Elevate your snack or appetizer game with this Air Fryer Pull-Apart Cheese Garlic Bread! Loaded with gooey mozzarella and infused with a buttery, garlicky flavor, this recipe is perfect for sharing. The air fryer gives it a golden crust and melty center in no time. It’s quick, easy, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee (healthier alternative to butter)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bread and Cheese
- 1 loaf sourdough bread
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (cubed cheese works too, but shredded is easier to distribute)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (or ghee) and mix it with the olive oil.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Using a serrated knife, make diagonal cuts on the loaf of sourdough bread, creating a crisscross pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want the loaf to remain intact.
- Gently open up the cuts in the bread and drizzle the prepared garlic butter into the cracks, ensuring even distribution.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese into the cuts, ensuring each crevice is filled with cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Carefully place the prepared bread into the air fryer basket. If your loaf is too large, cut it in half to fit.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges of the bread are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the bread from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute or two. Serve warm and pull apart the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Cooking Notes
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or chives along with the parsley for extra herbaceousness.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t overfill with cheese and butter to prevent it from spilling out into the air fryer.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Option
Use low-carb bread or a keto-friendly loaf to make this recipe suitable for low-carb diets.
Gluten-Free Version
Opt for a gluten-free sourdough loaf to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use French bread, ciabatta, or even dinner rolls for this recipe. Adjust the air frying time if needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the bread and refrigerate it (wrapped in foil) for up to 1 day. Air fry just before serving for best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover bread tightly in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.
This Air Fryer Pull-Apart Cheese Garlic Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! With its crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and irresistible garlic butter, it’s the perfect side dish or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this quick and easy recipe will have everyone coming back for more. Try it today and watch it disappear from the table in no time!
