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Texas Toast Air Fryer Pizza takes simple pantry and freezer staples and spins them into a crispy cheesy treat that is perfect for busy nights or after-school snacks. If you have ever craved pizza on a whim but did not want to fuss with dough or wait for delivery this will quickly become your go-to solution.
I first tried this with leftover garlic Texas Toast out of pure desperation one evening and my family ended up asking for it every week. Now it is our rainy day movie night tradition.
Ingredients
- Frozen garlic Texas Toast slices: bring a rich garlicky base that stays sturdy and crisp when air fried Try to choose thick cut slices for best results
- Pizza or marinara sauce: adds classic tomato flavor Opt for a jar with minimal added sugar and chunkier texture for a fresher taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into bubbly stretchy deliciousness Grate your own if possible for better melt and flavor
- Your favorite toppings: like mini pepperoni mushrooms olives bell peppers or cooked sausage These give you unlimited creative combinations Use pre sliced or pre cooked toppings if short on time
- Red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning: optional sprinkles that boost flavor and add a kick Use fresh dried spices for best aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Get your air fryer heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit About three minutes does the trick A preheated basket helps the toast get extra crisp
- Crisp the Texas Toast:
- Arrange the frozen garlic toast slices flat in the basket without overlapping them Air fry for about three minutes to thaw and just start to crisp This step ensures you do not get soggy pizza bottoms
- Assemble Your Pizzas:
- Carefully remove the toasts and spread each slice with one to two tablespoons of pizza sauce Sprinkle an even layer of mozzarella cheese and pile on your favorite toppings Customize each slice for picky eaters or flavor adventures
- Finish Air Frying:
- Return the topped toasts to the air fryer Cook for another four to five minutes until the cheese bubbles and the edges turn golden and crunchy Keep an eye on them so the cheese does not overbrown
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the mini pizzas cool for one or two minutes before eating This helps the cheese set slightly and makes them easier to handle
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I am such a fan of the garlic Texas Toast for its buttery bite that holds up to all the cheesy toppings My favorite memory is my kids holding a build your own pizza contest in the kitchen with every topping from leftovers in the fridge
Storage Tips
If you end up with leftovers simply cool the pizzas completely before storing Place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper They will keep in the fridge for up to three days To reheat just pop them back in the air fryer for two to three minutes until heated through and crispy
Ingredient Substitutions
Out of marinara Try barbecue sauce alfredo or pesto for completely different flavor profiles You can use regular bread in a pinch though you will want to toast it first for sturdiness Vegan cheese or plant based meats also work well here
Serving Suggestions
These mini pizzas make wonderful party snacks alongside a big green salad Serve them with a side of ranch or extra marinara for dipping They pair perfectly with veggie sticks or fruit for a quick well rounded lunch
Creative Origins
Texas Toast pizza is an American mashup born from convenience food and creativity Air fryers just made it better by guaranteeing an extra crispy crust without the wait for an oven This is the kind of recipe that gets passed from neighbor to neighbor for good reason
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Do I need to thaw Texas toast before air frying?
No, you can air fry directly from frozen for best results. Pre-crisp briefly before adding toppings.
- → Can I use different sauces besides pizza sauce?
Absolutely! Pesto or Alfredo make delicious alternatives for a fun flavor twist.
- → How do I get the toast extra crispy?
Air fry the toast without toppings for an extra minute before adding sauce and cheese.
- → What toppings work best for these mini pizzas?
Mini pepperoni, cooked sausage, mushrooms, olives, and bell peppers are popular, but get creative!
- → Is this a good meal option for kids?
Yes. Kids love assembling their own mini pizzas and can choose their favorite toppings.
- → How do I prevent sogginess in the finished pizzas?
Pre-crisp the toast and avoid overloading with sauce, ensuring a golden and crunchy base.