This is garlic bread made in the air fryer. A loaf of Italian bread is split lengthwise and spread with a mixture of softened butter, garlic, mozzarella and Parmesan, then air fried cut side up until the cheese melts and the edges turn golden. Prep takes 10 minutes and the air fryer takes about 8, so it is ready in 18 minutes. The recipe serves 4.
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The air fryer gives crisp edges without deep frying, and the cheese goes into the butter mixture rather than on top, so it spreads in one step.
What Goes on the Bread
The full amounts are in the recipe card at the bottom. Here is what each ingredient does.
- Italian bread (1 loaf): a sturdy base with a soft inside and a crisp crust, good at soaking up the garlic butter.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): gives richness and helps the bread turn golden and crisp in the air fryer.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): the main flavor, and a bold one.
- Mozzarella (1 cup, shredded): melts into a gooey, stretchy layer. Its mild flavor lets the garlic come through.
- Parmesan (1/4 cup, grated): adds a nutty, salty note that goes with the mozzarella.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): a bit of color and a fresh, herbal taste.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): to season the garlic and cheese.
Air Frying It
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps the bread cook evenly, the cheese melt well and the crust brown, so give the machine a few minutes.
Mix the butter, garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, mozzarella and Parmesan in a bowl. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and spread the mixture evenly over each half. Put the bread in the air fryer basket cut side up and air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the edges are golden brown. Let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Other breads such as a French baguette or ciabatta also work. Adjust the cooking time if the bread is thicker or thinner.
Ways to Change It
- Herbs: add basil, oregano or a little rosemary to the butter mixture.
- Heat: a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the garlic butter.
- Other cheeses: cheddar, gouda or blue cheese in place of the mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses.
- Toppings: sliced tomatoes, jalapeños or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking.
- Vegan: plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese.
What to Serve With It
Marinara sauce is the classic dip. Spicy arrabbiata or a creamy Alfredo dip also work. The bread goes next to pasta, soups or salads, and it makes an appetizer on its own. Extra fresh parsley, basil or oregano on top just before serving adds color.
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back the crispness.
Nutrition per Serving
One slice has approximately 320 calories, 25 grams of fat (15 grams saturated), 60 milligrams of cholesterol, 350 milligrams of sodium, 30 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, 1 gram of sugar and 7 grams of protein. These are estimates.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes. French baguette and ciabatta both work. Adjust the cooking time for the thickness of the bread.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes. Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese. The taste and texture will be similar.
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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team
The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us
Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Bread
Ingredients
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, parsley, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise and spread the butter mixture evenly on each half.
Place the bread in the air fryer basket, cut side up.
Air fry for about 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the air fryer, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Notes
This recipe can be easily modified with different herbs or cheeses according to your preference.
Serve with marinara sauce for dipping for an extra treat.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | 1 slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 calories |
| Sugar Content | 1g |
| Sodium Content | 350mg |
| Fat Content | 25g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 15g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 8g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 30g |
| Fiber Content | 1g |
| Protein Content | 7g |
| Cholesterol Content | 60mg |