Air fryer cheesy garlic bread casserole is a rich, pull-apart style dish made from chunks of bread soaked in garlic butter and baked with plenty of melted cheese. It’s crispy on top, soft and buttery inside, and packed with bold garlic flavor in every bite.
This recipe takes classic garlic bread to another level by turning it into a baked casserole. Instead of spreading butter on slices, the bread pieces absorb a garlic butter mixture, making the entire dish flavorful and moist. As it cooks, the edges crisp up while the center stays soft and cheesy.
The cheese is what makes this dish truly indulgent. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar melts into a gooey, stretchy layer that binds everything together. When air-fried, the top becomes golden and slightly crispy, adding texture and depth.
The air fryer makes this dish quick and efficient. It creates even heat circulation, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly and the bread gets a lightly toasted finish without drying out. It’s perfect for small batches and fast cooking.
This casserole works well as a side dish, party snack, or even a comfort meal on its own. Serve it with pasta, soup, or dips like marinara for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional, for softer texture)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
- Lightly grease an air fryer-safe baking dish.
- Transfer bread mixture into the dish and press lightly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Optional: drizzle a little milk or cream over the bread for extra softness.
- Preheat air fryer to 180°C.
- Air fry for 8–12 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving for best texture.
Nutritional Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Calcium: 180 mg
