1. Prepare the Bread
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Place the loaf of bread on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, make diagonal cuts across the loaf, creating a crisscross pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom of the loaf, leaving the base intact.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Butter and Garlic:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In another bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried basil, and dried oregano. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Bread
- Add Garlic Butter:
- Using a brush or spoon, carefully spread the garlic butter mixture into the cuts of the bread, ensuring it gets into every crevice.
- Stuff with Cheese:
- Spoon the cheese mixture into the cuts of the bread. Press down gently to make sure the cheese gets into all the gaps.
4. Air Fry the Bread
- Arrange the Bread:
- Place the stuffed bread in the air fryer basket. If your bread is too large, you may need to cut it in half or cook it in batches.
- Cook:
- Air fry the bread at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the loaf and your air fryer model.
- Check for Doneness:
- If the bread is not yet crispy or the cheese hasn’t fully melted, continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments until done.
5. Serve
- Garnish:
- Remove the bread from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the crack bread warm, and enjoy it as a delicious appetizer or side dish. It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or simply as a standalone snack.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Bread: A round sourdough or Italian loaf works best for this recipe, but other types of bread can also be used if preferred.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Ensure the cheese mixture is evenly distributed but not overly packed to avoid excessive melting and potential mess.
- Air Fryer Size: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to adjust the size of the bread or cook in batches.
Air Fryer Crack Bread is a crowd-pleaser with its crispy, cheesy, and flavorful layers. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your bread game and is sure to become a favorite at any meal. Enjoy!