Can Garlic Bread Go in the Air Fryer Here Is the Answer

Yes, garlic bread can absolutely go in the air fryer—it cooks faster, gets perfectly crispy, and avoids the soggy mess of microwaving. Just preheat, use a light oil spray, and air fry in short bursts to achieve golden, buttery perfection without overcooking. Say goodbye to soggy leftovers and hello to quick, delicious results!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, garlic bread cooks perfectly in an air fryer with crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer for even, golden-brown garlic bread every time.
• Use 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to avoid burning or undercooking.
• Flip halfway through for uniform crispness and flavor distribution.
• Store leftovers properly and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
• Avoid overcrowding to ensure optimal air circulation and crisp edges.

Why You Should Try Cooking Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer

Let’s face it—garlic bread is one of those magical foods that makes any meal feel like a celebration. Whether it’s a side to a hearty pasta dish, a go-to snack during movie nights, or the hero of your holiday table, garlic bread brings comfort, flavor, and that irresistible aroma. But here’s a question I get asked all the time: can garlic bread go in the air fryer? If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, staring at your air fryer and wondering if it could handle your favorite cheesy, buttery side, you’re not alone.

I’ve been there. I remember the first time I pulled out a frozen garlic bread loaf and thought, “Wait… can I just pop this in the air fryer instead of heating up the oven?” The oven takes 20 minutes to preheat, and I was hungry *now*. So, I took the leap. Spoiler: it worked better than I expected. Not only did it save time, but the result was crispier on the outside, softer on the inside, and didn’t heat up my whole kitchen. That’s when I realized the air fryer isn’t just for chicken wings and french fries—it’s a garlic bread game-changer. In this post, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned through trial, error, and a whole lot of buttery crumbs. Whether you’re using store-bought, homemade, or frozen garlic bread, I’ll show you how to make it perfectly in the air fryer—no guesswork, no burnt edges, just golden, garlicky perfection.

How the Air Fryer Works Its Magic on Garlic Bread

The Science Behind Crispy, Even Heating

You might be wondering: how does the air fryer actually cook garlic bread? After all, it’s not frying—it’s more like a mini convection oven. The air fryer uses rapid, hot air circulation to cook food evenly and create that golden, crispy exterior we all love. Unlike a traditional oven, which heats slowly and can leave the outside dry or the inside undercooked, the air fryer’s compact space and powerful fan ensure consistent heat from all directions.

This is especially good news for garlic bread. The butter and garlic mixture in the bread can sometimes cause uneven browning in the oven—some parts burn while others stay soft. But in the air fryer, the hot air wraps around the entire loaf or slices, cooking it from all sides at once. The result? A perfectly golden crust with a tender, warm interior—every single time.

Why Air Frying Beats the Oven (and Sometimes the Toaster)

Let’s compare: in a regular oven, garlic bread typically takes 10–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), but that’s *after* a 10–15 minute preheat. That’s nearly 30 minutes of waiting. In the air fryer, you skip the preheat (or just do a 2-minute warm-up), and cooking time is usually 6–10 minutes. That’s a 20-minute time savings—huge when you’re starving after work.

And unlike a toaster oven, which can dry out the bread or leave cold spots, the air fryer maintains consistent heat. Plus, you can cook multiple slices at once without sacrificing quality. I’ve made a full loaf of homemade garlic bread in my 5.8-quart air fryer without any overlap or crowding. The key? Using the basket correctly and flipping halfway through. More on that later.

Energy Efficiency and Kitchen Comfort

Another underrated benefit? The air fryer doesn’t heat up your kitchen like a conventional oven. During summer months, this is a *huge* win. No more sweating while your oven bakes for half an hour. The air fryer uses less energy and cools down faster. I’ve even made garlic bread in the middle of a heatwave and barely noticed the temperature rise in my kitchen.

Plus, cleanup is easier. Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe. Just wipe or rinse, and you’re done. No greasy baking sheets to scrub.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer

Choosing Your Garlic Bread

Not all garlic bread is created equal. Here’s how to pick the right kind for your air fryer:

• Frozen garlic bread: The most common type. Look for brands like Alexia, New York Brand, or store-brand options. Make sure it’s not dripping with oil or overly thick—those can smoke or cook unevenly.
• Store-bought (fresh, refrigerated): Often sold in foil trays. These are great because they’re pre-seasoned and ready to go. Just remove the plastic wrap before air frying.
• Homemade garlic bread: If you’re making your own, use a sturdy bread like French, Italian, or sourdough. Avoid super soft sandwich bread—it can fall apart or burn quickly.
• Garlic breadsticks or rolls: Perfect for smaller air fryer baskets. Just adjust the time and flip more frequently.

I’ve tried all types, and my favorite for air frying? Homemade on a French baguette. You control the butter-to-garlic ratio, and the bread holds up beautifully.

Preparing the Basket

Before you add the bread, prep your air fryer basket:

1. Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil to prevent sticking (especially for homemade bread).
2. Line the basket with parchment paper if you’re worried about cheese or butter dripping. Just make sure the paper is air fryer-safe and doesn’t cover the heating element.
3. Arrange the garlic bread in a single layer. Overlapping causes uneven cooking. If your basket is small, cook in batches.

Pro tip: If using frozen garlic bread, don’t thaw it. Cooking from frozen actually helps the inside stay moist while the outside crisps.

Cooking Times and Temperatures

Here’s a simple guide based on what I’ve tested:

• Frozen garlic bread (full loaf or slices): 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flip halfway.
• Refrigerated or fresh garlic bread: 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes, no flip needed.
• Homemade garlic bread (pre-buttered): 360°F (182°C) for 5–7 minutes, flip halfway.
• Garlic breadsticks: 370°F (188°C) for 4–5 minutes, flip once.

Always check at the 5-minute mark. Air fryers vary in power (some are 1200W, others 1500W+), so timing is a suggestion, not a rule. You want golden brown edges and a warm, melty center—not blackened or soggy.

Flipping and Checking for Doneness

Flipping is crucial. After the first 3–4 minutes, open the basket, carefully flip each piece, and continue cooking. This ensures both sides get crispy. Use tongs or a spatula—don’t burn your fingers!

How do you know it’s done? Look for:

• Golden brown crust (not pale or dark brown).
• Butter is bubbling slightly around the edges.
• The center feels warm and soft when pressed (but not cold or hard).
• Cheese (if added) is melted and slightly puffed.

If it’s browning too fast, lower the temperature by 25°F and extend time by 1–2 minutes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake I see. People try to fit 4–5 slices when only 2–3 fit comfortably. Crowding blocks airflow, leading to soggy, unevenly cooked bread. I learned this the hard way when I tried to cook a full loaf in one go. Half was burnt, half was cold. Not ideal.

Solution: Cook in batches. It takes an extra 5 minutes, but it’s worth it. Or, slice the bread thinner to fit more in a single layer.

Skipping the Flip

Air fryers circulate heat from the top, so the bottom can stay pale if not flipped. I once forgot to flip my homemade garlic bread—the top was perfect, the bottom was like a soft dinner roll. Not bad, but not the crispy texture I wanted.

Tip: Set a timer for halfway through. Flip quickly, then continue cooking.

Using Too Much Butter or Oil

Garlic bread is already buttery. Adding extra oil to the basket can cause smoking or greasy bread. I tried spraying my basket with olive oil once, and the smoke alarm went off. Not my finest moment.

Stick to a light spray or brush if needed. Homemade bread might need a little more, but store-bought usually has enough fat.

Not Adjusting for Air Fryer Size and Power

Not all air fryers are the same. A 4-quart model might cook faster than a 6-quart one. High-wattage models (1500W+) can brown food faster, while lower-wattage ones need more time.

My advice: Start with the lower end of the time range, then add 1–2 minutes if needed. Watch the bread closely after 5 minutes.

Forgetting to Let It Rest

Yes, even garlic bread needs a moment. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes after cooking. This lets the butter settle and prevents burns when you bite in. I learned this after scalding my tongue on a molten garlic clove. Ouch.

Creative Twists: Beyond Basic Garlic Bread

Add Cheese for a Gooey Upgrade

Want to take your air fryer garlic bread to the next level? Add cheese. I love sprinkling shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. The cheese melts into golden, bubbly goodness without making the bread soggy.

Try it with:

• Mozzarella + fresh basil: Classic Italian vibe.
• Sharp cheddar + jalapeño: Spicy and rich.
• Goat cheese + honey: Sweet and tangy—perfect for brunch.

Just don’t overload the cheese. Too much can drip into the basket and burn.

Herb and Spice Variations

Garlic is great, but don’t stop there. I’ve experimented with:

• Rosemary + sea salt: Earthy and aromatic.
• Red pepper flakes + parsley: For a little heat.
• Everything bagel seasoning: Salty, crunchy, and addictive.
• Lemon zest + thyme: Bright and fresh.

Add herbs and spices *after* cooking to preserve their flavor. Or mix them into softened butter before spreading on homemade bread.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Yes, you can make garlic bread in the air fryer if you’re gluten-free or vegan! Use:

• Gluten-free baguettes: Look for brands like Schar or Canyon Bakehouse. They hold up well in the air fryer.
• Vegan butter: I like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance. Spread it just like regular butter.
• Nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor without dairy.

I made a vegan garlic bread for a friend last month using a gluten-free loaf, vegan butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. She couldn’t believe it wasn’t “real” garlic bread. Success!

Data Table: Air Fryer Garlic Bread Cooking Guide

Type of Garlic Bread	Temperature (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Flip Required?	Notes
Frozen (full loaf)	375	7–9	Yes	Cook from frozen; check at 7 min
Frozen (slices)	375	6–8	Yes	Arrange in single layer
Refrigerated (fresh)	350	4–6	No	Remove plastic wrap
Homemade (pre-buttered)	360	5–7	Yes	Use sturdy bread
Garlic breadsticks	370	4–5	Yes	Watch closely; can burn fast
With added cheese	375	6–8 (add cheese at 6 min)	Yes	Sprinkle cheese in last 2 min

This table is based on my testing with a 5.8-quart air fryer (1500W). Adjust time by ±1–2 minutes for smaller or larger models.

Final Thoughts: Yes, Garlic Bread Belongs in the Air Fryer

So, can garlic bread go in the air fryer? Absolutely—and it should. After dozens of batches (and a few smoke alarms), I can confidently say the air fryer is one of the best ways to cook garlic bread. It’s faster, more energy-efficient, and delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, cooking from frozen, or making your own from scratch, the air fryer handles it all with ease.

The key is patience and attention. Don’t rush the flip, don’t overcrowd, and always check for that perfect golden crust. Once you master the basics, the possibilities are endless—cheesy, spicy, herby, vegan, gluten-free. I’ve even used leftover garlic bread to make croutons or a savory bread pudding (just chop it up and toss with egg and broth).

And here’s the best part: it’s foolproof. Even if you overcook it slightly, it’s still delicious. That’s the magic of garlic bread—it’s hard to mess up. But with the air fryer, you’re not just avoiding disaster. You’re creating something better: crispy, buttery, garlicky perfection in under 10 minutes.

So next time you’re craving that warm, aromatic side, skip the oven. Grab your air fryer, pop in that garlic bread, and let the magic happen. Your taste buds—and your kitchen—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can garlic bread go in the air fryer without burning?

Yes, garlic bread can go in the air fryer safely if you monitor the time and temperature. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 3–5 minutes to avoid burning the buttery edges.

How do you cook frozen garlic bread in the air fryer?

To cook frozen garlic bread in the air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures even heating without thawing first.

Is the air fryer better than the oven for garlic bread?

An air fryer is faster and more energy-efficient for garlic bread, delivering a crisp exterior and soft interior in half the time. However, ovens are better for larger batches.

What temperature should garlic bread be cooked at in an air fryer?

Cook garlic bread in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes (fresh) or 6–8 minutes (frozen). Adjust time based on your air fryer model and bread thickness.

Can you reheat leftover garlic bread in the air fryer?

Reheat leftover garlic bread in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out the bread.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for garlic bread?

Preheating the air fryer for 2–3 minutes ensures even cooking and crispiness for your garlic bread. While not mandatory, it improves texture and reduces cook time.