Air Fryer Green Chile Cheese & Garlic Butter Pull-Apart Loaves

 Introduction:

These Air Fryer Green Chile Cheese with Garlic Butter Pull-Apart Loaves are everything you want in a warm, cheesy bread: soft in the center, golden and crispy on the outside, and bursting with gooey cheese, roasted green chiles, and rich garlic butter in every bite. Inspired by Southwest flavors, this easy-to-make appetizer or side dish is perfect for game day, potlucks, or pairing with chili, soup, or grilled meats.

Thanks to the air fryer, the bread bakes up quickly without needing a full oven—and with a perfectly crisped exterior and melty interior, it’s sure to become your new go-to for comfort food with a twist.

 Ingredients:

For the Loaf:

1 small round sourdough or crusty bread loaf (about 6–7 inches wide)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese

1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, drained

2 tbsp sliced green onions (optional)

For the Garlic Butter:

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp salt

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

 Instructions:

Prep the Bread:

Using a sharp bread knife, cut the loaf into 1-inch cubes without slicing all the way through—cut both horizontally and vertically to create a grid pattern.

Be careful not to slice through the bottom crust.

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic, garlic powder, salt, and parsley.

Stuff the Loaf:

Gently separate the bread cubes and spoon garlic butter into all the cuts.

Stuff shredded cheeses and green chiles evenly into the cracks.

Sprinkle green onions over the top if using.

Air Fry:

Preheat air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 3 minutes.

Place the stuffed loaf on a small sheet of parchment paper or foil for easier handling.

Carefully transfer to the air fryer basket.

Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and crisp.

 Rotate halfway through if needed for even cooking.

Serve:

Let cool slightly before serving.

Pull apart with your hands or use a bread knife to separate chunks.

 Tips & Tricks:

Use bakery-fresh or day-old bread—slightly stale loaves hold up better to cutting and stuffing.

Add protein: Crumbled cooked bacon, sausage, or pulled chicken make it heartier.

Spice it up: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.

Cheese choices: Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, Havarti, or smoked gouda for extra depth.

 Nutrition (Approx. per serving – based on 6 servings):

Calories: 320

Protein: 10g

Fat: 20g

Carbs: 25g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: ~480mg