Caprese-Style Pizza Toast is a fast and flavorful way to enjoy the classic Italian flavors of mozzarella, tomato, and basil in a modern snack or light meal. Toasted sourdough bread provides a hearty, crispy base for melty mozzarella, thick tomato slices, and a savory parmesan finish. It’s a satisfying dish that delivers on both taste and texture, ideal for busy days or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, an after-school snack, or a party-ready appetizer, this pizza toast offers the comfort of pizza with the freshness of Caprese salad. It uses minimal ingredients, is ready in under 20 minutes, and is easily customizable. Plus, the contrast of warm, melted cheese and crisp bread is incredibly satisfying.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sourdough or rustic bread
- Olive oil
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Ripe tomato
- Dried oregano
- Garlic powder
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Salt and black pepper
directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or set toaster oven to bake mode.
- Lightly brush both slices of bread with olive oil and place them on a baking tray.
- Evenly distribute shredded mozzarella cheese over each slice.
- Layer thick-cut tomato slices over the cheese, slightly overlapping.
- Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and, if using, top with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2 toasts
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Estimated Calories: 330 kcal per toast
Variations
- Add protein: Top with slices of prosciutto, grilled chicken, or a poached egg.
- Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.
- Vegan option: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the parmesan.
- Extra flavor: Spread a thin layer of pesto or tomato sauce under the cheese.
- Mini bites: Use baguette slices to create Caprese pizza crostini for parties.
storage/reheating
Pizza toast is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one day. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular white bread instead of sourdough?
Yes, but sourdough or rustic bread provides better structure and flavor.
What kind of tomatoes work best?
Use ripe, firm slicing tomatoes such as heirloom, beefsteak, or vine-ripened.
Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?
Yes, fresh mozzarella slices work well but may release more moisture. Pat dry before using.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free bread as a substitute.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes, toast at 375°F (190°C) for about 6–8 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy toast?
Use firm bread, preheat the oven, and avoid overloading with tomatoes or wet ingredients.
Can I add other toppings?
Certainly. Roasted red peppers, olives, or sautéed mushrooms are great additions.
Should I peel the tomatoes?
No, the skin adds structure and helps keep the slices intact during baking.
How do I keep basil fresh on hot toast?
Add basil after baking to preserve its color and flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger tray and ensure even spacing so the bread toasts properly.
Conclusion
Caprese-Style Pizza Toast brings together the best of Italian flavors and modern convenience. With its simple preparation and rich, melty layers, it’s an ideal recipe for anyone seeking a quick yet indulgent bite. Whether enjoyed solo or shared as part of a spread, this toast is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Caprese-Style Pizza Toast
A quick and irresistible twist on pizza, this Caprese-inspired toast features crispy sourdough slices loaded with bubbling mozzarella, thick-cut juicy tomatoes, and a golden sprinkle of parmesan. Perfect for a fast lunch, snack, or party platter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 toasts 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 slices sourdough or rustic bread
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or set toaster oven to bake.
- Brush both slices of bread lightly with olive oil and place them on a baking tray.
- Evenly layer mozzarella cheese over each slice.
- Arrange tomato slices on top of the cheese, overlapping slightly.
- Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and generous parmesan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- If desired, top with fresh basil just before serving. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use heirloom tomatoes for added flavor and color.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a true Caprese touch.
- Can be made with gluten-free bread for dietary needs.
- Try adding a thin slice of prosciutto before baking for extra richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 toast
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg