15-Minute Garam Masala Cheese Toast
A fusion twist on classic Welsh rarebit that combines sharp cheddar with warm Indian spices and fresh jalapeños. This quick broiled appetizer delivers rich, melted cheese with aromatic garam masala and a gentle heat from minced jalapeños. Perfect for casual entertaining or as a satisfying snack, the creamy mayonnaise base helps the spiced cheese mixture melt evenly while creating golden, bubbly edges under the broiler.
Ingredients
- ⅓ french baguette (about 1 foot), sliced in half lengthways
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly gratedgruyere or aged gouda1:1vegetariandairy-free
nuttier flavor
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ jalapeño, mincedserrano pepper1:1heat
more heat
- 1 scallion, sliced thinly
- 2 teaspoons milk
Instructions
- 1
Preheat broiler to high with oven rack at highest position
- 2
Spread both baguette halves with mayonnaise and place on baking sheet
- 3
Mix remaining ingredients in medium bowl with salt and pepper until thoroughly combined
- 4
Mound cheese mixture evenly on baguette halves
- 5
Broil 2-3 minutes until melted, bubbly, and lightly browned, watching carefully
- 6
Transfer to cutting board and cut each half into 4 slices
Tips
Watch the broiler carefully as cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly under high heat.
Remove jalapeño ribs and seeds for milder heat, or use the full pepper with seeds for more spice.
Cut with a serrated knife while still warm for clean slices that hold the melted topping.
Good to Know
Best served immediately while hot and cheese is melted
Cheese mixture can be prepared up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerated
Serve immediately while hot and cheese is bubbly
Common Mistakes
Position oven rack at highest level to prevent burning bread before cheese melts
Watch broiler constantly as cheese can burn quickly under high heat
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
nuttier flavor
General Alternatives
more heat
FAQ
Can I make this with pre-shredded cheese?
Fresh grated cheese melts much better, but pre-shredded will work though it may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents.
What if I don't have garam masala?
Substitute with curry powder or make your own blend using cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper.
How long will leftovers keep?
These are best eaten immediately, but leftovers can be refrigerated for 1 day and reheated in a toaster oven until warmed through.