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Pizza toast is that weeknight miracle when you crave something indulgent but need it on the table fast. This twist with ham tomato and mozzarella delivers the gooey satisfaction of pizza and works perfectly for brunch lunch or even a quick dinner when appetites run high and time is short. My kids used to fight for the last slice of this while it was still piping hot out of the oven
Every time I make this pizza toast it sparks memories of lazy Sundays with the smell of melted cheese drifting through the house everybody racing to grab their own slice
Ingredients
- Country bread: thick slices create a sturdy crust and chewy bite choose a rustic loaf that will hold up to toppings
- Olive oil: helps crisp the bread and adds a subtle richness use extra virgin for best flavor
- Tomato slices: bring juiciness and a hint of acidity pick one that feels heavy and ripe
- Mozzarella: softens into gooey pools always get the ball variety for a creamier melt
- Cooked ham: offers salty savory notes fresh thick deli cuts work especially well
- Eggs: add a satisfying protein boost go for free range if possible for the best color
- Scallion or cilantro: bring a bright pop and color scallion has a sweeter crunch
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper: wake up the entire combo use flaky or kosher salt when you can
- Hot sauce (optional): for a little heat add your favorite brand or homemade version
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to four hundred eighty degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred fifty degrees Celsius so it is fully heated when your toppings are ready
- Toast and Drizzle the Bread:
- Lightly toast the bread slices until the edges just start to crisp up this step keeps the base from getting soggy Join smaller slices together if needed then set them on a pizza stone or lined baking sheet Drizzle a good amount of olive oil to cover the bread
- Layer Tomatoes and Scallion:
- Cover the bread surface with overlapping tomato slices Scatter chopped scallion over the tomatoes pressing them in slightly for even flavor
- Add Mozzarella and Create a Well:
- Lay the mozzarella pieces on top of the tomatoes try to arrange them in a circle with a small gap in the center this ingenious little well is what will cradle your egg later
- Arrange Ham:
- Drape the ham around the center filling it in the spaces between cheese and tomatoes for an even savory bite
- Add and Season the Egg:
- Crack an egg right into the cheese well on each toast Sprinkle salt and fresh cracked pepper to enhance every layer
- Bake:
- Slide the baking sheet into your hot oven Cook for about ten minutes or until the egg white has just set and the cheese is bubbling and golden in places keep an eye so the yolk stays runny if that is your preference
- Finish with Garnishes:
- Pull the tray out and shower the toasts with chopped scallion greens and a dash of hot sauce serve immediately while everything is melty and steaming
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Whenever I pile these toppings on the bread I am reminded of my dad always insisting on an extra tomato slice for himself his love for bright juicy tomatoes made every batch better
Storage Tips
Leftover pizza toast stores well in the fridge for a day or so just wrap with foil or store in an airtight container Reheat in a toaster oven to keep the toast crisp and the cheese melty Microwaving is an option but you will lose some crunch on the bread
Ingredient Substitutions
No mozzarella on hand try slices of provolone gouda or even a handful of shredded cheddar Bacon or turkey slices also work great in place of ham Change up the herb topping with fresh basil or chives for a different twist
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pizza toast with a light salad or a bowl of tomato soup It is a top contender for a picnic plate or fast lunch meal I even love to serve it with pickles on the side to cut through the richness
Cultural Context
Pizza toast is a clever way to get the spirit of Italian pizza using everyday ingredients and a fraction of the time In Italy and across Europe improvisational versions like this are served in cafes as quick snacks I always marvel at how each country puts its own spin on melding bread tomato and cheese
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Pizza toast transforms leftovers and pantry staples into cheesy comforting brilliance with almost no effort Make it once and I promise your family will ask for it again and again
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, any sturdy bread like sourdough or whole grain will work well for holding the toppings and egg.
- → What is the best way to keep the egg from running off?
Create a small well in the mozzarella and tomato to hold the egg in place as it bakes.
- → Do I have to use ham?
Feel free to substitute ham with cooked bacon, turkey, or keep it vegetarian with extra veggies.
- → How can I add more flavor?
Try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano, a drizzle of pesto, or your favorite hot sauce before serving.
- → What’s the ideal baking time for the egg?
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the egg white is set but the yolk remains slightly runny.