Garlic bread is one of the tastiest side dishes you could have with your main course. Whether you are preparing chicken, pasta or a hearty stew, garlic bread is always a great addition to the meal. There are various ways to cook garlic bread, but in this article, we will explore how to make store bought garlic bread in an air fryer.
Why use an air fryer to cook garlic bread?
Air fryers are a fantastic tool for cooking garlic bread as they do not require oil and, as a result, produce a healthier version of the classic side dish. Moreover, air fryers offer a quick and easy way to cook your garlic bread to perfection. They produce a crispy and crunchy texture on the outside with a soft and fluffy inside, which can be challenging to achieve with other methods of cooking.
In addition to being a healthier option, air fryers are also more environmentally friendly than traditional ovens. They use less energy and emit fewer greenhouse gases, making them a great choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Another benefit of using an air fryer to cook garlic bread is that it allows for easy customization. You can experiment with different types of bread, seasonings, and toppings to create a unique and delicious dish that suits your taste preferences. Plus, air fryers are easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient addition to any kitchen.
What ingredients are needed for cooking store bought garlic bread in air fryer?
When cooking store bought garlic bread in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
- Store bought garlic bread
- Cooking spray
That's it! You don't need any other ingredients as the garlic butter flavor in the bread is enough to add flavor to your cooked dish.
However, if you want to add some extra flavor to your garlic bread, you can sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese or chopped parsley on top of the bread before cooking it in the air fryer. This will give your garlic bread a delicious and savory taste.
It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the brand and type of air fryer you are using. It is recommended to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or to experiment with different cooking times and temperatures until you find the perfect setting for your garlic bread.
Step-by-step instructions on how to cook garlic bread in air fryer
Now, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions on how to cook store bought garlic bread in an air fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes.
- Take the store bought garlic bread out of the packaging and cut it into slices.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the slices of garlic bread in the air fryer basket without overlapping them.
- Cook the garlic bread for 5-7 minutes. Make sure to flip the garlic bread slices halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are evenly crunchy.
- Once done, use tongs to remove the garlic bread from the air fryer and place them on a serving dish.
- Enjoy your delicious air fryer garlic bread!
Did you know that you can also make your own garlic bread from scratch in an air fryer? Simply mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Spread the mixture onto slices of bread and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bread is golden brown and crispy. This homemade garlic bread is a perfect addition to any meal!
Tips for getting the perfect crispy texture in your garlic bread
If you want the perfect crispy texture for your garlic bread, make sure to follow these tips:
- Preheat your air fryer before adding the bread slices.
- Do not overlap the bread slices as this will prevent them from getting crispy.
- Flip the bread slices halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crunchiness on both sides.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket as this will prevent the hot air from circulating properly, and your garlic bread will not be crispy.
- Use cooking spray to prevent the garlic bread from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Another tip for getting the perfect crispy texture in your garlic bread is to use fresh bread. Stale bread will not crisp up as well as fresh bread, so make sure to use bread that is still soft and fresh.
Additionally, you can add some extra flavor to your garlic bread by brushing it with melted butter or olive oil before air frying. This will not only add flavor but also help the bread to crisp up even more.
How long should I cook store bought garlic bread in air fryer?
You should cook your store-bought garlic bread for 5-7 minutes at 375°F, depending on the thickness of your bread slices. Make sure to check the garlic bread while cooking to avoid burning it.
It is important to note that different air fryer models may have varying cooking times and temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific air fryer you are using.
If you prefer your garlic bread to be extra crispy, you can brush it with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter before placing it in the air fryer. This will give it a golden brown color and a delicious crunch.
Common mistakes to avoid when cooking garlic bread in air fryer
When cooking garlic bread in an air fryer, some common mistakes to avoid include:
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket
- Not preheating the air fryer
- Overcooking or undercooking the garlic bread
- Burning the garlic bread by not checking it while cooking
Another important thing to keep in mind when cooking garlic bread in an air fryer is to use the right type of bread. It is recommended to use a sturdy bread like a baguette or ciabatta, as they hold up better in the air fryer and don't become too soggy or burnt. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of seasonings and toppings to add more flavor to your garlic bread, such as parmesan cheese, herbs, or even a drizzle of olive oil.
How to add extra flavor to your garlic bread in the air fryer
If you want to add extra flavor to your garlic bread while cooking it in the air fryer, there are various options you could try:
- Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil on top of the garlic bread slices
- Add grated parmesan cheese or a mix of grated cheeses to the garlic bread before placing it in the air fryer basket
- Use infused garlic butter to add unique flavors to your garlic bread.
Another option to add extra flavor to your garlic bread in the air fryer is to mix garlic powder with melted butter and brush it onto the bread before cooking. This will give your garlic bread a stronger garlic flavor and a crispy texture. You could also experiment with adding different herbs and spices to the butter mixture to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Serving suggestions for your perfectly cooked garlic bread from the air fryer
Now that your garlic bread is crispy and delicious, you need a dish to pair it with. Here are some serving suggestions for your perfectly cooked garlic bread from the air fryer:
- Pair it with your favorite pasta dish such as lasagne or spaghetti and meatballs
- Serve it alongside roasted chicken and vegetables
- Make garlic bread pizza by adding your favorite pizza toppings on top of the bread slices, then return them to the air fryer for a few more minutes.
If you're looking for a lighter option, try serving your garlic bread with a fresh salad. The crunch of the bread pairs perfectly with the crisp greens and tangy dressing.
For a more indulgent option, serve your garlic bread with a warm bowl of soup. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up all the delicious flavors of the soup.
Comparing the taste and texture of air fried garlic bread vs oven-baked or microwave options
If you are wondering if air fried garlic bread tastes and feels different from oven-baked or microwave methods, here is a comparison:
- Oven-baked garlic bread is crispy on the outside but can be quite dry inside. Additionally, it takes longer to cook than air-fried garlic bread.
- Microwave garlic bread can be soggy and lacks the crispy texture provided by the air fryer.
- Air fried garlic bread has a perfect crispy texture on the outside while being soft and fluffy on the inside.
Overall, cooking garlic bread in an air fryer is a quick, easy and healthy way to create perfect garlic bread to pair with any main dish. Follow the tips and tricks outlined in this article to get the best taste and texture and enjoy your perfectly cooked garlic bread from the air fryer!
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