Air-Fryer Garlic Bread (Crispy, Buttery & Easy)
Air-fryer garlic bread is a quick, foolproof way to get that golden, crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior without heating up the oven. Perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or salads, this method is faster and cleaner than traditional baking, while still delivering restaurant-quality flavor.
Whether you’re serving a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, air-fryer garlic bread is ready in just a few minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy outside, soft and fluffy inside
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Bursting with garlic and herb flavor
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Ready in under 10 minutes
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Minimal cleanup—no oven needed
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Perfect for any pasta night or appetizer
Ingredients
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1 small baguette or half a French loaf
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4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
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½ tsp salt (optional)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
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In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
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Optional: Stir in Parmesan cheese for a cheesy garlic flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
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Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
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Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Step 3: Air-Fry the Bread
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Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes.
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Place the bread cut-side up in the air fryer basket.
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Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy on the edges.
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Optional: For extra crispiness, switch to air-fryer mode at 200°C (390°F) for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Step 4: Serve
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Slice into serving pieces.
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Serve immediately alongside pasta, soups, or as a snack.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fryer Garlic Bread
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Don’t overcrowd: If your loaf is large, cut into halves or quarters.
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Use softened butter: Easier to spread and mixes better with garlic.
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Adjust cooking time: Air-fryer models vary—check at 4–5 minutes.
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For cheesy garlic bread: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top before air-frying.
Variations
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Herb Garlic Bread: Add oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the butter mix.
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Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter.
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Garlic Knots: Roll small pieces of dough with garlic butter and air-fry for bite-sized snacks.
Make-Ahead & Storage
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Garlic butter can be prepared 1–2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
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Air-fried garlic bread is best served fresh; leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 2–3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
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With pasta dishes like spaghetti, fettuccine, or lasagna
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As a side for soups like tomato, minestrone, or creamy potato
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Paired with salads for a light lunch or dinner
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Served with dips like marinara, pesto, or cheese sauce
Final Thoughts
Air-fryer garlic bread is fast, easy, and irresistibly delicious. With a crisp exterior, soft buttery interior, and fragrant garlic flavor, it’s the perfect side for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. Quick, convenient, and foolproof, this recipe will become a kitchen favorite.