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This Texas Toast Air Fryer Pizza transforms frozen garlic bread into delicious mini pizzas in just minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner solution that still feels special and satisfying.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something fast that would still make my family happy. Now it's our go-to solution whenever sports practice runs late or we need a fun weekend lunch that doesn't require much effort.
Ingredients
- Texas Toast garlic bread slices: From the freezer section are the perfect base providing buttery garlic flavor and the ideal thickness
- Pizza sauce: Provides classic tomato flavor but use a high quality jar or homemade for best results
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that perfect cheese pull look; for the best flavor use whole milk mozzarella
- Mini pepperoni slices: Cook up crispy and provide classic pizza flavor without overwhelming the small slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Arrange:
- Preheat your air fryer to 182°C while arranging 4 slices of frozen Texas Toast in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd as this ensures proper air circulation and even cooking. If your air fryer is smaller you may need to work in smaller batches.
- Pre-Toast the Bread:
- Air fry the Texas Toast at 182°C for exactly 3 minutes. This important step creates a sturdy base that won't get soggy when toppings are added. The bread should be just starting to turn golden but not fully cooked.
- Add Pizza Sauce:
- Remove the basket carefully using heat resistant mitts. Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce evenly over each slice leaving a small border around the edges. The border prevents sauce from dripping down the sides and burning in the air fryer.
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Distribute approximately 25g of shredded mozzarella over each sauce covered slice. The cheese acts as a protective layer that helps hold the toppings in place. Top with 10 mini pepperoni slices per toast arranging them evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- First Melting Phase:
- Lower your air fryer temperature to 149°C and cook for 3 minutes. This gentler temperature allows the cheese to melt evenly without burning while the toppings begin to heat through. The pepperoni will start to release its flavorful oils into the cheese.
- Final Crisping Phase:
- Increase the temperature to 204°C and air fry for a final 2 minutes. This higher heat creates those beautiful golden brown edges and bubbling cheese that make pizza irresistible. Watch carefully during this stage to prevent burning.
- Serve and Repeat:
- Remove the first batch of mini pizzas carefully with a spatula. They will be extremely hot. Repeat the entire process with remaining ingredients for a second batch. Serve immediately while hot and cheese is at its stretchiest.
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The mini pepperoni is my secret weapon in this recipe. Their small size means they crisp up beautifully in the air fryer without making the pizza greasy. My daughter once declared these better than delivery pizza which might be the highest compliment my cooking has ever received.
Topping Variations
While pepperoni is a classic choice this recipe works beautifully with countless topping combinations. Try Italian sausage and mushrooms for a savory option or pineapple and ham for a sweet and salty Hawaiian style. For vegetarian options load up with bell peppers onions and black olives. The key is not overloading the small Texas Toast base; keep toppings to about 2 tablespoons total per slice.
Make Ahead and Storage
These mini pizzas are best enjoyed immediately after cooking when the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. However if you need to make them ahead you can prepare all the components and assemble just before air frying. Leftover cooked pizzas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 2 minutes to restore crispness.
Perfect Pairings
Turn these mini pizzas into a complete meal by pairing them with a simple side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. For a heartier meal serve alongside a cup of tomato soup for the classic pizza and soup combination that both kids and adults love. On game day these make perfect finger food alongside other appetizers like chicken wings or loaded potato skins.
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These Texas Toast pizzas are a quick and delicious way to satisfy any pizza craving. Perfect for family dinners or snacks, they will become a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular Texas Toast instead of garlic?
Yes, you can use regular Texas Toast, but garlic bread adds extra flavor that complements the other ingredients. Consider adding garlic powder or a touch of butter for enhanced flavor.
- → Can I replace mini pepperoni with other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings such as diced vegetables, cooked sausage, or even a sprinkle of fresh basil for variety.
- → What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or aluminum foil before placing the bread slices to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
- → How can I make the pizza extra crispy?
Toast the Texas Toast slices for an additional minute during the first air fryer step. This ensures a crisp base that holds up well under the toppings.
- → What’s the best alternative to mozzarella cheese?
Try shredded cheddar, provolone, or a pizza cheese blend as a substitute for mozzarella. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture.