Texas Toast Pizza in the Air Fryer

Introduction

When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, few things can compete with the deliciousness of pizza. As a busy parent, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also delightfully tasty. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the concept of Texas Toast Pizza made in the air fryer. My family loves it, especially my kids, who find the mini pizzas irresistible. The combination of crispy garlic toast, gooey cheese, and pepperoni is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s a fun way to let everyone customize their own toppings!

Ingredients

To make this delectable Texas Toast Pizza, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 slices Texas Toast Garlic Bread
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 80 mini pepperoni slices

Instructions

Air Fry the Garlic Toast

1. Place 4 slices of garlic toast in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
3. For easier cleanup, consider lining the air fryer with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Add Toppings

1. Open the air fryer basket and spread 1-2 spoonfuls of pizza sauce on top of each slice of toast.
2. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and top with 10 mini pepperoni slices per toast.

Melt Cheese

1. Close the air fryer basket and lower the temperature to 300°F (149°C).
2. Air fry for an additional 3 minutes to melt the cheese and help the pepperoni adhere.

Brown the Cheese

1. Increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and air fry for 2 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.

Repeat

1. Remove the pizza slices and repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
2. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy mini pizza toasts!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approx. 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 14g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

Serve your Texas Toast Pizza with a side of:

• Marinara sauce for dipping
• A fresh garden salad
• Garlic knots or breadsticks
• Extra cheese for those who love it
• A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick

Additional Tips

1. Customization: Feel free to swap out the mini pepperoni for other toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
2. Cheese Choices: Mix different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone for added flavor.
3. Cooking in Batches: If you have a smaller air fryer, you can cook in batches without compromising on taste.
4. Leftover Garlic Toast: Use any leftover garlic toast from previous meals for this recipe.
5. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Veggie Lovers: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and black olives on top of the cheese for a veggie-packed pizza.
• Meat Feast: Use a variety of meats like diced ham, cooked sausage, or bacon bits alongside the pepperoni.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate jalapeño slices or spicy sausage for a heat boost.
• BBQ Chicken: Replace the pizza sauce with barbecue sauce and top with shredded chicken and red onions.
• Buffalo Style: Add shredded cooked chicken and drizzle with buffalo sauce for a tangy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Texas Toast Pizza with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or soda.
• Serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering, cutting the toast into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
• Combine with other finger foods for a fun game day spread.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you want to prepare these in advance, assemble the pizzas on the garlic toast and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Storage: Leftover Texas Toast Pizza can be stored in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular bread instead of Texas Toast?

• Yes, but Texas Toast adds a delightful garlic flavor and extra crunch.

1. What other toppings can I use?

• Feel free to get creative! Use your favorite pizza toppings such as veggies, meats, or different cheeses.

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, just use gluten-free bread and ensure your pizza sauce and toppings are gluten-free.

1. How long does it take to cook if I double the recipe?

• You may need to cook in batches, as the air fryer can only accommodate a limited amount at once.

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

• Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a pizza blend work wonderfully.

1. Is it necessary to pre-cook the garlic toast?

• Pre-cooking helps to create a crispier base for the toppings.

1. What is the best way to store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for best results.

1. Can I make these in the oven instead of the air fryer?

• Yes! Bake in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

1. How can I make it dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free cheese and check your pizza sauce for dairy ingredients.

1. What dipping sauces go well with this?

• Marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter are great choices!

Conclusion

Texas Toast Pizza in the air fryer is a game-changer for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a quick meal without compromising on taste. The combination of crispy garlic toast and gooey cheese with pepperoni is hard to resist, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you customize it with your favorite toppings or keep it classic, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your home. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of these mini pizza toasts any night of the week!

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