Air Fryer Pull-Apart Cheese Garlic Bread Recipe

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If you’re craving a cheesy, garlicky, and crispy bread that is easy to make without using the oven, then this Air Fryer Pull Apart Cheese Garlic Bread is the perfect solution. With gooey melted cheese, aromatic garlic butter, and a crispy texture, this recipe will have everyone reaching for more. Let’s dive into the full recipe with step-by-step instructions!

Ingredients:

1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread (preferably a thick loaf)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut the loaf of bread into slices (about 1-inch thick) without cutting all the way through, leaving the base of the loaf intact. This will allow the bread to “pull apart” when ready to serve.
- Alternative: You can slice the bread in a crisscross pattern (both horizontally and vertically) for a fun pull-apart effect.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Pro Tip: If you like extra garlic flavor, feel free to add more minced garlic.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheese Garlic Bread

Use a spoon or pastry brush to spread the garlic butter mixture between the slices of bread. Be sure to spread the butter deep into all the crevices for maximum flavor.
Once the butter is evenly distributed, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese between the slices, making sure it’s evenly spread.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and around the slices for added cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place the prepared bread loaf into the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook it in batches, but make sure the bread is standing upright and not overcrowded.
Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden, the cheese is melted, and the edges are crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the garlic bread from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute before serving.
Gently pull apart the slices and serve while warm and gooey.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

Tips & Variations:

Cheese Variety: Experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture if you like a little heat!
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days, but this bread is best eaten fresh. Reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring it back to life.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?

A: Absolutely! You can use any type of bread, but a thicker loaf like French or Italian bread works best to hold up to the garlic butter and cheese. A softer bread may not work as well for the pull-apart effect.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the bread and garlic butter mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the bread fresh when you’re ready to serve it. Pre-baked bread may lose some of its crispy texture.

Q: Can I add extra toppings?

A: Yes! Feel free to get creative. Add herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme, or even a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?

A: While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary. Just be mindful of the difference in taste and richness.

This Air Fryer Pull-Apart Cheese Garlic Bread is perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or even as a standalone snack. It’s cheesy, garlicky, and irresistibly crispy. Enjoy the delicious gooey goodness and let me know if you give this recipe a try!