Air-Fryer Garlic Bread: Is It Possible?

Garlic bread is a popular side dish, but what if you want to make it in an air fryer? Well, you're in luck! It turns out that making garlic bread in an air fryer is not only possible, but it's also a quick and easy way to get delicious, crispy, and buttery garlic bread.

The basic process involves spreading a garlic butter mixture on slices of bread, such as a baguette or Italian loaf, and then air-frying for just a few minutes until golden and crispy. The air fryer circulates heat, resulting in bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

You can also cook frozen garlic bread in an air fryer, with similar delicious results. Simply place the frozen garlic bread in the air fryer basket and cook for around 12 minutes at 360°F (180°C) until golden brown.

So, if you're looking for a fast and tasty side dish, air fryer garlic bread is definitely worth trying!

How to make garlic bread in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Bread (baguette, ciabatta, French bread, Italian bread, or any crusty bread)
• Butter (salted or unsalted)
• Garlic (minced or powder)
• Cheese (Parmesan, mozzarella, or any other melty cheese)
• Italian seasoning or dried parsley
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method

• Prepare the garlic butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, Italian seasoning or dried parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). You can also add grated Parmesan cheese to this mixture for extra flavour.
• Slice the bread: Cut the bread into halves or slices that will fit easily into your air fryer.
• Spread the garlic butter: Brush or spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread.
• Add cheese (optional) : If desired, sprinkle your favourite melty cheese on top of the bread.
• Air fry: Place the bread into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each slice for air circulation. Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, until the bread is golden and crispy. If you are adding cheese, put it on top for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
• Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the air fryer and cut into slices, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

• Preheat your air fryer to get crispier bread and ensure even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to allow for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Adjust the cooking time to your desired level of crispiness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days and reheat in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes.
• You can also freeze garlic bread before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, spread the garlic butter on the bread and freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen, following the same instructions as above, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

What type of bread to use

When making garlic bread in an air fryer, the type of bread you use is important. You want to use a bread that will get crispy in the air fryer, but also hold up to the butter and toppings without becoming soggy.

A few good options for bread to use in your air fryer garlic bread include:

• Baguette: A French baguette is a classic choice for garlic bread and works well in the air fryer. Cut the baguette into slices or halves that will fit in your air fryer.
• Ciabatta: Ciabatta bread has a crispy crust and soft interior, making it a good choice for garlic bread. You can cut it into slices or halves, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Italian bread: This type of bread has a thick crust and chewy texture that works well for garlic bread. Look for a loaf that will fit in your air fryer, or cut it to size.
• Sourdough: Thick slices of sourdough bread can also be used for garlic bread in the air fryer. The tangy flavour of sourdough can complement the garlic and butter nicely.
• Texas toast-style slices: These thick slices of bread are often used for garlic toast, and they work well in the air fryer.

When choosing a bread for your air fryer garlic bread, look for a loaf or slices that will fit comfortably in your air fryer with a little room for air circulation. You may need to cut the bread to size or cook it in batches. Also, avoid using frozen bread, as it can become soggy. Instead, opt for fresh, room-temperature bread for the best results.

How to store garlic bread

Storing garlic bread the right way is essential to keep it fresh and tasty. Here are some tips on how to store garlic bread:

Storing Fresh Garlic Bread

If you have freshly made garlic bread, it is best to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep it fresh and help retain its flavour and texture. You can store it this way for up to 3-5 days, depending on the recipe.

Freezing Garlic Bread

If you want to store garlic bread for longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the garlic bread cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, simply reheat it in the air fryer or oven without thawing.

Storing Leftover Garlic Bread

If you have leftover garlic bread from a meal, it is best to store it in an airtight container or ziplock bag. This will keep it from drying out and becoming hard. You can store it at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a day or two, or in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.

Reheating Garlic Bread

When you're ready to eat your stored garlic bread, there are a few ways to reheat it. You can toast it in the oven or toaster, or place it in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. Just be careful not to overdo it, as garlic bread can go from warmed to burnt very quickly.

How to reheat garlic bread

Using an Air Fryer

If you have leftover garlic bread, you can reheat it in an air fryer to get it warm and toasty again. Set your air fryer to 350°F and place the garlic bread inside for about 2 minutes. You can also reheat frozen garlic bread in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 360°F and cook the frozen garlic bread for 12 minutes.

Using an Oven

Alternatively, you can reheat garlic bread in the oven. Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F and bake the garlic bread for 8 minutes.

Storing Garlic Bread

To store garlic bread, wrap it in aluminium foil and place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to 4 days. You can also freeze garlic bread for up to 3 months.

How to cook frozen garlic bread in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Frozen garlic bread
• Butter (optional)
• Salt (optional)
• Cheese (optional)

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Knife
• Air fryer tongs

Method:

• Take your frozen garlic bread out of the freezer.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F–380°F (180°C).
• If your frozen garlic bread is too big to fit in the air fryer, cut it into smaller pieces.
• Place the bread inside the air fryer basket. Make sure there is space around each piece so that the hot air can circulate.
• Cook for 5–12 minutes, until the bread is golden and crispy. If your air fryer starts to smoke, add a little water to the bottom of the basket.
• If you are adding cheese, do so after 5 minutes of cooking, and let the bread sit in the residual heat of the air fryer to melt the cheese.
• If you are reheating garlic bread, cook for 1–2 minutes.
• Serve immediately.

Tips:

• You don't need to defrost the garlic bread before cooking.
• If you are cooking multiple batches, the second batch may cook faster, so reduce the heat and keep an eye on it.
• You don't need to add oil to cook the bread.
• You can add extra herbs, garlic, or olive oil to enhance the flavour.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Frequently asked questions