Air-Fryer Garlic Bread

There’s something undeniably comforting about garlic bread. It’s a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, salads, and soups. With the rise of air fryers in our kitchens, making Air-Fryer Garlic Bread has never been easier or faster. This method not only ensures perfectly crisp edges but also helps to infuse the bread with rich garlicky goodness. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this quick recipe will elevate your meal and impress your taste buds.

The Upside of Air-Fryer Garlic Bread

Using an air fryer to make garlic bread comes with a multitude of benefits. First and foremost, it cooks the bread evenly and efficiently, giving you a crunchy texture without the need for excessive oil or butter. It’s also a fantastic time-saver; what typically takes 15-20 minutes in a conventional oven can be done in under 10 minutes in an air fryer. Plus, you can make just enough for one meal or a whole batch for a gathering, without heating up your kitchen.

Ingredient Checklist

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, divided
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces

Recommended Tools

• Air Fryer – The star of the show; choose a model with enough capacity for your needs.
• Mixing Bowl – For combining the butter and seasonings.
• Knife – To slice the baguette easily.
• Spoon or Spreader – To evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on the bread.

Air-Fryer Garlic Bread: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of finely chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese if using. Mix until everything is well blended, creating a delicious garlic butter spread.

Step 2: Slice the Baguette

Take your baguette and slice it into 1-inch thick pieces. This thickness ensures that each slice has enough surface area to hold the garlic butter while achieving that perfect crunch.

Step 3: Spread the Butter

Generously spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each baguette slice. Make sure to cover the bread evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Air Fry the Garlic Bread

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the buttered baguette slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Air fry the garlic bread for about 5-6 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the garlic bread from the air fryer and sprinkle the remaining teaspoon of fresh parsley on top. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of your Air-Fryer Garlic Bread!

Make It Year-Round

• Try adding different herbs like basil or oregano for a twist.
• Substitute the baguette with ciabatta or sourdough for varied textures.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to suit your taste.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.

Avoid These Traps

To ensure your Air-Fryer Garlic Bread turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using cold butter can make spreading difficult and uneven.
• Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the preheating step may result in less than crispy bread.
• Not monitoring the cooking time can lead to burnt edges.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftovers (which is rare), here are some tips for storing and reheating:

• Store any uneaten garlic bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply place the slices back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to restore their crispiness.
• You can also wrap the slices in aluminum foil and warm them in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Ask the Chef

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder as a substitute! For this recipe, use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the minced garlic, adjusting to your taste preference.

How can I make this gluten-free?

You can easily make gluten-free Air-Fryer Garlic Bread by using a gluten-free baguette or bread of your choice. Just follow the same preparation steps for the garlic butter and air frying!

What can I serve with garlic bread?

Garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna, as well as soups like minestrone or tomato basil. It’s also great with salads or as part of an appetizer platter.

Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the baguette slices a few hours in advance. Just cover the slices and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry them.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for scrumptious cookie recipes.
• Pinch of Yum for delightful and healthy meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker for quick and easy plant-based recipes.

Save & Share

If you loved this Air-Fryer Garlic Bread recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends and family! It’s perfect for gatherings, dinner parties, or just cozy nights in. The simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

The delightful aroma of garlic and fresh herbs wafting through your kitchen will make this dish a staple in your home. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Air-Fryer Garlic Bread is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a culinary experience that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!