Cheesy Pizza French Toast Stacks
Ingredients
For the Toast Stacks
- 8 slices of thick sandwich bread or brioche
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil for cooking
For the Filling
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sliced cooked sausage or pepperoni
- ½ cup finely diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
For the topping
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- Pinch of Italian seasoning
- Black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Place the bread slices on a clean work surface.
For the best results, use slightly thick slices of bread. Bread that is a day old works especially well because it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy.
If your bread is very soft and fresh, allow it to sit uncovered for 15–20 minutes before preparing the recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Savoury Egg Mixture
Crack the eggs into a large shallow bowl.
Add the milk, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
Whisk thoroughly until the eggs and milk are completely combined.
This savoury mixture replaces the sweet custard normally used for traditional French toast.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cheddar.
Add the cooked sliced sausage or pepperoni, diced tomatoes, green bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using.
Mix gently.
The filling should be evenly distributed so every bite contains cheese, vegetables, and savoury toppings.
Step 4: Build the Stacks
Take one slice of bread and lightly dip both sides into the egg mixture.
Do not soak it for too long.
Place the bread on a plate or work surface.
Add a layer of the cheese and topping mixture.
Place another slice of bread on top.
Repeat the process to create individual stacks.
Depending on the thickness of your bread, you can make four large stacks or use three thinner slices for smaller stacks.
Do not make the stacks excessively thick because they need to cook through in the centre.
Step 5: Heat the Pan
Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Add butter or olive oil.
Allow it to heat gently.
Medium-low heat is important because the bread needs enough time to become golden while the cheese melts and the egg mixture cooks through.
Step 6: Cook the Stacks
Carefully place the prepared stacks into the skillet.
Cook for approximately 3–5 minutes per side.
Avoid pressing down heavily on the stacks.
Gently turn them using a wide spatula once the first side is golden brown.
Continue cooking until both sides are golden and crisp.
If the bread is browning too quickly while the cheese has not melted, reduce the heat.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Once the stacks are golden, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
Arrange a few thin tomato slices over the cheese.
Add a pinch of Italian seasoning and black pepper.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Place the stacks in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for approximately 5–8 minutes.
Bake until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
For a more golden finish, use the broiler for approximately 1 minute.
Watch carefully during broiling because the cheese can brown quickly.
Step 9: Garnish
Remove the stacks from the oven.
Sprinkle generously with fresh parsley.
Allow them to rest for approximately 2–3 minutes before serving.
This gives the melted cheese a chance to settle while keeping the centre warm and gooey.
Tips and Notes
Use Thick Bread
Thick-cut sandwich bread, brioche, Texas toast, or sturdy sourdough works particularly well.
Thin bread can become too soft when dipped into the egg mixture.
Slightly Stale Bread Works Best
Bread that is a day old absorbs the savoury egg mixture without falling apart.
Don’t Over-Soak
Dip each side briefly.
If the bread absorbs too much liquid, the stacks can become difficult to handle.
Keep the Heat Moderate
High heat can burn the bread before the egg mixture and cheese are fully cooked.
Medium-low heat gives you better control.
Use Cooked Meat
If using sausage, bacon, chicken, or other meat, make sure it is already cooked before adding it to the filling.
Don’t Overfill
A generous layer of cheese is delicious, but too much filling can cause the stacks to slide apart.
Let Them Rest
A few minutes of resting makes the stacks easier to cut and serve.
Recipe Variations
Chicken Pizza Toast Stacks
Replace the sausage or pepperoni with finely chopped cooked chicken.
Add mushrooms and roasted bell peppers for a delicious combination.