort, Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast will absolutely steal your heart (and taste buds). This irresistible recipe layers juicy, ripe tomatoes and melty cheese on crisp, garlicky bread, all crowned with fragrant herbs and a final flourish of basil. Ready in just minutes, it’s a sunny combination of texture and taste that begs to be enjoyed straight from the oven and shared with friends—or devoured on your own, guilt-free!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast is how it transforms a handful of humble ingredients into a crave-worthy treat. Each element is chosen for maximum flavor: vibrant tomatoes for color and juiciness, a duo of cheeses for gooey richness, and crusty bread as the perfect crunchy base.
- 4 slices of sourdough or crusty bread: Go for a hearty artisan loaf for structure and flavor that stands up to toppings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautifully golden toast.
- 2 cloves garlic (halved): For that essential garlicky bite—rubbing it on warm toast makes all the difference.
- 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced): Choose the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find; heirlooms or even colorful cherry tomatoes are fabulous.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese: For melt and stretch; provolone adds an extra sharpness if you like.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this nutty, salty cheese takes the flavor up a notch.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Makes the tomatoes pop with freshness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For gentle heat and savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Adds a classic herbal touch that evokes real Italian comfort.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish): An aromatic, vibrant finish that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast
Step 1: Prep and Toast the Bread
Start by preheating your broiler to high—this ensures a super quick, even toast. Brush both sides of your bread slices lightly with olive oil to infuse flavor and promote that irresistible crunch. Arrange them on a baking sheet and slide under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes per side, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Once they’re lightly golden, pull them out and immediately rub one side of each with the cut side of a garlic clove. This step delivers that unmistakable, aromatic garlic flavor in seconds.
Step 2: Layer on the Tomatoes and Seasoning
Lay the freshly sliced tomatoes in an even layer over the garlicky side of each toast. Don’t be shy—this is where the juiciness comes from! Sprinkle over the salt, black pepper, and a dusting of oregano (or Italian seasoning). This herb-flecked seasoning not only smells wonderful but balances the sweetness of the tomatoes with a savory edge.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Spoon a generous handful of shredded mozzarella or provolone over the tomatoes, making sure each piece is well covered for optimal gooeyness. Then follow with a light rain of grated Parmesan—this adds a punch of salty, savory depth and helps the cheese bubble beautifully during broiling. It’s what gives Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast its utterly addictive top layer.
Step 4: Broil Until Golden and Bubbling
Return the loaded toasts to the oven and broil for 2 to 4 minutes, just until the cheese is irresistibly melted and just beginning to bubble and brown. Keep a close eye, as broilers can go from perfect to burnt in a flash! When ready, the kitchen will be filled with the scent of toasted bread, bubbling cheese, and garlic—pure joy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
For the finishing touch, scatter fresh basil leaves over the hot Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast. Their bright color and aroma complete the dish, making each slice as beautiful as it is flavorful. Serve immediately while the cheese is at peak melt—trust me, you won’t want to wait!
How to Serve Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast
Garnishes
The classic finish is a handful of torn fresh basil leaves, which bring a pop of color and a layer of fragrance. For a modern twist, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few shavings of Parmesan right before serving. If you’re feeling daring, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds heat that balances the creamy cheese perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast with a crisp green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette for a light lunch, or pair with a piping hot bowl of tomato soup on a chilly day for pure comfort. For heartier occasions, consider serving alongside marinated olives, prosciutto, or even a simple pasta aglio e olio—your spread will be unstoppable!
Creative Ways to Present
You can slice the toast into bite-sized pieces and serve them on a platter for appetizers at your next gathering, or double the recipe to create a dazzling party tray. If you’re hosting brunch, make individual mini toasts using baguette slices or get playful with different bread shapes for a festive look. Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast is endlessly adaptable—let your creativity (and appetite) lead the way!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you show enough restraint to have leftovers, let the toasts cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep fresh for up to two days. The tomatoes may release some extra juice, but a quick reheat will revive both their flavor and crispness.
Freezing
While Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze assembled (but not yet broiled) toasts tightly wrapped in foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, go straight from freezer to a preheated broiler—just add a minute or two to the cook time and check often to prevent overbrowning.
Reheating
Reheat your toasts in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. For quick single slices, a toaster oven works wonders. Microwaving is possible in a pinch but may sacrifice some crunch, so oven reheating is your best bet for that classic crispiness.
FAQs
Can I make Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast with gluten-free bread?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free bread—it toasts up beautifully and lets the flavors shine just as much as traditional sourdough or crusty bread.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy toast from tomatoes?
For maximum crunch, make sure to toast your bread until it’s golden and rub with garlic while still warm. Using ripe but firm tomatoes and adding cheese right before broiling helps keep everything crisp where it counts!
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Definitely! Mozzarella and provolone are classic, but fontina, cheddar, or even a mix of cheeses all melt well. Let your taste and cheese drawer guide you—Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast loves variety.
Can I bulk prep these for a party?
Yes! You can assemble the toasts (up to the cheese layer) in advance and refrigerate on a lined baking sheet. Just before guests arrive, broil to melty perfection and garnish with basil. Party snack perfection!
What’s a fun twist on the original recipe?
Add thinly sliced red onion, a layer of pesto under the cheese, or swap in roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Each spin keeps Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast familiar but exciting every time you make it.
Final Thoughts
If you love bright flavors, effortless meals, and pure comfort on a plate, give Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast a try. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll end up making on repeat, whether for a cozy solo snack or a crowd-pleasing starter. Trust me—this is one dish you’ll crave again and again!
Print
Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Broiled
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic & Cheese Tomato Toast is a delicious and easy snack or light meal that features flavorful tomatoes, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of garlic, all served on crispy toasted bread.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 4 slices of sourdough or crusty bread
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (halved)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Toppings:
- 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Preheat the broiler to high.
- Prepare Bread: Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil and toast under the broiler until lightly golden.
- Add Garlic: Rub the top of each toast slice with the cut side of the garlic cloves.
- Layer Tomatoes: Evenly layer tomato slices over the toast slices.
- Season and Cheese: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Broil: Return to the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- Consider using heirloom or cherry tomatoes for variety.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
- Best served warm straight from the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
