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Craving pizza but short on time Air fryer pizza toast is the fast comfort food I reach for when those cheesy cravings hit It brings together everything you love about pizza with barely any prep or cleanup
My family started making air fryer pizza toast during busy school weeks and it quickly became our top after school snack Now my kids ask for it as a weekend treat too
Ingredients
- Bread Slices: White or whole wheat both work perfectly Go for a sturdy loaf to prevent sogginess
- Pizza Sauce: Look for a zesty tomato sauce or try homemade Thicker sauce helps prevent the bread from getting soggy
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that melty gooey topping Freshly shredded melts better than bagged if you have time
- Pepperoni Slices: Thinly sliced gives the best crisp edges You can swap for turkey pepperoni or a vegetarian option if you prefer
- Italian Seasoning: Brings the classic pizzeria vibe A blend with oregano and basil works well
- Garlic Powder: Optional but adds a nice garlicky boost Fresh garlic is a great upgrade for more punch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Make sure the basket is clean to avoid any burning from leftover oil or crumbs
- Sauce the Bread:
- Lay your bread slices flat and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on each one Go right to the edges so every bite is saucy
- Add Cheese:
- Evenly sprinkle mozzarella over the sauced bread Cover every bit for that perfect cheese pull
- Top with Pepperoni and Seasonings:
- Arrange the pepperoni slices on top Make sure to space them so they crisp up Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over everything
- Air Fry Until Golden:
- Carefully place the topped bread slices in the air fryer basket Cook for five to seven minutes Check after five minutes for a crispy golden finish The cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned
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My favorite part is watching the cheese bubble and brown in the air fryer My kids practically race to the kitchen when they smell this cooking It is the snack that has saved many an after school meltdown
Storage Tips
Air fryer pizza toast is best savored hot and crispy right from the basket If you do have leftovers let them cool then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive the crunch
Ingredient Substitutions
Any bread works here Try sourdough English muffins or naan for a twist For cheese swap mozzarella with cheddar or provolone You can replace pepperoni with mushrooms olives or even leftover cooked chicken
Serving Suggestions
Pair pizza toast with a leafy green salad for an easy dinner or serve with tomato soup for a nostalgic meal This is fun for parties too just cut each toast into bite sized strips for sharing
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A Snack with a Story
Pizza toast started in the 1960s as a lunch counter trend and still wins hearts today Fast easy and endlessly adaptable my family has given it our own spin with extra cheese and lots of seasonings Try your own twist by mixing up sauces or adding fresh herbs
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?
Yes, whole wheat bread works well and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your pizza toast.
- → How can I make it vegetarian?
Simply skip the pepperoni or replace it with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
- → What cheese works best if I don't have mozzarella?
Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses can substitute for mozzarella.
- → How do I prevent soggy toast?
Spread sauce evenly without overloading and air fry until the bread edges are crisp and golden.
- → Is preheating the air fryer necessary?
Preheating helps ensure even crisping and faster cook times, resulting in better toasted bread.