Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe

If you love the irresistible combination of warm, buttery bread with the bold flavors of garlic and parmesan, you are going to adore this Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe. It is a quick and delicious way to enjoy that perfect crunch on the outside with a soft, cheesy center that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re paired it with pasta or just craving a savory snack, this version of garlic bread is a total game changer, ready in under 20 minutes with just a handful of simple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe lies in a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each add their own special touch. From the richness of the butter to the sharp, nutty parmesan, each component enhances the flavor and texture to create that perfect bite.

• Italian or French bread (12 oz, Rustic Italian Style Artisan recommended): Provides a crusty exterior and soft interior, essential for garlic bread texture.
• Salted butter (1/2 cup, softened): The creamy base that carries the garlic and cheese flavors, ensuring every slice is indulgent.
• Minced garlic (2–3 tbsp): Fresh garlic lends the bold, aromatic punch that garlic bread is known for.
• Grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, savory depth and that irresistible melty finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley (1 tbsp): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by slicing your loaf of bread into roughly ½ inch thick pieces. This thickness is perfect for crisping up without drying out, allowing the center to remain fluffy and soft.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until you have a creamy, fragrant garlic butter blend that’s ready to spread generously over each bread slice.

Step 3: Spread and Preheat

Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture across all your bread slices, making sure each slice gets a good coating for maximum flavor. Next, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the perfect heat for crisping the bread without burning the garlic.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Place your prepared bread slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. To keep things neat and easy to clean, consider lining the basket with aluminum foil or a specialized air fryer liner. Air fry for 5 minutes, watching closely for a golden, crispy finish on the edges while the cheese melts beautifully.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or a light dusting of parmesan cheese adds a fresh, elegant touch. Some red pepper flakes also work beautifully if you enjoy a subtle kick alongside your garlic bread.

Side Dishes

This Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Italian dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or creamy fettuccine Alfredo. It also complements hearty soups and salads perfectly, adding a satisfying crunchy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your garlic bread slices stacked with alternating layers of fresh mozzarella and ripe tomato slices, or offer an olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip on the side. It makes for a charming appetizer that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any garlic bread left over, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the crispiness intact, it’s best not to seal it immediately while warm.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices after spreading the garlic butter but before air frying. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready, air fry straight from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To bring your Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe back to life on another day, a quick 3-4 minute stint in the air fryer at 350 degrees does the trick wonderfully, crisping the edges without drying out the bread or the cheesy topping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the bread slices slightly before spreading the garlic butter. Air frying from frozen bread is possible but may require extra cooking time to achieve that perfect crisp.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley works in a pinch—use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. You can also substitute with fresh basil or oregano for a slightly different, delicious flavor.

Is there a substitute for parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago are excellent substitutes, offering similar salty, sharp notes. If you want to keep it dairy-free, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, though texture will differ.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan butter spread and a plant-based cheese alternative. Just be sure to use a good quality garlic substitute like garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to keep that authentic flavor punch.

What temperature and time should I use if I want extra crispy garlic bread?

Try increasing the air fryer temperature to 375 degrees but reduce the time to 4 minutes to avoid burning. Keep a close eye on it to get that perfect balance of crunch and melt.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorite go-to sides that’s as easy as it is delicious. With minimal prep and ingredients, you get wonderfully crispy, buttery slices that pair with anything or stand alone as a snack. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it all the time—enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade garlic bread like never before!

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