PESTO MOZZARELLA GARLIC TOASTS: Irresistibly Cheesy Delight!
Crispy, cheesy, garlicky and bursting with herby pesto flavor! These PESTO MOZZARELLA GARLIC TOASTS are an irresistible snack or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large baguette or Italian loaf, sliced thick
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, and minced garlic. Brush generously over bread slices.
- Spread a thick layer of pesto over each slice.
- Top with mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan. Season lightly with black pepper.
- Bake 8–12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for golden, crispy tops (watch closely!).
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella slices for extra gooey texture.
- Add sliced tomatoes under the cheese for a caprese twist.
- Swap pesto for sun-dried tomato spread for a bold variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 toast
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg