You know that feeling when you’re craving something cozy, but also a bit gourmet? That happy medium between a homemade treat and a flavor-packed indulgence? That’s exactly where this pizza toast recipe lands. It takes you back to late-night snacks, weekend lunches, and lazy Sunday brunches—only this time, it comes with an elevated twist.
You don’t need a brick oven or a fancy setup. All it takes is a few simple ingredients and a little love in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, impressing guests, or feeding a hungry family, this recipe will become your go-to. And the best part? It satisfies both the pizza lover and the toast aficionado in you. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas
Let’s walk through every delicious detail.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Toast Recipe
Quick and Fuss-Free
- No kneading dough or long prep
- Ready in about 25 minutes
Elevated Flavor Profile
- Uses fresh mozzarella, garlic, basil, and parmesan
- Toasted sourdough brings crunch and richness
Versatile and Customizable
- Easily swap toppings or breads
- Works as breakfast, lunch, snack, or even dinner
Ingredients for Pizza Toast
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious comfort food.
Main Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Beef Tomatoes | 2 |
Passata | 250 ml |
Mozzarella (sliced) | 250 g (2 balls) |
Parmesan (grated) | 50 g |
Fresh Basil | 1 bunch (leaves only) |
Sourdough Bread | 4 large slices |
Garlic | 2 cloves |
Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tbsp (plus more for drizzling) |
Salt & Pepper | To taste |
Dried Oregano | Optional (for garnish) |
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 2-4
Calories: Approx. 300-350 per serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (fan-assisted) and allow it to preheat while you prep.
2. Toast the Bread
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil.
- Fry sourdough slices until golden (about 2 mins per side).
- Rub each side with a garlic clove while hot for maximum flavor.
- Place on a baking tray.
3. Layer the Ingredients
- Blot mozzarella slices to remove moisture.
- On each toast slice:
- Add mozzarella
- Layer fresh basil leaves
- Place sliced beef tomatoes
- Drizzle with olive oil
- Season with salt and pepper
4. First Bake
- Bake for 15 minutes until cheese begins to melt and tomatoes soften.
5. Add the Final Touches
- Remove from oven.
- Spoon 2 tbsp of passata onto each toast.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan and a dash of oregano.
6. Final Bake
- Return to oven for 5 more minutes.
- Watch for bubbling cheese and lightly crisped edges.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve hot, right out of the oven.
Tips to Get It Just Right
Choose the Right Bread
- Sourdough adds texture and tang.
- Can sub with ciabatta, rye, or multigrain.
Mind the Moisture
- Always pat mozzarella to avoid sogginess.
- Use firm tomatoes and blot them lightly if needed.
Customize Away
- Add olives, anchovies, chili flakes, or mushrooms.
- Make it spicy with crushed red pepper.
- Use vegan cheese and gluten-free bread if needed.

Nutritional Snapshot
Nutrient | Per Serving (estimate) |
Calories | 325 kcal |
Protein | 16 g |
Carbs | 24 g |
Fats | 18 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Calcium | 220 mg |
Note: Values vary based on bread type and cheese brand.
When to Serve Pizza Toast
Breakfast Brilliance
Start your day with a slice loaded with flavor and energy.
Midday Meal
Perfect for lunch paired with a side salad or soup.
Dinner Simplicity
Add a hearty bowl of roasted veggies or pasta to complete the meal.
Entertaining Guests
Slice into small portions and serve as a rustic appetizer.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Prep Ahead
- You can toast and assemble earlier in the day.
- Store in fridge (covered) for up to 6 hours before baking.
Store Leftovers
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 5–7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving to preserve the crisp texture.
Pairing Suggestions
Drinks
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Herbal iced tea
- Red wine (like Sangiovese) if you’re feeling fancy
Sides
- Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
- Tomato soup or minestrone
FAQs About Pizza Toast
What kind of bread works best for pizza toast?
Sourdough is ideal because it holds up well under toppings and stays crisp. Ciabatta, baguette, or any thick-cut artisan bread also work great.
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh mozzarella offers a more authentic texture and taste. Just be sure to reduce moisture regardless.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! You can even let your kids help layer the toppings.
How can I make it healthier?
Try whole grain or gluten-free bread, use low-fat cheese, and load up on veggies.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free cheese and check that your bread is vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Pizza toast hits that perfect spot between nostalgic and elevated. It doesn’t ask for a lot, but it delivers huge in taste, texture, and feel-good vibes. Whether you’re putting together a quick weekday meal or just feeding your soul, this recipe checks all the boxes.
You don’t need a culinary degree to whip up something satisfying. All you need is a few minutes, the right ingredients, and a hungry appetite. Try it once, and this will be on repeat in your kitchen.
Print
Pizza Toast Recipe: A Comforting Classic Reinvented
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
- Savor the ultimate pizza toast recipe—crispy sourdough, melty cheese, and fresh basil in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 beef tomatoes
- 250 ml passata
- 250 g mozzarella (2 balls), cut into thin slices
- 50 g parmesan
- 1 bunch fresh basil, leaves removed from stem
- 4 large slices of sourdough bread
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt & Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (fan-assisted).
- Start by frying the sourdough slices in batches in a frying pan over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. While frying, rub the exposed side of each slice with a garlic clove to infuse flavor. Fry each side for about 2 minutes until golden, then transfer to a baking tray.
- Pat the mozzarella slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place the slices on the toasted sourdough, followed by a layer of fresh basil leaves and sliced beef tomatoes. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top each slice with passata (about 2 tbsp per slice), grated parmesan, and a sprinkle of oregano.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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