Name: Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 loaf Italian or French bread, sliced into 3/4-1 inch thick slices; 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Tablespoon prepared basil pesto; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup shredded Colby jack cheese; Italian seasoning (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

This incredibly delicious Air Fryer Garlic Bread transforms a simple loaf into a mouthwatering treat in just minutes! With its perfect crispy exterior, gooey melted cheese, and rich garlic flavor, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality garlic bread right in your kitchen. It’s the ultimate quick side dish that pairs perfectly with nearly any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lightning Fast: From start to finish, you’ll have perfectly toasted, cheesy garlic bread in under 10 minutes – faster than preheating a conventional oven!
Irresistible Texture: The air fryer creates the perfect contrast between the crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior that’s simply impossible to achieve with other cooking methods.
Customizable: Whether you prefer extra cheesy, herb-forward, or classic garlic bread, this recipe easily adapts to your preferences.
No Heating Up The House: Unlike using the oven, the air fryer won’t warm up your kitchen – perfect for summer months when you’re craving comfort food without the heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Italian or French Bread: The foundation of great garlic bread – these sturdy, crusty breads hold up well to the toppings while maintaining that perfect chew. Slice it thick (¾-1 inch) for the best results.
Butter: Creates that rich, indulgent base that soaks into the bread. Always use real butter for authentic flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides that unmistakable aromatic punch that defines great garlic bread. Don’t skimp here!
Basil Pesto: This secret ingredient adds incredible depth of flavor with herbs, pine nuts and olive oil all in one convenient addition.
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides that perfect mild, melty texture that stretches beautifully with each bite.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty bite that complements the garlic perfectly.
Colby Jack Cheese: Brings a creamy element with a slight tang to round out the cheese blend.
Italian Seasoning: Optional, but adds a wonderful herbal note that elevates the entire dish.
Fresh Parsley: Brightens the rich flavors and adds a pop of color for presentation.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Love to experiment? Try these delicious twists:

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for heat-lovers.
Extra Savory: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of grated Romano cheese to the butter blend.
Mediterranean Style: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the cheese topping.
Herb Lover’s Dream: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the butter mixture.
Pizza Bread: Top with a little pizza sauce under the cheese and add pepperoni slices.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and basil pesto. Mix thoroughly until well integrated. This flavor-packed mixture is what transforms ordinary bread into something extraordinary.

Step 2: Apply the Butter Mixture

Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture onto each bread slice, making sure to cover from edge to edge. The butter will soak into the bread as it cooks, flavoring it throughout.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Blend

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, parmesan, and Colby jack cheeses. Mix well to create an evenly distributed cheese blend that will melt beautifully.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle a generous portion of the cheese mixture onto each buttered bread slice. If using, add a light dusting of Italian seasoning over the cheese.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Place bread slices in your air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and edges are golden brown. Work in batches if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot bread and serve immediately for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skimp on Butter: The butter mixture is your flavor base – apply it generously for the best taste.
Watch Closely: Air fryers can brown food quickly, so check after 3 minutes to prevent burning.
Fresh Garlic Matters: Pre-minced jarred garlic doesn’t deliver the same punch as freshly minced cloves.
Cheese Directly from Block: Freshly shredded cheese melts much better than pre-packaged shredded cheese with anti-caking agents.
Slice Evenly: Uniform bread slices ensure even cooking throughout.

How to Serve

Air fryer garlic bread makes the perfect companion to countless meals:

Perfect Pairings:

Serve alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine alfredo
Great with soups, especially tomato or minestrone
Delicious with salads to make a complete meal
Excellent with grilled meats or roasted vegetables

Dipping Options:

Consider serving with marinara sauce, alfredo, or extra virgin olive oil with balsamic for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for slightly longer freshness.

Freezing

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Prepare the garlic bread but don’t cook it. Place slices on a baking sheet, freeze for an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. You can also microwave for 15-20 seconds, though you’ll lose some crispness.

FAQs

Can I use different bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Italian and French bread are traditional choices, sourdough, ciabatta, or even a rustic country loaf work wonderfully. The key is choosing a bread with enough structure to support the toppings without becoming soggy.

My air fryer is small – how can I make this recipe work?
Work in batches! It’s better to cook fewer slices at a time than to overcrowd the basket. Keep the first batch warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish the remaining slices. You can also prepare all the slices ahead and then cook them as needed.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Many brands now make excellent melting vegan cheeses that work perfectly in this recipe. The garlic and herb flavors will still shine through beautifully.

How can I prevent the cheese from burning in the air fryer?
If you find your cheese browns too quickly, try lowering the temperature to 325°F and extending the cooking time slightly. Also, placing the cheese-topped bread just a bit farther from the heating element (using a lower rack if your air fryer has multiple levels) can help.

This Air Fryer Garlic Bread is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. In just minutes, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing side that combines nostalgic comfort with modern convenience. The contrast between the crispy edges, chewy center, and gooey cheese is absolutely irresistible. Give this recipe a try tonight – I guarantee it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire!