Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Spread Garlic Butter: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread.
Step 3: Air Fry the Garlic Bread
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Cook Garlic Bread: Place the buttered bread slices in the air fryer basket, buttered side up. Air fry for 3-5 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy. Remove from the air fryer.
Step 4: Add Pizza Toppings
- Add Sauce: Spread a generous spoonful of pizza sauce over the crispy garlic bread.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add a little grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Add Toppings: Arrange your chosen toppings over the cheese.
Step 5: Air Fry the Pizza Toast
- Cook Pizza Toast: Carefully place the assembled garlic bread pizza toasts back into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 370°F (190°C) for another 4-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the pizza toasts from the air fryer. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and dried oregano, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the garlic bread pizza toasts hot, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping if you like.
Tips and Tricks
- Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Crispier Base: For an extra crispy base, you can lightly toast the bread slices in the air fryer before adding the garlic butter.
- Herb Butter: Experiment with adding different herbs like basil or thyme to the garlic butter for varied flavors.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Top with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives.
- Meaty: Add slices of pepperoni, cooked sausage, or bacon for a meat lover’s version.
- Margherita: Use fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves for a classic Margherita flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Snack: Enjoy as a satisfying snack any time of the day.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Bread Pizza Toast is a quick and easy way to enjoy the best of both garlic bread and pizza. This recipe provides a delicious, crispy base topped with your favorite pizza toppings, all made conveniently in an air fryer. Follow this detailed guide to create a batch of these tasty toasts, perfect for any meal or snack. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the delightful crunch with every bite!