Air Fryer Pesto Garlic Bread

Air fryer pesto garlic bread brings together the delicious flavors of pesto with delicious garlic bread. This dish is quick and easy to make in the air fryer with no preheating!

I don't think I have ever met a person that doesn't like garlic bread. Everyone seems to love that delicious buttery garlicy flavor that pairs with the crispy crunch of the bread.

It's such a favorite, and so easy to make. But lately I've been doing two things that have really elevated the garlic bread.

First, I add pesto to the butter mixture. It adds that delicious fresh basil flavor from the pesto and turns the bread into something special.

Second, I use my air fryer to get the garlic bread all crispy! So quick and easy to do, and zero preheating required.

Ingredients

• French loaf or baguette
• Pesto
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

What type of bread to use

For the air fryer garlic bread, you can either use a baguette or a soft French loaf.

A baguette tends to be a bit harder and thinner (and longer). If using a baguette, you will likely use the whole loaf.

A French loaf tends to be softer, and more like the type of loaf you would see at restaurants (though this type of loaf is easy to find at most grocery stores). The French loaf is thicker and fluffier than a baguette.

If using a French loaf (pictured below), you will only use half of the loaf for this recipe.

Customization ideas

The pesto garlic bread is so delicious, but you can jazz it up however you like?

Want more garlic flavor? Add a little more garlic powder, some garlic salt, or extra garlic cloves.

Want a bit of spice? Add some red pepper flakes.

Want more pesto flavor? Add more pesto to your butter spread.

Want a cheesy version instead? Make this air fryer cheesy garlic bread.

What to serve with the pesto garlic bread

I love serving the pesto garlic bread with some delicious pasta or vegetables.

The bread pairs deliciously with Air Fryer Mediterranean Vegetables, Air Fryer Garlic Herb Zucchini, Spicy Calabrian Shrimp, Air Fryer Mediterranean Salmon, or Easy Cheesy Pasta Bake.

It would also be delicious with Creamy Harissa Pasta or Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta.

Recipe notes

• You may want to pull the butter out an hour before using or place in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to slightly soften up.
• As noted above, you can use a baguette or soft French loaf to make the garlic bread. If using a French loaf, you'll use half the bread. If using a baguette, you will use the entire baguette.
• Cut the bread as needed to fit your air fryer basket.
• All air fryers cook differently. Watch carefully to make sure bread is done to your desired amount.

How to make air fryer pesto garlic bread

Add softened butter, minced garlic, pesto, garlic powder, and onion powder to a small bowl.

Mash together with a fork or spatula until all ingredients are combined together. Don't worry if there are still chunks of butter in there. The mixture will not be entirely smooth.

Cut the French loaf in half and set half the loaf aside (for garlic bread tomorrow!)

Note, if using a baguette, you will use the whole baguette.

Then, cut the loaf in half so you can spread the pesto garlic mixture on each piece.

Place in the air fryer basket. (Slice into smaller pieces if needed, if the bread will not fit in your air fryer basket).

Air fry at 380 degrees F for 5-6 minutes.

Remove, slice into smaller slices and enjoy!

Other pesto recipes

• Air Fryer Pesto Salmon
• Air Fryer Pesto Shrimp
• Pesto and Asparagus Tart
• Pesto Cavatappi
• Air Fryer Pesto Potatoes

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