Air Fryer Garlic Bread

This air fryer garlic bread is crispy, buttery, and loaded with rich garlic flavor. I love how the air fryer gives it that perfect golden crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and warm. It’s quick, easy, and pairs with just about any meal—or stands on its own as a savory snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I reach for this recipe when I want delicious garlic bread without turning on the oven. It takes just minutes to prepare and delivers that same bakery-style crispiness I crave. The garlic butter melts into the bread beautifully, and I can easily customize it with cheese or herbs depending on what I’m serving it with.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• French bread or Italian loaf, sliced

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Garlic, minced or grated

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Shredded mozzarella (optional, for cheesy garlic bread)

Directions

1. I preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, I mix the softened butter with garlic, salt, and chopped parsley until it’s smooth and spreadable.

3. I spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each slice of bread.

4. If I’m adding cheese, I sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top.

5. I place the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if needed.

6. I air fry for 4–6 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden and the butter has melted into the bread.

7. I serve it warm, fresh out of the fryer.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 slices of garlic bread, depending on how thick I slice the loaf. Prep takes 5 minutes, and air frying takes another 4–6 minutes. I can have fresh garlic bread ready in under 10 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I make it cheesy with mozzarella or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. I’ve also used garlic powder when I’m out of fresh garlic, or swapped in basil or oregano for a different herb flavor. For garlic breadsticks, I slice the loaf lengthwise instead of into rounds.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes until warm and crisp again. I don’t recommend microwaving—it softens the crust.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best?

I like using French or Italian bread with a soft interior and crusty exterior. Baguettes and sandwich rolls work too in smaller portions.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, I’ve done it when I’m in a rush. I use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per tablespoon of butter.

How do I keep the bread from flying around in the air fryer?

If I use lightweight slices, I press them down lightly into the basket or place a wire rack on top to hold them steady.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use a vegan butter substitute and skip the cheese. The garlic and herbs still bring great flavor.

Can I make this ahead?

I prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread, then store the slices in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I air fry them fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

Air fryer garlic bread is one of my favorite quick sides—it’s fast, flavorful, and perfectly crispy every time. Whether I’m serving it with pasta, soup, or salad, or just snacking on it straight from the fryer, this recipe always delivers that warm, garlicky satisfaction.

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