Save to Pinterest A savory twist on classic French toast, these stacks feature layers of cheesy, garlicky goodness—perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast.
I first made these Cheesy Garlic French Toast Stacks for a weekend brunch with friends, and they were an instant hit. The combination of rustic bread, gooey cheese, and aromatic garlic really elevates the classic breakfast dish.
Ingredients
- Bread: 8 thick slices rustic bread (such as sourdough or country loaf)
- Egg Mixture: 4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 2 cloves garlic (finely minced), 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or herbes de Provence), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Cheese & Fillings: 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- For Cooking: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay out the bread slices. Sprinkle half the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over 4 slices. Top with the remaining bread to form sandwiches.
- Dip in Egg Mixture:
- Carefully dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 10 seconds per side.
- Cook the Stacks:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Pan-Fry Until Golden:
- Place the soaked sandwiches into the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from skillet and sprinkle each stack with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Cut each stack in half, if desired, and serve hot.
Save to Pinterest This dish is a new family favorite for relaxed Sunday mornings—everyone loves pulling apart the cheesy layers and sharing their own stack combinations.
Required Tools
Shallow bowl, whisk, large nonstick skillet, spatula, and knife are all you need to make these savory stacks.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (dairy), and wheat (gluten). Check ingredient labels if using pre-shredded cheeses or store-bought bread.
Nutritional Information
Each serving offers about 420 calories, 24 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 21 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Serve hot and garnish with extra fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. These stacks are sure to brighten any morning brunch.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Which type of bread works best?
Rustic breads like sourdough or country loaf give a sturdy base and enhance texture for stacking.
- → Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely. Gouda, Swiss, or fontina all melt well and offer different flavor profiles for variety.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead?
It's best cooked fresh, but you can layer and soak the bread in advance, then cook just before serving.
- → What sides pair nicely?
Simple green salads, roasted tomatoes, or lightly sautéed greens balance the richness of these stacks.
- → How can I adjust for spice?
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chili powder in the egg mixture adds heat without overpowering flavors.
- → Are there vegetarian options?
All listed ingredients are vegetarian. For vegan alternatives, use plant-based bread, cheese, and egg substitutes.