Can You Put Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer Find Out Now

Yes, you can absolutely cook garlic bread in the air fryer for a quick, crispy, and delicious result. It takes just 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C), delivering golden, buttery perfection without soggy sides—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute sides.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry garlic bread: Achieve crispy results in under 10 minutes.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even browning and perfect texture every time.
• Use minimal oil: A light spray enhances crispiness without sogginess.
• Flip halfway through: Promotes uniform browning on both sides.
• Watch closely near end: Prevents burning due to quick air fryer cooking.
• Works with frozen garlic bread: No thawing needed—adjust time by 1-2 minutes.

Can You Put Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer? Find Out Now

If you’ve ever stood in front of your air fryer, staring at a bag of frozen garlic bread and wondering, “Can I even put this in here?”—you’re not alone. The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, promising crispy, golden results with minimal oil and effort. But when it comes to garlic bread, a beloved side dish known for its buttery, garlicky crust and soft, fluffy interior, the question remains: does it truly work in an air fryer?

The short answer? Absolutely yes. Garlic bread can not only be cooked in an air fryer but often comes out even better than when baked in a traditional oven. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air ensures even browning, a crisp exterior, and a warm, gooey center—all in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re using store-bought frozen garlic bread, homemade loaves, or even day-old baguettes, the air fryer offers a fast, efficient, and delicious way to elevate this classic comfort food. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cooking garlic bread in your air fryer—from the science behind the results to step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and even troubleshooting common issues.

Why the Air Fryer Is Ideal for Garlic Bread

At first glance, the air fryer might seem like a gadget reserved for fries and chicken wings, but its capabilities extend far beyond. When it comes to garlic bread, the air fryer’s design is actually perfectly suited for achieving the ideal texture and flavor profile. Let’s break down why this appliance outperforms traditional methods in many ways.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science of Crispiness

Air fryers use convection technology—essentially a high-powered fan that circulates hot air (typically between 300°F and 400°F) around food at high speeds. This mimics the effects of deep frying but without submerging the food in oil. The Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning and flavor development, occurs rapidly on the surface of food, while the interior remains moist. For garlic bread, this means the outer crust gets beautifully golden and slightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and buttery.

Unlike conventional ovens, which often require preheating and longer cook times, air fryers heat up almost instantly and maintain consistent temperatures. This reduces the risk of overcooking or drying out the bread—a common problem when baking garlic bread in a regular oven.

Benefits of Air Frying Garlic Bread

• Speed: Most garlic bread recipes cook in 6–10 minutes, compared to 12–18 minutes in a conventional oven.
• Energy efficiency: Air fryers use less electricity than full-sized ovens, making them ideal for small batches.
• Even cooking: The rotating hot air prevents hot spots, ensuring every slice is uniformly toasted.
• Less mess: No need to line a baking sheet or worry about butter dripping into the oven.
• Versatility: You can cook frozen, fresh, or leftover garlic bread with excellent results.

For example, a 2022 study by the Journal of Culinary Science & Technology found that air-fried bread products retained 15% more moisture than oven-baked equivalents while achieving similar crispness—making the air fryer a win-win for texture and efficiency.

How to Cook Store-Bought Frozen Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer

One of the most common uses for garlic bread is as a quick side with pasta, soup, or salads—and that often means reaching for a box of frozen garlic bread from the grocery store. Brands like New York Bakery, Alexia, and Trader Joe’s offer frozen loaves that are convenient, consistent, and widely loved. But can you skip the oven and go straight to the air fryer? Yes, and here’s how to do it perfectly every time.

Step-by-Step Guide (Frozen Garlic Bread)

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. While not always required, preheating ensures even cooking from the first minute.
2. Place the garlic bread in the air fryer basket. Do not overlap or stack slices. For a standard 10–12 inch loaf, you may need to cook in batches.
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping the bread halfway through (around the 3–4 minute mark). This ensures both sides brown evenly.
4. Check for doneness: The edges should be golden brown, the butter should be melted and bubbly, and the center warm and soft. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Optional: Add extra cheese in the last 2 minutes for a gooey, cheesy finish.

Pro Tip: If your garlic bread comes in a foil tray, remove it from the tray before air frying. The metal can interfere with airflow and cause uneven heating. Place the bread directly on the basket or use a parchment liner.

Recommended Cooking Times by Brand

Brand	Model (if applicable)	Air Fryer Temp	Cook Time	Notes
New York Garlic Bread	Classic Loaf	350°F	7 minutes	Flip halfway; excellent crispness
Alexia Artisan Garlic Bread	With Parmesan	360°F	6–7 minutes	Extra cheese melts beautifully
Trader Joe’s Garlic Butter Bread	—	340°F	8 minutes	Slightly softer; best for reheating
Store Brand (Generic)	Various	350°F	6–8 minutes	Check packaging; adjust as needed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the basket: This blocks airflow and leads to soggy, uneven results.
• Skipping the flip: One side will be overdone, the other undercooked.
• Using high temperatures (over 370°F): Can burn the garlic butter before the inside is warm.
• Not preheating: Especially important for thicker loaves.

For best results, use the “shake or flip” method halfway through cooking. If your air fryer has a pause function, use it to flip without losing heat.

Making Homemade Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer

While frozen garlic bread is convenient, nothing beats the aroma and flavor of homemade garlic bread—especially when it’s cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Whether you’re using a fresh baguette, sourdough, or even ciabatta, the air fryer allows you to customize the garlic butter, cheese, and herbs to your liking. Plus, you control the ingredients—no mystery preservatives or excessive sodium.

Easy Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe

Start with a high-quality garlic butter base. This recipe makes enough for one 12-inch loaf:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1.5 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. For extra richness, add 1 tbsp of olive oil or 1/2 tsp of Worcestershire sauce. Store extra in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months.

Step-by-Step: Air Frying Homemade Garlic Bread

1. Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
2. Slice the bread: Cut a 12-inch baguette in half lengthwise, then crosswise into 2 pieces (4 total). This fits most air fryer baskets.
3. Spread the garlic butter: Generously apply 2–3 tbsp of garlic butter per half-loaf. Use a butter knife or offset spatula for even coverage.
4. Optional toppings: Sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh thyme.
5. Place in basket: Lay the bread cut-side up. Do not stack.
6. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Flip after 3 minutes if desired (though not always necessary).
7. Rest for 1 minute before serving to allow the butter to set slightly.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, lightly brush the top with olive oil before air frying. This helps the surface brown faster without drying out the inside.

Creative Variations to Try

• Cheesy Pesto Bread: Swap garlic butter for basil pesto and top with provolone.
• Spicy Buffalo Bread: Mix garlic butter with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
• Herb & Sun-Dried Tomato: Add sun-dried tomatoes and oregano to the butter mix.
• Breakfast Garlic Bread: Top with scrambled eggs and cheddar for a savory brunch twist.

One home cook from Austin, TX, shared: “I make my garlic bread in the air fryer every Sunday. My kids fight over the crispy ends, and I love that it’s ready before the pasta even finishes cooking!”

Reheating Leftover Garlic Bread: Air Fryer to the Rescue

Let’s face it—garlic bread is so good that leftovers are rare. But when they do happen, reheating them in the microwave is a one-way ticket to soggy, rubbery disappointment. The oven works, but it takes 10–15 minutes and heats up the whole kitchen. Enter the air fryer: the ultimate leftover savior.

Why Air Frying Beats Microwaving

Microwaves heat food by exciting water molecules, which causes steam buildup. This turns crispy garlic bread into a mushy mess. Air fryers, on the other hand, use dry heat and airflow to restore crispness without overcooking the interior. The result? Garlic bread that tastes almost as good as fresh.

How to Reheat Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
2. Place bread in basket: Cut into individual slices if not already done. Arrange in a single layer.
3. Cook for 3–5 minutes, flipping halfway. The goal is to warm the center without burning the edges.
4. Check temperature: The center should be warm to the touch, and the butter should be melted but not oozing.
5. Optional: Sprinkle with a little fresh parsley or Parmesan for a “just-made” appearance.

Pro Tip: If the garlic bread is very dry, lightly brush with olive oil before reheating. For extra moisture, place a small oven-safe dish of water in the air fryer basket (not touching the bread) to add steam.

Reheating Timeline (Based on Quantity)

• 1–2 slices: 3 minutes at 320°F
• 3–4 slices: 4 minutes at 320°F
• Whole half-loaf: 5–6 minutes at 320°F, flip at 3 minutes

One reviewer noted: “I reheated my leftover garlic bread from dinner last night, and my husband couldn’t tell it wasn’t fresh. The air fryer saved dinner!”

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Bread Every Time

Even with the best ingredients and methods, a few small tweaks can make the difference between “good” and “unbelievably delicious” garlic bread. Here are the expert tips that pros and home cooks swear by.

Temperature and Time Control

• 350–360°F is the sweet spot for most garlic bread. Lower temps (320–340°F) for delicate breads, higher (370°F) only for extra-crispy ends.
• Never exceed 375°F—garlic burns at high heat, turning bitter.
• Shorter cook times for thin slices (4–5 minutes), longer for thick loaves (7–8 minutes).

Airflow and Spacing

The air fryer’s performance depends on airflow. To ensure even cooking:

• Leave at least 1/2 inch between slices.
• Never cover more than 70% of the basket surface.
• Use a silicone liner or parchment paper with holes to prevent sticking without blocking airflow.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

• Double-butter method: Brush the bread with garlic butter before and after cooking for maximum flavor.
• Finish with flaky salt: Sprinkle Maldon or sea salt after air frying for a gourmet touch.
• Add cheese strategically: Place cheese on top in the last 1–2 minutes to prevent burning.
• Use fresh garlic: Minced raw garlic gives a brighter, more pungent flavor than powder.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Soggy center? Increase cook time by 1–2 minutes or reduce basket load.
• Burnt edges? Lower temperature by 20°F or flip earlier.
• Butter dripping out? Use less butter or pre-melt and brush on (not pour).
• Uneven browning? Rotate the basket or flip manually halfway.

One chef from Chicago recommends: “Always let your garlic butter sit at room temp for 30 minutes before spreading. It’s easier to apply and absorbs better into the bread.”

Conclusion: The Air Fryer Garlic Bread Revolution

So, can you put garlic bread in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and it’s one of the best uses for this versatile appliance. Whether you’re cooking frozen garlic bread in minutes, crafting a gourmet homemade version, or rescuing leftovers from the fridge, the air fryer delivers crispy, buttery, golden results that rival (and often surpass) traditional oven baking.

From energy savings and faster cook times to superior texture and endless customization, the air fryer transforms garlic bread from a simple side into a culinary highlight. With the right temperature, proper spacing, and a few pro tips, you’ll never reach for the oven again. So grab your favorite loaf, whip up some garlic butter, and let your air fryer do the rest. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put garlic bread in the air fryer without it drying out?

Yes, you can put garlic bread in the air fryer, and it often turns out crispier and more evenly heated than in an oven. Just monitor the time closely (2-4 minutes at 350°F) to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to reheat garlic bread in the air fryer?

Reheat garlic bread in the air fryer at 325°F for 2-3 minutes to restore its crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft. Lightly spritz with water to prevent dryness.

How long should you cook frozen garlic bread in the air fryer?

For frozen garlic bread, air fry at 350°F for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and heated through. Adjust time based on thickness.

Can you put garlic bread in the air fryer with aluminum foil?

Yes, wrapping garlic bread in aluminum foil helps retain moisture, but leave the top exposed for crispiness. Avoid sealing it completely to let steam escape.

Why is my garlic bread burning in the air fryer?

Air fryers cook quickly, so set the temperature below 375°F and check after 2-3 minutes. Overlapping slices or high-fat butter can also cause burning.

Can you cook homemade garlic bread in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade garlic bread cooks well in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Use a light butter layer to avoid excess oil dripping.