If you’re looking for a new savory snack that’s big on crunch and bursting with cheesy, garlicky flavor, Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists are about to become your latest obsession. Puff pastry gets brushed with garlicky butter, showered with Parmesan and herbs, then turned into irresistible golden twists in minutes. Whether you need an easy appetizer, a game night treat, or a way to turn simple ingredients into something magical, this recipe is bound to have you reaching for seconds—and thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists was handpicked for maximum flavor and simplicity. With pantry staples like garlic, Parmesan, and butter, you get an irresistible combination of flakiness and robust taste, and each one plays a key role in texture, aroma, or color.
- Puff pastry: The buttery, flaky foundation that bakes up perfectly golden in the air fryer.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and blended with garlic for a rich flavor base that seeps into every bite.
- Garlic: Finely minced and mingled with butter to infuse the twists with that classic aromatic punch.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated finely and used for its nutty, salty bite that browns beautifully atop the pastry.
- Italian seasoning: A flavorful herb blend that gives the twists depth and a hint of Mediterranean charm.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the cheese and herbs—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle, peppery warmth that cuts through the richness.
- Egg: Beaten for a simple egg wash that gives each twist a glossy, professional finish.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped and sprinkled after baking for a fresh, bright pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists
Step 1: Prep Your Puff Pastry
Start by letting your sheet of puff pastry thaw according to package directions—cold but pliable is key here. Lightly flour your work surface and gently roll the pastry to smooth out any lines or folds, giving your twists a uniform look and texture once air fried.
Step 2: Mix Up the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. The aroma alone will tell you you’re onto something good! Stir well so the flavors are evenly distributed, as this luscious butter will infuse every layer of your twists.
Step 3: Spread, Sprinkle, and Fold
Brush your garlic butter mixture all over the rolled-out puff pastry, making sure to get every edge for maximum flavor. Next, generously sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top—don’t worry if some lands off to the side. Fold the pastry lengthwise so all the deliciousness is tucked inside, then gently press to seal the edges.
Step 4: Cut and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded dough into strips about 1 inch wide. Take each strip, gently stretch and twist it several times—this is what creates that eye-catching, bakery-worthy shape and all those layers of flavor.
Step 5: Air Fry Your Twists
Arrange the twists in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space so they crisp evenly. Brush them with the beaten egg for that glorious sheen, then air fry at 375°F for 6 to 8 minutes. Watch through the window as they puff up and turn golden brown, perfuming your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Let your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists cool slightly—if you can wait!—and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve them up warm for ultimate snacking satisfaction.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists
Garnishes
A scatter of fresh, chopped parsley right at serving enhances not only the look but adds a fresh, herby note that lifts every bite. A final flourish of extra Parmesan never hurts, either—it ups the cheesy factor and gives a restaurant-style finish.
Side Dishes
These twists are perfect with a warm bowl of marinara or a creamy ranch dip for dunking. Pair them alongside soups, salads, or antipasto platters for a starter that looks and tastes effortlessly gourmet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, stack the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists in a breadstick bouquet, or lay them crisscrossed on a cheese board. For kids, serve in a mug lined with parchment so little hands can pluck them out hot and fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra twists (rare, but it happens!), allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, perfect for snacking whenever a craving hits.
Freezing
Freeze baked Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists on a baking sheet until firm, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To freeze unbaked twists, assemble, twist, and freeze them before the egg wash—then brush and bake directly from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat twists in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes, or until crisp and warmed through. Alternatively, use a hot oven for best results; microwaving will soften the pastry, but it still gets the job done in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry brings extra butteriness and flakiness. Just roll it out to about the same thickness as store-bought for even baking.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem—these twists work beautifully in a conventional oven as well. Bake at 400°F on a lined baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes or until golden and puffy.
Can I substitute another cheese?
Definitely! Freshly grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano add their own personalities, or try a sprinkle of mozzarella for a gooey variation. Just stick to sturdy cheeses that melt and brown nicely.
How do I keep the twists from sticking together in the air fryer?
Space them apart in a single layer and, if needed, cook in batches. Overcrowding can make them steam instead of crisp up, so a little patience gives the best texture.
Can I prep Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble and twist them a few hours ahead, then refrigerate covered until ready to air fry. They’ll bake up fresh and delicious right when you want them.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like pulling a tray of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists warm and golden from the air fryer and sharing them with friends and family. So grab your ingredients, get twisting, and enjoy every irresistible, cheesy bite—you’ll be amazed at how easy and impressive this little snack can be!
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 8 twists
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists are a delightful savory pastry that makes for a perfect appetizer or snack. With a golden brown, flaky exterior and a flavorful garlic Parmesan filling, these twists are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash and Garnish:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface, brush with garlic butter, and sprinkle Parmesan over it.
- Cut and Twist: Fold pastry, cut into strips, twist, and place in the air fryer.
- Cook: Air fry for 6–8 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Garnish and Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use crescent roll dough as a puff pastry alternative for a different texture.
- For extra cheesiness, add more Parmesan after baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
