If you’re looking for the ultimate appetizer or side dish, this Air Fryer Pull Apart Cheese Garlic Bread is your go-to recipe! Loaded with gooey mozzarella, garlic butter, and Italian seasoning, this bread is perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee
(ghee is a healthier alternative if desired)
2 tablespoons olive oil
(adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust)
1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
(for a fresh, herbaceous flavor)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
(a blend of oregano, thyme, and basil for depth)
4 garlic cloves, minced
(for that bold, aromatic garlic punch)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 loaf sourdough bread
(a sturdy base that crisps beautifully in the air fryer)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
(cubed cheese works too, but shredded melts evenly and fills the bread beautifully)
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave for 15-30 seconds.
Stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Cut the Bread:
Lay the sourdough loaf flat on a cutting board. Using a serrated bread knife, make diagonal cuts into the loaf about 2/3 of the way through, without cutting all the way to the bottom.
Repeat this process in the opposite direction to create a crosshatch pattern. Be sure to leave about 1 inch uncut near the edges.
Add the Garlic Butter:
Using a small spoon or pastry brush, drizzle or spread the garlic butter mixture into the cuts of the bread. Be generous to ensure every crevice gets a burst of flavor.
Stuff with Cheese:
Carefully stuff the shredded mozzarella into the cuts of the bread, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Air Fry the Bread:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Place the prepared loaf in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your loaf and air fryer, you may need to cut the bread in half.
Air fry for 6-8 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and crisp.
Serve:
Remove the bread from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm and enjoy pulling apart each gooey, cheesy piece.
Pro Tips
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a flavor twist.
Garlic Butter Boost: For an extra garlic kick, roast the garlic cloves before mixing them into the butter.
Perfect Cuts: Use a long serrated knife for even cuts, and don’t rush—precision is key for easy stuffing.
Make Ahead: Assemble the bread (without air frying) a few hours ahead of time, cover it with foil, and air fry just before serving.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is perfect for a party, family dinner, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and garlicky. It’s incredibly easy to make in the air fryer, so you get delicious results with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: Based on 8 servings
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy garlic bread with soups like tomato bisque or creamy mushroom soup. It’s also fantastic alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti, Alfredo, or lasagna.
Get ready to savor every pull-apart bite! 🧄🧀