Lorenzo Devereaux
Get ready to meet your new go-to snack or quick meal: Air Fryer Pizza Toast. This crispy, cheesy, pepperoni-topped delight takes the best parts of pizza and condenses them into a fast and fun open-faced version that’s ready in minutes. Golden toast replaces traditional crust, giving each bite a perfect crunch while the melty cheese and sizzling pepperoni add familiar, comforting flavors.
Whether you’re craving a late-night treat, need a fast lunch idea, or want to whip up something the kids will love, this recipe delivers. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or anytime you need a crowd-pleaser without a lot of effort. You can even customize toppings to suit different preferences—think mushrooms, olives, veggies, or different cheeses. Plus, cleanup is minimal!
Ingredients for this Air Fryer Pizza Toast Recipe
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (Texas toast or brioche preferred)
- 1/2 cup pizza or marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12–16 slices of pepperoni (or your favorite toppings)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Olive oil spray (optional, for extra crisp)
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base
Start by selecting your favorite thick-cut bread. Lay the slices flat on a cutting board or plate. If you want extra crispiness, lightly spray each side with olive oil or butter. This will help create that irresistible golden crunch when air fried.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
Spread a generous spoonful of pizza or marinara sauce on each slice of bread. Make sure to cover all the way to the edges for that full pizza flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Layer on the Cheese
Sprinkle a hefty amount of shredded mozzarella over the sauced bread. The more cheese, the better! If you love cheesy pulls, go for the full 1 1/2 cups.
Step 4: Top with Pepperoni
Place 3–4 slices of pepperoni on each piece of toast. You can add more if you want full coverage, or swap in other toppings like mushrooms, green peppers, or olives.
Step 5: Add Seasoning
Dust a bit of Italian seasoning or dried oregano over the top for extra flavor. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan too—it adds a salty, nutty finish.
Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the loaded slices into the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Air fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread edges are crisp and golden. Keep an eye on them so the cheese doesn’t burn!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the pizza toasts and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or enjoy them just as they are—crispy, cheesy, and delicious!
Estimated Nutrition
Per slice (with pepperoni, mozzarella, and sauce):
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: ~12g
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugars: ~3g
- Sodium: ~600mg
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on the bread and toppings you use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of bread works best for pizza toast?
Thick-sliced bread like Texas toast, sourdough, or brioche works great. You want a sturdy base that won’t get soggy.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free bread and double-check that your toppings are also gluten-free.
Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded mozzarella melts better. Pre-shredded cheese may have added starches that affect melt quality.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Of course! Simply skip the pepperoni or use plant-based meat alternatives. Load up on veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives.
How can I prevent soggy toast?
Use thicker bread, don’t overload with sauce, and be sure to air fry at a high enough temp to crisp everything up.
Can kids help make this?
Yes! It’s a great recipe for kids to assemble on their own before an adult handles the air frying.
What other cheeses can I use?
Try provolone, cheddar, a sprinkle of feta, or even spicy pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble them in advance and store in the fridge for a few hours. Just air fry when ready to serve.
Air Fryer Pizza Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Craving something cheesy, crispy, and ridiculously easy to make? This Air Fryer Pizza Toast recipe delivers all the pizza flavor you love in a fraction of the time. Perfect for quick breakfasts, easy dinners, after-school snacks, or a fun food idea for movie night, this is an easy recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Toasted bread serves as the base for melty mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and perfectly crisped pepperoni, making each bite a satisfying combo of crunch and gooey goodness. It’s one of those breakfast ideas that doubles up as a dinner idea with barely any effort!
Ingredients
4 slices thick-cut bread (Texas toast or brioche)
1/2 cup pizza or marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
12–16 slices pepperoni (or toppings of choice)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning or oregano
Olive oil spray (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray both sides of the bread with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Spread a generous layer of sauce on each slice of bread.
- Add shredded mozzarella over the sauce.
- Top with pepperoni slices or desired toppings.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and Parmesan if using.
- Place slices in air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and edges are crispy.
- Let cool for 1–2 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dinner