5-Minute Air Fryer Cheesy Tortilla Garlic Bread: A Crispy, Low-Cal Twist on a Classic

 

If you're anything like me, garlic bread is one of those comfort foods that just hits different—warm, buttery, garlicky goodness that makes any meal feel like a celebration. But let's be real: the traditional loaf can be a calorie bomb and a bit of a hassle to whip up. That's where this TikTok gem comes in. I stumbled upon a video that promised a simpler, lighter version using just tortillas and an air fryer, and it delivered. It's crispy on the outside, melty in the middle, and ready in under 10 minutes (including prep). Whether you're craving a solo snack, a side for soup or salad, or something to share at a casual gathering, this air fryer cheesy tortilla garlic bread has you covered.

What I love most? It's customizable and forgiving. The original called for 8-inch tortillas, but I grabbed 6-inch ones for my single-serve experiment, and it turned out perfectly portable. Plus, with fewer ingredients and no rising dough, it's a total weeknight win. Let's dive into the details and get you air-frying.
Air Fryer Cheesy Tortilla Garlic Bread

 (Serves 1-2)

This is scaled for a quick personal batch, but double up for sharing. Total time: 10 minutes (plus butter softening).

2 flour tortillas (6- or 8-inch)

2 T. unsalted butter, softened

1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded melts best; pre-shredded if you must)

Garlic powder, to taste (about ½ t. total—adjust for your garlic obsession level)

Italian seasoning, to taste (about ½ t. total—a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme; store-bought or DIY)

Preheat air fryer to 375°F.

Lay out your two tortillas on a clean surface. Using a butter knife, spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly over the top of each one. Go all the way to the edges for maximum crispiness—no skimping here!

Pile half the shredded mozzarella (about ½ c.) generously onto one buttered tortilla. Sprinkle with half the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Repeat with the second tortilla.

Carefully place the second tortilla on top of the first, cheese sides facing up. Pop the stack in the basket and "bake" for 5 minutes. Peek at the 4-minute mark to avoid any edge-burning, but 5 minutes usually nails the golden, bubbly perfection.

Remove with a spatula and let it rest on a cutting board for 1-2 minutes. The cheese will set just enough for clean cuts. Grab a pizza cutter or sharp knife and slice into wedges.

 This air fryer cheesy tortilla garlic bread isn't just a recipe; it's a reminder that the best eats are the simplest ones.
Pin it, share it, eat it—let's keep the garlic love alive! 

Customization Ideas

 Mexican Fiesta Version: Swap mozzarella for shredded Mexican blend cheese and sub Italian seasoning for Mexican oregano (or a pinch of cumin). Air fry the same way, then dip in salsa or guacamole.

Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños before stacking for a loaded twist.

Herb It Up: Fresh minced garlic + chopped parsley on top post-air-fry for extra zing.

Gluten-Free? Use corn or gluten-free tortillas—they crisp up beautifully.

 I tested the Mexican version last night with a bowl of tortilla soup, and it was ‘chef's kiss’—cheesy, garlicky, and a little spicy. What twists will you try?

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving, Approx.)

Based on 6-inch tortillas, split into 4 wedges:

Calories: ~250

Carbs: 20g

Protein: 10g

Fat: 15g

(These are estimates—track with your app for precision. It's lighter than a full garlic bread slice but still indulgent.) 

This post contains affiliate links to air fryers and tools I swear by—thanks for supporting my kitchen adventures!