Patrick Oconnell
Cheese toast is a simple, comforting dish that can be made in a variety of ways. While some people prefer to use a basic combination of bread, butter, and cheese, others like to experiment with different types of cheese, add sauces like mayonnaise or mustard, or include additional ingredients such as bacon or vegetables. The cooking method can also vary, with options including grilling, baking, or using a toaster oven. In this article, we will explore different methods and ingredients to help you create your perfect cheese toast.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 5 minutes |
| Cook time | 8-15 minutes |
| Number of servings | 1-2 |
| Calories | 316-454 |
| Fat | 20.0-31.0 g |
| Carbs | 17.1-18.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.2-3.0 g |
| Sugars | 2.0-5.0 g |
| Protein | 13.0-16.7 g |
| Sodium | 565.0-821.0 mg |
| Bread | Texas Toast, French or sourdough bread, white or brown bread |
| Bread thickness | 1/2-1 inch thick |
| Spread | Butter, mayonnaise |
| Cheese | Cheddar, shredded, sliced, or grated |
| Additional toppings | Worcestershire sauce, mustard, cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, salt |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right bread
When it comes to choosing the right bread for your cheese toast, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, any bread will work just fine, so use what you have. White bread is a simple, cheap, and well-loved option, especially by kids. If you're looking for something a little more substantial, Texas Toast—a thicker style of white bread—is a good choice as it holds up well to the cheese and provides a good bread-to-cheese ratio. You could also use Italian bread or any other type of bread you prefer.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of bread to find your perfect cheese toast combination. For example, you could try a heartier whole grain bread or a crusty French baguette. Just keep in mind that denser breads may require a little longer in the oven or toaster to ensure the cheese melts properly.
The texture of your bread is also important. You'll want to choose something that is soft enough to spread with butter or margarine, which can be used as a base for your cheese. If you're using shredded cheese, mixing it with mayonnaise can help it stick to the bread and prevent it from flying off in the air fryer or oven.
Finally, consider the overall flavour profile you're aiming for. If you're making a classic cheese toast, a plain white or Italian bread will likely be your best bet. However, if you're feeling fancy, you could try a flavoured bread, such as a cheese and herb loaf, or a bread with nuts and seeds for added texture and flavour.
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Sliced vs. grated cheese
When it comes to making cheese on toast, there are many ways to prepare the cheese, and people can be quite particular about their preferred method. Some prefer to slice the cheese, while others insist on grating it. Here are some things to consider when deciding between sliced and grated cheese for your cheese on toast:
Texture and Melt
Using grated cheese creates layers and tiny pockets of air, resulting in a lighter and less stodgy texture. Grated cheese also tends to melt more evenly and smoothly compared to sliced cheese. Pre-shredded store-bought cheese should be avoided, as it is often coated with anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly. If you decide to grate your cheese, it is best to use a standard box grater and opt for freshly grated varieties.
Convenience and Speed
Sliced cheese can be more convenient if you are short on time or looking for a quick snack. It eliminates the extra step of grating and allows you to place the cheese directly on the toast. Sliced cheese can also be a good option if you prefer your cheese to retain its shape and not melt completely.
Customization
Grating the cheese allows for more flexibility in terms of customization. You can mix grated cheese with various additives, such as malt vinegar, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce, creating unique flavors and textures. Grated cheese also allows for better coverage on the toast, ensuring that every bite is cheesy.
Presentation
If you are looking for a more visually appealing presentation, sliced cheese can offer a neat and uniform look. It provides distinct layers of bread and cheese, making the dish more visually distinct. Sliced cheese can also be a good option if you want to showcase the quality or variety of cheese you are using.
Ultimately, the decision between sliced and grated cheese for your cheese on toast comes down to personal preference, convenience, and the specific characteristics you desire in your final dish. Both methods can produce delicious results, so feel free to experiment and find the approach that best suits your taste and cooking style.
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Adding condiments
While cheese toast is a simple dish, there are endless ways to elevate it with condiments. The most popular condiment is Worcestershire sauce, which can be drizzled over the cheese before broiling, tossed with the cheese before laying it on the bread, or added after broiling. Another popular option is mustard, which some swear by as a crucial layer spread thinly under the cheese before grilling. However, others disagree, believing that adding mustard transforms the dish into Welsh rarebit territory.
For a unique twist, try adding a tablespoon of malt vinegar to the grated cheese and topping the toast with thinly sliced raw onion before adding the vinegary cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in some chopped chillies, pepper, mixed herbs, or chilli flakes for an extra kick. Alternatively, create a savoury blend by adding a good dollop of chutney to the cheese mixture, or experiment with onion-flavoured quark and salami for a super savoury experience.
For those who enjoy a creamy element, try blending mayonnaise with the cheese or spreading it directly on the bread. If you're feeling indulgent, top your cheese toast with bacon and canned pears, or get creative with cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or canned pears. No matter which condiments you choose, cheese toast is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste buds.
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Oven temperature and timing
For a lower-temperature bake, try 250°F (120°C). First, generously butter your bread and place it on a baking tray. Bake for around 3 minutes, or until the butter has melted. Then, remove the bread from the oven and spread the cheese mixture over it. Place the bread back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden-brown patches.
If you prefer a higher temperature, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your bread by spreading butter and the cheese mixture on top. Bake for 8-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to achieve your desired level of doneness.
For a quick reheat of frozen cheese toast, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer set to 370°F (187°C) and reheat for 2-3 minutes.
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Serving suggestions
Cheese on toast is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cheese on toast:
Classic Combinations
For a traditional take on cheese on toast, stick to classic combinations such as mature English cheddar with Worcestershire sauce, or a sharp Irish cheddar. You can also experiment with other good melting cheeses like Gruyère, Red Leicester, grated Parmesan, Fontina, Emmental, Muenster, or Gouda. These cheeses will melt into a gooey consistency and complement the toast perfectly.
Additional Toppings
Enhance your cheese on toast with additional toppings. Try sliced raw onion, cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or a thin spread of English mustard. If you're feeling adventurous, add a tablespoon of malt vinegar to the grated cheese for a tangy twist. For a more indulgent option, create a mixture of mayonnaise and cheese, spreading it generously on the toast.
Sides and Sauces
Serve your cheese on toast with a variety of sauces and condiments. Chutney, brown sauce, or ketchup can add a tangy and savoury dimension to the dish. For an extra kick of flavour, sprinkle paprika on the plate before serving. If you're serving Welsh Rarebit, a traditional British variation, provide knives and forks as the mixture will be quite liquid.
Presentation Ideas
Presentation-wise, you can cut the cheese on toast into triangles or rectangles, arranging them neatly on a platter. For a more casual setting, simply serve the cheese on toast straight from the oven or toaster, allowing it to cool for a minute or two so the cheese sets slightly.
Cheese on toast is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and serving styles.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need bread, butter, cheese, and optionally, mayonnaise, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
First, toast your bread. Then, mix your butter and cheese and any additional ingredients in a bowl. Spread the mixture on the untoasted side of the bread and broil until golden brown.
You should cook your cheese on toast for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden.
You can use any type of cheese you like, but popular options include cheddar, Grana Padano, Swiss, and Gouda.
