Heat the 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter in a large Saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Add the minced 4 cloves garlic minced and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Pour in the 2 can crushed tomatoes and 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth. Stir in the 1 tsp dried basil, ½ tsp dried oregano, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, ¼ tsp black pepper freshly ground, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.

Use sliced bread at room temperature for even results. For rolls or baguette-style loaves, slice in half lengthwise to expose more surface to the heat. For crispier French-style bread, lightly mist or rub the outside with water before loading it in. If adding cheese or toppings, have them ready to go. Position the rack in the center of the Toaster Oven before you start.

Preheat on the toast or bake setting. Toaster ovens run hotter and faster than full-size ovens, so ignore Oven timing. Standard sliced bread on a medium setting is done in 2 to 4 minutes depending on your model and slice thickness. Place bread directly on the rack or on a small Aluminum Foil-lined pan with space between pieces for even heat circulation. For rolls or French-style bread misted with water, set the temperature to 350°F to 375°F. The surface moisture creates a light steam effect that encourages a crisp exterior. Watch through the oven window rather than relying on a timer alone. Look for a deep golden-tan color. For a cheese melt, let the bread warm and lightly color first, then add cheese and continue until fully melted and bubbling. Use the broil function for even coverage. If the top browns too fast, loosely drape a small piece of foil over it to slow browning without stopping the cook.

Use sliced bread at room temperature for even results. For rolls or baguette-style loaves, slice in half lengthwise to expose more surface to the heat. For crispier French-style bread, lightly mist or rub the outside with water before loading it in. If adding cheese or toppings, have them ready to go. Position the rack in the center of the Toaster Oven before you start.

Preheat on the toast or bake setting. Toaster ovens run hotter and faster than full-size ovens, so ignore Oven timing. Standard sliced bread on a medium setting is done in 2 to 4 minutes depending on your model and slice thickness. Place bread directly on the rack or on a small Aluminum Foil-lined pan with space between pieces for even heat circulation. For rolls or French-style bread misted with water, set the temperature to 350°F to 375°F. The surface moisture creates a light steam effect that encourages a crisp exterior. Watch through the oven window rather than relying on a timer alone. Look for a deep golden-tan color. For a cheese melt, let the bread warm and lightly color first, then add cheese and continue until fully melted and bubbling. Use the broil function for even coverage. If the top browns too fast, loosely drape a small piece of foil over it to slow browning without stopping the cook.