Air Fryer Garlic Bread with Double Garlic Butter.

Equipment

• Air Fryer (any size, though larger baskets fit more bread)
• Mixing Bowl
• Pastry Brush
• Sharp Serrated Knife

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 1 loaf Italian bread, Ciabatta, or French Baguette (preferably day-old)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional, for the crust)

For the Double Garlic Butter

• ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, softened to room temperature
• 6 cloves Garlic, minced (divided)
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder (this is the “double” secret)
• ½ tsp Kosher Salt
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the “Double” Garlic Butter

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, half of the minced garlic (3 cloves), the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mash with a fork until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Note: The raw minced garlic provides a sharp, pungent kick, while the garlic powder provides a deep, roasted savory note. This combination is the “Double Garlic” effect.

Step 2: Slice and “Inject” the Bread

1. Slice the loaf of bread in half horizontally (lengthwise) to create two long halves. Alternatively, slice into 1-inch thick individual slices, but do not cut all the way through the bottom crust (a “hasselback” style).
2. Using a knife, gently pry open the sides of the bread or score the surface. Take about 2 tablespoons of the garlic butter mixture and spread it directly onto the cut sides of the bread. This is the first layer of flavor.

Step 3: The Second Layer

1. Brush the remaining garlic butter generously over the top of the bread. You want a thick, even coating. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining minced garlic (3 cloves) over the top. Finally, sprinkle the fresh parsley.

Step 4: Preheat and Arrange

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating is crucial for the bread to crisp up immediately rather than drying out while the machine comes to temperature.
2. Place the bread into the air fryer basket. If you are using a large loaf, you may need to cut it in half to fit. Ensure the bread is arranged in a single layer. Do not stack.

Step 5: Air Fry (Low and Slow for Crunch)

1. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes . Keep a close eye on it after the 3-minute mark. The bread is done when the edges are golden brown, the butter is bubbling, and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Tip: If you prefer a crispier top, increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the final 1 minute of cooking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Carefully remove the bread from the air fryer (the butter is hot!). Let it rest for 1 minute before slicing into serving pieces. Garnish with a final pinch of fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 310 · Protein: 6g · Fat: 18g · Carbohydrates: 28g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 10g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 2g · Sodium: 380mg