Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 French baguette or Italian bread loaf (approximately 250g)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">115g unsalted butter, softened</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 garlic cloves, minced (or 2 tbsp pre-minced garlic)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)</li> </ul>

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Pastry brush</li> </ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Prepare your garlic butter mixture by combining the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. The softened butter allows for easy spreading while ensuring the garlic and herbs distribute evenly. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Slice your baguette or Italian loaf horizontally if making boat-style garlic bread, or into 2cm thick slices for individual pieces. For boat-style, cut the loaf in half lengthwise, creating two long pieces with exposed soft centers. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Using a pastry brush or knife, generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Be sure to reach all the way to the edges for maximum flavor coverage. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the buttered surface now. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for 2 minutes. This short preheating time ensures your bread starts cooking immediately, creating that perfect contrast between crispy exterior and soft interior. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Place the bread in your air fryer basket with the buttered side facing up. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches. Avoid overcrowding as this prevents proper air circulation and results in uneven cooking. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Cook at 180°C for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently after 3 minutes as air fryers can vary in temperature. You're looking for a golden-brown surface with slightly caramelized edges. The butter should be completely melted and bubbling slightly. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Remove from the air fryer immediately when done to prevent over-browning. The residual heat from the bread will continue cooking it slightly after removal. If you're working in batches, the second batch may cook faster as the air fryer is already hot. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Allow the garlic bread to cool for 1-2 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the melted butter to be reabsorbed slightly into the bread, enhancing the flavor. If desired, garnish with additional fresh parsley for a bright flavor contrast and visual appeal. </li> </ol>