Quick & crispy
Okay, so here’s the thing—I wasn’t always this good at making garlic bread. Shocking, I know. I used to either burn it to a crisp or undercook it so badly the butter just… sat there, like a sad little puddle. My turning point? The
It all started during a late-night movie marathon when the fridge was running low on, well, everything—except a half loaf of Italian bread, some butter, and shredded mozzarella. I was feeling lazy but needed something snacky and comforting. I thought, “Let’s see what this
Y’all, I’m not exaggerating—it was love at first bite. That crispy edge, the melty cheese, the buttery garlic flavor? Perfect. And the best part? No oven preheating. No waiting around. Just cheesy, garlicky goodness in minutes.
Since then, this Air Fryer Garlic Cheese Bread has become my go-to. Friends ask for it. Family fights over the last piece. And me? I make extra just so I can sneak a slice before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe?
Still on the fence? Let me break it down:
- Under 15 Minutes Start-to-Finish: Seriously. You’ll spend more time deciding on your Netflix show.
- Crispy, Cheesy, and Buttery: The holy trinity of good garlic bread.
- Minimal Ingredients, Max Flavor: Bread. Butter. Cheese. Garlic. That’s it.
- Customizable AF: Feeling fancy? Add herbs. Like heat? Throw in some red pepper flakes.
- It Pairs with Literally Everything: Pasta? Soup? Salad? Yep, it’s the ultimate sidekick.
Ingredient Notes:
Nothing fancy here—just simple ingredients that really shine.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf Italian bread or French baguette (Italian is fluffier, baguette is crispier—your call)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened (because room temp butter is spreadable magic)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic for a punchier flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (the meltier, the better)
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley (optional—but it gives that “I’m fancy” touch)
Optional but Highly Recommended:
- Marinara sauce for dipping. Because… why not?
How To Make Air Fryer Garlic Cheese Bread?
If you can spread butter on toast, you’ve got this.
Step 1. Slice That Bread
Grab your bread and slice it into 2-inch thick pieces. We’re talking hearty slices here—something that can hold all that buttery, cheesy goodness without collapsing under pressure.
Step 2. Whip Up the Garlic Butter
In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you taste-test it with a spoon… well, I’m not judging.
Step 3. Load Up the Bread
Want To Save This Recipe?
Generously spread the garlic butter onto each slice. Like, don’t be shy—go heavy-handed. Then sprinkle on the mozzarella until it looks borderline ridiculous. A little parsley on top? Chef’s kiss.
Step 4. Into the
Arrange the slices in your
- Set to 350°F
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden
No need to preheat. We’re not about that life today.
Step 5. Serve It Hot (Like, Right Away)
This bread waits for no one. Serve it while it’s hot, crispy, and melty. I like dunking mine in marinara, but ranch, pesto, or even a drizzle of hot honey? Game-changer.
Storage Options:
- Store: Pop cooled slices into an airtight container. Good in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Back in the
air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. It’s like fresh again. - Freeze for Later: Assemble the garlic bread (don’t air fry it yet), freeze it flat, then bag it up. When cravings hit, air fry straight from frozen at 350°F for 5-6 minutes.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Cheese Swap: Go wild—cheddar, provolone, even feta if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey. Trust me.
- Herby Goodness: Throw some Italian seasoning into the butter for extra flavor.
- Vegan Vibes: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Sub in your fave gluten-free bread—everything else is naturally GF.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Garlic Cheese Bread?
This
- Pasta: Spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo—this bread is the perfect sidekick.
- Soups: Tomato basil, minestrone, or broccoli cheddar. Dipping heaven.
- Salads: Caesar or a crisp mixed greens salad to balance the carbs.
- Game Day App: Serve with marinara and ranch for dipping. People will swarm.
- Charcuterie Board Addition: Because carbs belong everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely. Just mince it super fine and mix it into the butter. But be warned—fresh garlic burns faster, so keep an eye on it in the
Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally! Butter and cheese your bread slices, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. Or freeze them for later (see freezing tips above).
Why is my bread soggy?
Probably overcrowding in the
So there you have it—crispy, cheesy, buttery
Tried it? Loved it? Added a wild twist? Drop a comment below—I love seeing your creations!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Air Fryer Garlic Cheese Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread or French baguette Italian preferred for fluffier texture
- 1 cup 2 sticks salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley optional, for garnish
- Marinara sauce optional, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the Italian bread or French baguette into pieces approximately 2 inches thick. This ensures a sturdy base for the toppings while maintaining a soft interior.
Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until a smooth, spreadable consistency is achieved.
Assemble the Bread:
- Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over each bread slice. Top each slice with an ample amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. If desired, sprinkle dried parsley for color and added flavor.
Air Fry:
- Arrange the prepared slices in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F (175°C).Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.Preheating the air fryer is not necessary.
Serve:
- Remove the bread from the air fryer and serve immediately. Accompany with marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
