Irresistible Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists: Your Ultimate Guide to a Quick & Flavorful Snack
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with these incredibly easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists! Starting with a ready-to-use puff pastry sheet, these golden-brown delights are generously slathered with a rich, cheesy garlic butter mixture, sprinkled with fresh parsley, and cooked to perfection in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a delicious side dish, or a satisfying snack, these savory twists are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with your favorite dipping sauce!
Why This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
This recipe is a true game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and effortlessly elegant snack or side. What makes these garlic parmesan twists so fantastic? It’s their incredible simplicity and the speed at which they come together. We bypass the lengthy process of making dough from scratch by utilizing convenient store-bought puff pastry sheets. This flaky, buttery pastry forms the perfect base for our intensely flavorful cheesy garlic butter, creating a light, airy, and utterly satisfying bite every time.
The air fryer takes this recipe to another level, transforming humble ingredients into perfectly crisp, golden twists in a fraction of the time it would take in a traditional oven. The circulating hot air ensures an even cook and an unbeatable texture – tender on the inside, beautifully crunchy on the outside. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, these parmesan twists are ideal for last-minute entertaining, busy weeknights, or when you simply crave something warm and savory without the fuss. The hint of chili flakes adds a subtle warmth that elevates the classic garlic and parmesan combination, making them truly irresistible for any occasion.
Key Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Twists
Crafting these delectable garlic parmesan twists requires just a few basic ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability of a few quality components to create an extraordinary flavor. For the precise measurements, detailed quantities, and comprehensive instructions, be sure to consult the printable recipe card available at the very end of this article.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding your ingredients and knowing how to make smart substitutions can elevate your cooking experience and ensure success every time. Here’s a closer look at the key components for your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists:
DOUGH – The star of convenience in this recipe is a **puff pastry sheet**, readily available in the frozen section of most grocery stores. Remember to allow it sufficient time to thaw in the refrigerator before you begin. Thawing it slowly helps maintain its delicate layers. For those who enjoy a more hands-on approach or have specific dietary needs, you absolutely can use a homemade dough, perhaps a rich brioche or a classic bread dough similar to what we use in our garlic parmesan rolls recipe. If puff pastry isn’t on hand or you’re looking for an even quicker hack, refrigerated crescent roll dough or even biscuit dough could serve as a good alternative. While the texture won’t be as flaky as traditional puff pastry, they will still yield delicious, cheesy twists with a slightly different bite.
BUTTER AND HERBS – The heart of the flavor in these twists comes from the savory butter sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of melted unsalted butter, freshly grated parmesan cheese, finely minced garlic, and vibrant chopped parsley, all seasoned perfectly with salt, black pepper, and a touch of chili flakes. The quality of your butter matters here; a good unsalted butter will let the other flavors shine. For the parmesan, we highly recommend using freshly grated cheese for superior flavor and meltability compared to pre-grated varieties. Fresh garlic is also paramount; its pungent aroma transforms beautifully when cooked. While parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color, feel free to experiment with your favorite fresh herbs like chopped chives, oregano, or even a hint of rosemary for a different aromatic profile. If you’re not a fan of heat, or are serving to children, the chili flakes can be easily omitted without compromising the core flavor. However, for those who enjoy a subtle kick, they add a delightful depth.
Crafting Your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe successfully. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions at the bottom of the page.
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper. This prepares a non-stick surface for handling the pastry before it goes into the air fryer.
- In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of the melted butter, grated parmesan, minced garlic, chili flakes (if using), and chopped parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set this flavorful mixture aside for later.
- Carefully unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the sheet in half lengthwise, creating two equal rectangles.
- Evenly spread the cheesy garlic butter mixture onto one half of the pastry sheet. Ensure the butter covers the surface almost to the edges. Then, gently place the other half of the pastry sheet directly on top, aligning the edges as closely as possible.
- Using a rolling pin, gently roll out the layered pastry sheet to a thickness of approximately 1/8 of an inch. This crucial step not only helps to seal the two pastry halves together but also presses the flavorful cheesy garlic butter into the pastry, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
- Using your sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Aim for even strips to ensure consistent cooking.
- Carefully pick up each strip and gently twist it several times from both ends to create appealing spirals. Place these twisted strips onto your parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Once all strips are twisted, place the baking sheet with the twists into the fridge for 30 minutes. This chilling period is crucial as it helps the butter in the puff pastry firm up, ensuring the twists maintain their shape and puff up beautifully into flaky layers during cooking.
- While the twists are chilling, lightly spray the Air Fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the chilled pastry twists from the fridge. Before cooking, lightly brush each twist with the reserved 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This extra butter will contribute to a rich golden-brown color and enhanced flavor.
- Carefully transfer the brushed pastry twists into the preheated air fryer basket. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding; this is key for even cooking and crispiness. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are beautifully puffed up, golden brown, and delightfully crispy. Depending on the size of your Air Fryer, you may need to cook these in batches to achieve the best results.
- Once cooked, remove the hot twists from the air fryer. For an extra touch of indulgence and freshness, you can brush them with a little more melted butter, sprinkle with additional grated parmesan, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Twists
Leftover garlic parmesan twists can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain their delicious flavor and texture, ensure they are completely cooled before storing. Proper storage prevents them from becoming soggy.
To bring them back to their crispy glory, simply pop them into a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes. This method works wonderfully to restore their flaky exterior without drying them out. Alternatively, a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes will also work.
Absolutely! You can prepare the twists up to the point of chilling them (Step 7). After twisting, place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, proceed with brushing and air frying as directed. This makes them a perfect make-ahead appetizer for entertaining!
Yes, you can! Preheat your conventional oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the prepared twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary.
Get creative! For a cheesy herb blend, add a touch of dried Italian seasoning to the butter mixture. For extra zing, include a pinch of lemon zest. You can even try a sweeter version by omitting the garlic and parmesan, spreading with cinnamon sugar butter, and serving with a cream cheese glaze. Or, experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a stringy pull!
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Twists
These cheesy, garlicky twists are incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal or gathering. Serve them hot and fresh from the air fryer to truly capture their crispy, flaky texture and robust flavor. Here are some ideas to make them shine:
As an Appetizer: These twists are a phenomenal starter for any party or casual get-together. Arrange them beautifully on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces. Think classic marinara, creamy ranch, a tangy tzatziki, a vibrant pesto, or even a simple bowl of warm garlic butter. They are perfect for game day, potlucks, or just a fun movie night snack.
As a Dinner Side: Pair these savory breadsticks with a variety of main courses. They complement Italian-inspired dishes perfectly, such as pasta with a rich tomato sauce, chicken alfredo, or baked ziti. They also make an excellent accompaniment to hearty soups, like our Italian sausage tomato orzo soup, or alongside a fresh, crisp salad to add a delightful crunch. For a more casual meal, serve them with homemade pizza or a juicy grilled steak.
Brunch or Breakfast Twist: While savory, these can even be a unique addition to a brunch spread, alongside eggs or a quiche, offering a gourmet alternative to traditional toast.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists are sure to disappear quickly!
More Fantastic Air Fryer Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and delicious results of air frying, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can whip up everything from savory appetizers to crispy main courses and even sweet treats. Here are some more of our favorite air fryer recipes that you’ll definitely want to add to your repertoire:
- Air Fryer Pizza – Quick, crispy, and customizable personal pizzas.
- Air Fryer Onion Rings – Get that satisfying crunch without the deep-fryer mess.
- Air Fryer Pretzel Bites – Soft, chewy, and perfectly salty for a snack.
- Air Fryer Fried Pickles – A tangy and crispy appetizer that’s always a hit.
- Air Fryer French Toast Bites – A sweet and easy breakfast or brunch option.
- Air Fryer Fried Chicken – Achieve incredibly crispy chicken with less oil.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 1 puff pastry sheet thawed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes optional
- salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter melted, for brushing on top of twists
- grated parmesan to taste
- fresh parsley chopped, to taste
Things You’ll Need
-
Air fryer
-
Baking sheets
Before You Begin
- To reheat, place twists back into a preheated air fryer at 375 for 2-3 minutes.
Instructions
-
Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
-
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of the melted butter, parmesan, chili flakes, garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
-
Unfold the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface and cut in half with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
-
Spread the cheesy garlic butter on to one half of the pastry. Cover with the other half pastry sheet.
-
Roll out the pastry sheet to about 1/8 of an inch thickness. This will press the cheesy garlic butter into the pastry.
-
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips.
-
Gently twist the strips to make the curls.
-
Place on the baking sheet and pop into the fridge for 30 minutes. This will make them puff up better when cooking.
-
Spray the Air Fryer basket with cooking spray and preheat Air Fryer to 375°F.
-
Brush pastry twists with reserved 2 tbsp of melted butter.
-
Carefully transfer pastry twists into the Air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, until puffed up and golden brown. Depending on the size of the Air Fryer, you may have to do this in batches.
-
When done you can brush with some more butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with sauce of choice.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.