If you love garlic bread but want something quick, easy, and gloriously golden, this Air Fryer Garlic Bread is about to sweep you off your feet. Imagine perfectly crisp edges, soft buttery centers, and rich garlicky flavor in every bite, all ready in less than 15 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re making an Italian-inspired dinner or just need an irresistible snack, this air fryer marvel checks every box for flavor and convenience. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday staples, each ingredient in this Air Fryer Garlic Bread plays an essential role, from crunch to herbaceous aroma. Choosing quality ingredients ensures you’re rewarded with the ultimate texture, color, and taste from every slice.
- French or Italian bread: Offers the ideal base, turning beautifully golden and crisp while staying soft inside.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads easily and soaks into the bread for a rich, creamy flavor.
- Fresh garlic: Adds unmistakable punch and depth you simply can’t get from powders.
- Fresh parsley (or dried): Gives a pop of freshness and lively color that makes each piece extra appealing.
- Salt: Brings all the savory notes together and heightens the classic garlic flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat to balance the richness of the butter.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Provides an extra layer of umami and a delightfully crispy finish on top.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Bread
Step 1: Mix the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, blend together the softened butter, freshly minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined—this scented compound butter is the soul of your Air Fryer Garlic Bread and makes every slice sing with garlicky goodness.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Slice your French or Italian loaf in half lengthwise to create ample surface area for all that buttery flavor. Lay both halves on a cutting board, ready to become delicious vessels for your homemade garlic butter.
Step 3: Spread the Butter Mixture
Using a butter knife or spatula, evenly slather the garlic butter mixture over the open faces of each bread half. Want to ramp up the flavor? Sprinkle grated Parmesan generously over the top for a cheesy, slightly crispy upgrade.
Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Place the prepared bread into the basket of your air fryer, butter side up. Trim the halves or cut into smaller pieces if needed for a perfect fit. Air fry at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes, keeping an eye out for those crisp, golden edges and bubbling butter. That fantastic aroma means your Air Fryer Garlic Bread is almost ready!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once done, carefully remove the hot, fragrant bread, slice it into manageable pieces, and serve right away. Enjoy the sizzling crunch and glorious aroma that can only mean: it’s garlic bread time!
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Garnishes
Elevate your Air Fryer Garlic Bread with a scatter of fresh chopped parsley or a little more Parmesan right as it comes out of the air fryer. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a unique twist without overpowering that signature garlicky zing.
Side Dishes
This versatile bread is the ultimate companion to so many meals. Serve it alongside creamy pastas, hearty soups, crisp salads, or even a classic marinara for dipping. Air Fryer Garlic Bread is just as perfect at the dinner table as it is at a cozy family movie night.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, cut the bread into thin strips and arrange in a bread basket lined with a linen napkin for a rustic touch. Or, slice into small bites and serve as garlic bread dippers with a warm marinara or herbed butter for an instant appetizer platter. The fun is in the presentation—and everyone loves a beautiful bread board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any slices left (which is a big “if” in my house), simply wrap them in foil or place in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to one day, or refrigerate for up to three days. This keeps your Air Fryer Garlic Bread fresh and ready for round two.
Freezing
For longer storage, assemble the bread as directed but don’t air fry it. Wrap the prepared slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. When you’re craving garlicky goodness, just pop frozen slices straight into your air fryer and bake until golden and toasty—no thawing needed!
Reheating
To bring leftover Air Fryer Garlic Bread back to its crisp, buttery glory, simply pop slices into the air fryer at 320°F for 2 to 3 minutes. This revives the texture perfectly and brings back all those mouthwatering aromas with zero hassle.
FAQs
Do I have to use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic makes a world of difference in both flavor and aroma, but if you’re in a pinch, granulated garlic or garlic powder can work—just use about half a teaspoon as a substitute.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure not to crowd the air fryer; you may need to work in batches so each slice gets golden and crisp. It’s easy to scale up for gatherings or hungry crowds.
What if my bread doesn’t fit in the air fryer?
No worries—just trim the bread into smaller pieces or slices so it nestles nicely in the basket. Smaller sections even cook faster and get extra crispy edges, so it’s a win-win!
How do I make the bread extra cheesy?
Simply add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses along with (or instead of) Parmesan before air frying. The cheese melts gorgeously and delivers irresistible stretch and flavor.
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Definitely! Most gluten-free breads make a great substitute and brown up beautifully in the air fryer. Just keep an eye on them, as different breads may toast more quickly.
Final Thoughts
If you want to transform the simple joy of garlic bread into something even more crave-worthy, go ahead and give Air Fryer Garlic Bread a try. With this easy method, you’ll get crispy, buttery slices every single time—and probably a few extra kitchen admirers too! Don’t wait for a special occasion; your next great bread basket is just an air fry away.
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Air Fryer Garlic Bread – a quick and easy side dish or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields buttery, garlicky bread with a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Serve it warm for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Ingredients
Bread:
- 1/2 loaf French bread or Italian bread (sliced in half lengthwise)
Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Mix Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Spread Butter: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread, if desired.
- Air Fry: Place the bread in the air fryer basket, cut side up. Air fry at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Slice the garlic bread and serve warm.
Notes
- For a cheesy version, top with shredded mozzarella before air frying.
- This recipe can also be made with baguette slices for individual servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg