Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is one of those sides my family never says no to — it disappears the moment it hits the table. This Air Fryer Garlic Bread is my go-to because it’s quick, golden, and perfectly crisp without heating up the whole oven. If you love easy air fryer recipes, this one will become a staple. I especially enjoy serving it alongside pasta dishes like my Penne Arrabbiata — that spicy sauce with buttery garlic bread is unbeatable.

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

What You’ll Need

You don’t need much for this one — just simple pantry ingredients. Here’s what I use:

  • Bread: A baguette, Italian loaf, or even leftover sandwich bread works. I love a crusty loaf for extra crunch.
  • Butter: Softened, so it spreads easily.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced is my favorite because it really shines.
  • Parsley: Fresh or dried — both add that classic flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese: Optional, but I always sprinkle some for a cheesy finish.
  • Air fryer: Any size will do, just don’t overcrowd the basket.

Tip: I learned from making Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup that garlic bread really shines when paired with a comforting bowl of soup.


Step-by-Step Guide to Air Fryer Garlic Bread

This is truly beginner-friendly. Let’s walk through it together.

I often make this while my Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is cooking — they pair beautifully!

Step 1 — Slice the bread

Cut your loaf into even slices. I like them about 1 inch thick so they’re crispy outside but soft inside.

Sliced baguette on cutting board for air fryer garlic bread.

Step 2 — Make the garlic butter

Mix softened butter, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan in a bowl. Taste and adjust the garlic to your liking — I’m heavy-handed because we love garlic here.

Garlic butter mixture with parsley and Parmesan in bowl

Step 3 — Spread generously

Coat each slice with a nice thick layer of garlic butter. Don’t skimp — it’s what makes the bread golden.

Bread slices spread with garlic butter for air fryer garlic bread.

Step 4 — Air fry until golden

Place slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 350°F for 4–6 minutes, until bubbly and crisp. Keep an eye on them — they go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Garlic bread slices placed in air fryer basket ready to cook

Step 5 — Serve hot

Enjoy immediately! Garlic bread waits for no one.

Crispy golden air fryer garlic bread fresh from the basket

Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

  • Use salted butter for more flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Try shredded mozzarella for a melty version.
  • Use dried Italian seasoning instead of parsley.
  • Whole wheat bread works great too.
  • Make ahead: mix garlic butter and refrigerate up to 3 days.
  • Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra crispness.
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer for 2 minutes.

Serving Ideas & Variations

Garlic bread goes with just about everything, but here are my favorites:

  • With spaghetti or lasagna night.
  • Alongside soups like tomato or minestrone.
  • As a base for quick garlic bread pizza (kids love this).
  • With grilled meats for a fun twist.
  • Add mozzarella and make cheesy garlic bread.
  • Spread with pesto instead of garlic butter for variety.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

  • Burning the bread: Air fryers cook fast — check at 4 minutes.
  • Too dry: Use enough butter so it stays moist inside.
  • Overcrowding the basket: Work in batches for even crisping.
  • Using cold butter: It won’t spread — always soften first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make air fryer garlic bread without cheese?

Yes! Just skip the Parmesan. The butter and garlic alone give plenty of flavor.

Can I use frozen bread?

Absolutely. Just spread the garlic butter on frozen slices and air fry a few extra minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled garlic bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

Can I prepare garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, spread the butter mixture on bread slices, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.


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If you’re exploring more crispy creations, check out all my air fryer recipes.

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread made in minutes using the air fryer — the perfect side dish for pasta, soups, or salads.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 11 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 baguette or Italian loaf
  • ½ cup butter softened
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp parsley fresh or dried
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese optional

Method
 

  1. Slice bread into 1-inch slices.
    Sliced baguette on cutting board for air fryer garlic bread.
  2. Mix butter, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan.
    Garlic butter mixture with parsley and Parmesan in bowl
  3. Spread mixture over bread slices.
    Bread slices spread with garlic butter for air fryer garlic bread.
  4. Place in air fryer basket in single layer.
    Garlic bread slices placed in air fryer basket ready to cook
  5. Serve hot.
    Crispy golden air fryer garlic bread fresh from the basket

Notes

Adjust garlic to taste.
Keep an eye while cooking — timing varies by air fryer model.

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