Crispy & Aromatic Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread: Your Ultimate Quick & Easy Recipe
Air fryer roasted garlic bread elevates a simple classic to an extraordinary culinary experience. The nutty, rich flavors of slow-roasted garlic, combined with vibrant fresh herbs, transform humble garlic bread into a gourmet side dish without requiring extensive effort. Best of all, your air fryer makes this delightful recipe incredibly quick and easy to prepare!
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About This Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread
There’s hardly a meal that isn’t made better with a warm, fragrant piece of garlic bread. It’s the ultimate comfort side, instantly transforming any pasta dish or soup into a more satisfying experience. While traditional oven-baked garlic bread is fantastic, this air fryer version takes convenience and flavor to new heights, making it an absolute game-changer in your kitchen.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the inclusion of sweet, caramelized roasted garlic cloves. Unlike the sharp, pungent bite of raw garlic, roasted garlic offers a mellow, nutty, and subtly sweet flavor that is incredibly sophisticated and addictive. Coupled with aromatic fresh herbs, this garlic bread isn’t just a side; it’s a star in its own right!
Why the Air Fryer is a Game-Changer for Garlic Bread
The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier and often faster alternative to many traditional methods. For garlic bread, it’s particularly brilliant. The rapid hot air circulation ensures an incredibly crispy exterior and a perfectly soft, buttery interior in a fraction of the time it takes an oven to preheat and bake. You’ll achieve that coveted golden-brown crunch without the wait or the need to heat up your entire kitchen, especially on warm days.
This method also ensures even toasting, resulting in consistent crispiness across every piece, a feat sometimes challenging to achieve in a conventional oven. Plus, the focused heat means the butter and garlic mixture melts beautifully into the bread, infusing every bite with maximum flavor. If you haven’t yet tried making garlic bread in your air fryer, prepare to be amazed by its speed, efficiency, and superior texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Garlic Bread
Creating truly exceptional air fryer roasted garlic bread starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best:
- Bread: While many types of bread work for garlic bread, I highly recommend using a French baguette for its crisp crust and soft interior. Specifically, demi-baguettes are fantastic because their thinner profile allows more pieces to fit into the air fryer basket at once, ensuring efficient cooking. You can also use a full-sized baguette, ciabatta, or even thick slices of rustic bread or Texas toast. The key is to cut your bread into pieces that fit comfortably in a single layer in your air fryer.
- Butter: Always opt for unsalted butter when making garlic bread. This gives you complete control over the saltiness of the finished product. Using a high-quality butter, such as Kerrygold, genuinely makes a difference in flavor, lending a richer, creamier base for your garlic spread. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Roasted Garlic: This is the star ingredient that elevates this recipe! Roasted garlic cloves have a mellow, sweet, and nutty flavor, completely different from raw garlic’s sharp pungency. If you don’t have roasted garlic on hand, you can quickly whip some up using my air fryer roasted garlic recipe, making the entire process efficient and oven-free. The unique flavor profile of roasted garlic truly makes this bread stand out.
- Herbs: Fresh basil and fresh oregano are my go-to herbs for this recipe. Their vibrant, earthy notes beautifully complement the roasted garlic and butter. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried versions, but I’ve provided a conversion in the FAQs below to ensure you get the right intensity of flavor. Fresh herbs, however, offer a brighter taste and aroma.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A small pinch of red pepper flakes is entirely optional, but it adds a subtle warmth and a gentle kick that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. If you prefer a milder taste or are serving to those sensitive to spice, feel free to omit them.
- Cheese (Optional): For an extra layer of decadence, add cheese! A blend of shredded mozzarella for gooeyness and freshly grated Parmesan for its sharp, salty notes creates a perfect cheesy crust. You can also use other cheeses like provolone or an Italian blend. Whether you prefer classic garlic bread or a cheesy version, the choice is yours!
Equipment Essentials
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and minimal equipment requirements. You truly only need a few key items to bring this delicious air fryer garlic bread to life:
- Air Fryer: This is the star of the show! I personally use and highly recommend the Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer for its consistent performance and user-friendly interface. The Phillips Premium Air Fryer is another excellent choice known for its reliability and quality results. Any good quality air fryer with sufficient basket space will work perfectly, but these models tend to offer superior and even cooking.
- Small Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your softened butter, roasted garlic, and herbs into a wonderfully aromatic spread.
- Spoon or Spatula: To easily mix your garlic butter and slather it generously onto your bread slices.
That’s it! With just these basic tools, you’re ready to create impressive, flavorful garlic bread in minutes.
How to Make Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread in Minutes
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly crispy and flavorful air fryer roasted garlic bread:
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Butter Spread
First, if your air fryer model requires preheating, set it to 350˚F (175˚C). While it preheats, gather your ingredients. In a small bowl, combine your softened unsalted butter with the mashed roasted garlic cloves, freshly chopped basil, fresh oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire a little heat. Stir everything together thoroughly until you have a smooth, well-combined, and fragrant butter mixture. This is where all the incredible flavor comes from!
Next, prepare your bread. Slice your baguette (or chosen bread) crosswise into pieces approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick, or sized to fit comfortably in a single layer within your air fryer basket.
Step 2: Air Fry for Golden Crispiness
Generously slather the roasted garlic butter mixture onto the cut sides of each piece of bread. Don’t be shy; a good amount of butter is key to moist and flavorful garlic bread! Arrange the buttered bread slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket or stack the pieces, as this prevents proper air circulation and won’t give you that desirable crispy texture. If necessary, cook in batches.
Air fry at 350˚F (175˚C) for 6 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last couple of minutes, as air fryer cooking times can vary slightly depending on your specific model and the thickness of your bread.
Step 3: Add Optional Cheese for Extra Indulgence
If you’re making cheesy garlic bread, combine the shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan in a small bowl. In the last 1 to 2 minutes of the air frying cycle, open your air fryer, sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the bread pieces, and close the basket to finish cooking. The cheese should melt beautifully and become slightly golden.
Once cooked, carefully remove the hot garlic bread from the air fryer. If you used larger bread pieces, slice them into smaller, more manageable servings. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color and extra flavor, and serve immediately. Enjoy the irresistible aroma and taste!
Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Garlic Bread
To ensure your air fryer roasted garlic bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips and ideas in mind:
- Adjust the Cooking Time: Air fryer models can vary in their heating intensity. Always keep a close eye on your garlic bread, especially during the last few minutes. If you prefer your bread extra crispy, add another minute or two to the total cooking time. For a softer texture, you might reduce it slightly.
- Preheat if Required: Some air fryer models perform best when preheated. Check your appliance’s manual and preheat to 350˚F (175˚C) if necessary. Preheating ensures more even cooking and consistent results from the start.
- Single Layer Only: This is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness. Never stack bread pieces on top of each other in the air fryer. The hot air needs to circulate freely around each piece to toast it evenly. If your air fryer basket is small, work in batches. Overcrowding will result in steamed, rather than crispy, bread.
- Serve Immediately: Garlic bread is at its absolute best when served fresh out of the air fryer. The exterior will be wonderfully crispy, and the interior warm and soft. Time your garlic bread preparation to coincide with when your main meal is ready to hit the table.
- Use Homemade Roasted Garlic: While store-bought roasted garlic is an option, making your own air fryer roasted garlic is incredibly simple and yields superior flavor. The fresh, sweet notes of homemade roasted garlic will truly elevate your bread.
- Uniform Slices: Cut your bread into pieces of similar thickness and size. This helps ensure that all pieces cook at the same rate, preventing some from burning while others are still undercooked.
- Don’t Forget Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or oregano after cooking not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor and aroma.
More tasty bread recipes to check out: Turkish Bread | No Knead Overnight Bread | No Yeast White Bread
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Garlic Bread
How long does garlic bread take in the air fryer?
One of the best advantages of using an air fryer for garlic bread is its incredible speed! It typically takes only about 6 to 7 minutes of total cooking time. Since air fryers heat up much faster than conventional ovens, you can go from prep to serving in as little as 10-15 minutes, making this an ideal last-minute side dish.
Do I have to use roasted garlic for this recipe?
While I highly recommend using roasted garlic for its superior depth of flavor—offering a sweet, mellow, and nutty profile that truly makes this garlic bread special—it’s not strictly mandatory. If you’re pressed for time or prefer a more pungent garlic kick, you can certainly substitute with minced fresh garlic. For this recipe, you would need about 6 cloves of minced garlic to achieve a similar intensity. Just be aware that the flavor will be sharper and less sweet than with roasted garlic.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you absolutely can use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available. Fresh basil and oregano provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor and aroma, but dried herbs will still deliver a delicious result. As a general rule for substitution, dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh. For this recipe, if you’re using dried herbs, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano instead of the 1 tablespoon of fresh each.
Can I freeze this garlic bread?
Freezing garlic bread is a fantastic way to prep ahead! I recommend freezing it before cooking for the best results. Once you’ve spread the butter mixture onto the bread pieces, arrange them in a single layer (buttered side up) on a plate or baking sheet and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 3 to 4 hours. After they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. If you need to stack them, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
To cook from frozen, simply place the buttered bread pieces in your preheated air fryer at 350˚F (175˚C) for approximately 7 to 8 minutes. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking.
What temperature do you reheat garlic bread in the air fryer?
The air fryer is also excellent for reheating leftover garlic bread, bringing back its crispy texture. Here’s how:
- From the refrigerator (already cooked): Reheat the garlic bread in the air fryer at 350˚F (175˚C) for 2 to 3 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
- From the freezer (already cooked): If your garlic bread was previously cooked and then frozen, reheat it at 350˚F (175˚C) for about 5 to 6 minutes, ensuring it’s hot throughout and crisp.
- From the freezer (uncooked, buttered): As mentioned above, cook these from frozen at 350˚F (175˚C) for about 7 to 8 minutes. Add cheese during the final 1-2 minutes if desired.
Avoid microwaving cooked garlic bread for reheating if you want to retain its crunchiness; while quick, it tends to make bread soft and chewy.
Need more inspiration for side dishes? Check out my side dish recipes page!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread
Roasted garlic bread is one of the most versatile side dishes you can make! Its rich, savory flavor and crispy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. It’s an easy, carb-loaded indulgence that complements a wide array of dishes.
Beyond being a fantastic side, you can also serve it as a delicious appetizer. Pair it with marinated mozzarella balls, creamy whipped ricotta, or even a simple bowl of basil oil for dipping. The possibilities are endless!
However, my favorite way to enjoy garlic bread is undeniably with a hearty, saucy pasta dish. There’s nothing quite like dipping a piece of warm, buttery garlic bread into a rich sauce to soak up every last morsel of flavor. Here are some of our top recipe recommendations that pair wonderfully with this air fryer garlic bread:
- Pasta Dishes:
- Gnocchi Bolognese Bake: The ultimate comfort food, marrying all your favorite Italian flavors in one satisfying skillet.
- Creamy Sausage Kale Rigatoni: An effortless meal with a delightful spicy kick, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Gigi Hadid Pasta: A viral sensation for a reason, this creamy, spicy vodka sauce pasta is a must-try.
- Cheesy Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake: Ideal for autumn, with pumpkin and sage elevating a humble gnocchi to a seasonal masterpiece.
- Simple & Quick Pasta Napolitana: Comes together in just 20 minutes with minimal ingredients, making it an excellent fast meal.
- Top a big plate of pasta with the best Gluten-Free Meatballs for a complete Italian feast.
- Soups: Dip your crispy garlic bread into your favorite soup for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew
- Creamy Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup
- Classic Instant Pot Tomato Soup
How to Store and Reheat Your Garlic Bread
Proper storage and reheating ensure your delicious air fryer roasted garlic bread remains enjoyable long after it’s made:
- Store: Leftover cooked garlic bread should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Beyond that, it’s best to freeze it.
- Reheat:
- Air Fryer (Recommended): For best results and to regain that crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 350˚F (175˚C) for 2-3 minutes from the fridge, or 5-6 minutes if reheating cooked-then-frozen bread.
- Oven: You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 350˚F (175˚C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
- Microwave (Not Recommended for Crispiness): While you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds to warm it up, it will lose its desired crunch and become soft.
- Freeze (Uncooked): As detailed in the FAQ section, you can easily freeze buttered but uncooked garlic bread. Simply spread the butter mixture on the bread pieces, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid (a few hours). Transfer to an airtight container, using parchment paper between layers if stacking. Air fry directly from frozen at 350˚F (175˚C) for 7-8 minutes, adding cheese in the last 1-2 minutes if desired.
More Garlicky Recipes to Explore
If you’re a true garlic lover, there’s always more garlicky goodness to discover! Here are a few more recipes to satisfy your cravings:
- For a quick and satisfying meal, this Roasted Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta comes together in just 20 minutes.
- Ensure you never run out of that wonderful mellow flavor by making Air Fryer Roasted Garlic easily and quickly at home.
- These Garlic Butter Oven Roasted Carrots and Potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs well with almost anything.
Finally, if you make this air fryer roasted garlic bread recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing when you all try my recipes, and I make sure to respond to every single comment. Your feedback is invaluable!
Feel free to drop any questions below as well, if you have them!
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! It brings me so much joy to see these recipes come to life in your homes – looking through your photos is truly my favorite thing. It genuinely means the world to me!
Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread
Equipment
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Mixing Bowls
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Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
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Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid 6 in 1
Ingredients
- 1 half loaf of bread cut in half horizontally or into slices to fit air fryer
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter softened, high-quality recommended
- 6 roasted garlic cloves mashed or finely minced
- 1 Tbsp freshly chopped oregano + more for garnish (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 Tbsp freshly chopped basil + more for garnish (or 1 tsp dried)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for a hint of heat
- 1/8 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/8 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish: more freshly chopped herbs
Instructions
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If your air fryer model requires preheating, preheat it to 350˚F (175˚C).
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Slice your bread into pieces that are sized to fit comfortably in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
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In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, mashed roasted garlic, fresh herbs (oregano and basil), and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until well combined and fragrant.
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Generously slather the butter mixture onto the cut sides of each piece of bread, ensuring an even coating.
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Place the buttered bread pieces in the preheated air fryer in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; you may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 6 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy to your liking.
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If you are using cheese, combine the mozzarella and Parmesan in a small bowl. In the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, open the air fryer, sprinkle the cheese evenly over the bread, and continue cooking until melted and bubbly.
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Carefully remove the garlic bread from the air fryer, slice into desired portions (if needed), and serve immediately. Garnish with additional freshly chopped herbs if desired for extra freshness.
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