If you’ve ever had a meal at Zaxby’s, you know the Texas Toast is something special. It’s golden brown, buttery, garlicky, and perfectly crisp on the outside while staying soft and pillowy inside. For me, it’s the kind of side that steals the show—it’s not just a piece of bread; it’s that warm, buttery bite that makes the whole meal complete. The first time I tried making it at home, I realized just how simple it is to recreate that signature flavor and texture—and honestly, it might even taste better fresh from your own skillet.
Now, this Zaxby’s Toast Recipe has become my go-to for everything from fried chicken dinners to breakfast sandwiches. It’s easy, foolproof, and always a crowd favorite. You only need a few ingredients, and the secret is in the butter spread—a mix of garlic powder, a hint of salt, and real butter that caramelizes beautifully when toasted.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade version of Zaxby’s Texas Toast gives you all the buttery, garlicky flavor you love without ever having to leave your kitchen. It’s rich, crisp, and perfectly seasoned—ideal for pairing with chicken tenders, salads, or even soup.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s quick to make, requires just a handful of ingredients, and elevates any meal instantly. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it as mild or garlicky as you like, use it for sandwiches, or serve it alongside your favorite Southern comfort foods. It’s comfort in every crunchy, buttery bite.
What You’ll Need
- 6 slices Texas Toast–style bread (thick-cut white bread, ¾–1 inch thick)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, for that perfect golden caramelization)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional—helps with even browning)
Pro Tips
- Use thick-cut bread. Regular sliced bread won’t get that signature Zaxby’s texture. Look for “Texas Toast”–style loaves at the grocery store.
- Butter both sides. That’s the secret to getting a crisp exterior and soft interior.
- Cook on medium heat. Too high, and it’ll burn before the inside warms through.
- Press lightly while cooking. A gentle press with a spatula helps create that uniform golden crust.
- Serve immediately. Texas Toast is best enjoyed hot off the griddle when it’s buttery and warm.
Tools You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Butter knife or pastry brush
- Spatula
- Small bowl for butter mixture
Substitutions and Variations
- Butter substitute: Use margarine or a plant-based spread if you prefer.
- Garlic variation: Add a pinch of garlic salt or minced fresh garlic for a bolder flavor.
- Cheesy version: Sprinkle Parmesan or shredded cheddar on top while cooking.
- Sweet version: Skip the garlic and salt, and spread cinnamon sugar butter instead.
- Sandwich-style: Use the toast for breakfast sandwiches or fried chicken sliders.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the garlic butter spread up to a week in advance. Store it in a covered container in the refrigerator and let it soften before using.
If you want to make the toast ahead of time, cook it and let it cool completely. Then store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet for 2–3 minutes until warm and crisp again.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic powder, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Spread a generous layer of the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread. If you want extra richness, spread both sides.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can test the temperature by flicking a drop of water—it should sizzle but not evaporate instantly.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
Place the buttered bread slices butter-side down on the skillet. Toast for 2–3 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula until golden brown. Flip and toast the other side for another 1–2 minutes until evenly browned.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from the skillet and serve immediately while warm. For an authentic Zaxby’s experience, pair it with fried chicken tenders and Zax sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fried chicken, coleslaw, and fries for a Zaxby’s-style meal.
- Use as the base for chicken sandwiches or BLTs.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast.
- Pair with soups or chili as a buttery, hearty side.
- Cut into strips and serve as dippers for ranch or garlic aioli.
Leftovers and Storage
If you somehow have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat, toast in a skillet or toaster oven until crisp again. Avoid microwaving—it’ll make the bread soft instead of crunchy.
Nutrition and Benefits
- Energy boost: Carbs and butter give you quick, satisfying fuel.
- Customizable: Adjust salt and butter to suit your diet.
- Comfort food staple: A simple, satisfying side for nearly any meal.
- Quick and easy: Takes under 10 minutes from start to finish.
Recipe FAQ
1. What kind of bread does Zaxby’s use?
They use thick-cut Texas Toast bread—soft on the inside, about 1 inch thick, and perfect for toasting.
2. How do I get the toast crispy like Zaxby’s?
Use medium heat and butter both sides. The sugar in the butter helps create that caramelized, crisp crust.
3. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Preheat to 375°F, place buttered slices on a baking sheet, and bake for 5–6 minutes per side until golden.
4. Can I use garlic salt instead of garlic powder?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.
5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but real butter gives the toast its rich flavor and perfect texture.
6. Can I freeze Texas Toast?
Yes—cool it completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until crisp.
7. What’s the secret to that Zaxby’s flavor?
The secret is the balance of butter, garlic powder, and a hint of salt cooked on medium heat until golden and slightly caramelized.
Buttery, Golden, and Unforgettable
This Zaxby’s Toast Recipe captures everything that makes their Texas Toast so irresistible—crispy edges, buttery flavor, and that soft, warm center. It’s quick, comforting, and the perfect side to almost anything.
Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never need to head to the drive-thru again. It’s Southern simplicity done right—golden, garlicky, and absolutely delicious.
