You want garlic bread but don’t have an oven? No problem! I’ll show you some easy and clever ways to cook frozen garlic bread without an oven. My husband and kids love these methods, and I think you will too.
How to Cook Frozen Garlic Bread Without an Oven?
Cooking frozen garlic bread without an oven is quite easy! Try simple pan-frying, and toaster toasting, or get adventurous with an air fryer, BBQ grill, sandwich press, campfire, waffle press, Instant Pot, and even deep fryer. These easy, fun methods will add a delightful twist to your garlic bread.
Below you will find instructions for each cooking method.
1. Pan-frying
Every now and then, I crave that classic fried taste that only a stovetop can offer. Pan-frying gives a golden crust to garlic bread that’s hard to resist.
Here are simple steps on how to cook frozen garlic bread on a frying pan.
Steps:
- Heat a pan on medium heat and add some clarified butter or cooking oil.
- Place your garlic bread slices in the pan, on a single layer.
- Fry for a few minutes on each side until they’re golden and crispy.
Top Tip: If you’re using store-bought frozen garlic bread, it can often benefit from an extra touch of garlic butter. To make homemade garlic butter, simply mix softened butter with minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and chopped parsley. Spread a thin layer on the bread before cooking to intensify its garlic flavor and add a homemade touch.
2. Toasting Garlic Bread: Regular Toaster vs. Toaster Oven
The beauty of toasting is its simplicity. On frantic mornings, slipping a slice into my regular toaster is a lifesaver. And while it’s a fast solution, remember it’s more about convenience than gourmet dining.
For times when I’m not racing against the clock and need multiple slices, or if you cooking for the crowd the toaster oven is the better option.
Using Regular Toaster with Frozen Garlic Bread:
Steps:
- Toast garlic bread straight from the freezer. However, when using a regular toaster with a top slot, note that the moisture from the frozen bread might cause it to steam slightly at first. This could make the bread a bit softer initially, but as it continues toasting, it should regain its crispiness.
- Set the toaster to a medium setting to ensure even toasting. Because the bread is frozen, it may take a bit longer than usual. Monitor closely to prevent the butter from smoking.
- If you have multiple frozen slices to toast and are using a regular toaster, toast them consecutively, but allow a short break between batches to prevent excess moisture in the toaster.
Toaster Oven with Frozen Garlic Bread:
Steps:
- Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the garlic bread in whole or slices in the toaster oven. The dry heat helps in evaporating excess moisture and crisping the bread effectively.
- Toast for about 5-7 minutes. Check the bread and, if necessary, add an extra 1-2 minutes until you reach a pleasing golden hue.
- Consider rotating the tray or flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even results.
3. Microwaving
I was skeptical about microwaving garlic bread, fearing it would turn soggy. But actually, with the right technique, it’s a quick method that retains moisture. While it’s not my first choice, but it does speed up the defrosting of the bread.
Steps:
- Briefly microwave the bread to thaw and soften it.
- For a crispy finish, transfer the bread to a pan, panini press, or griddle.
- Alternatively, use a microwave crisping sleeve or a crisping tray like the one below, and make sure to follow the instructions.
TAP ON IMAGE TO VIEW PRICE
4. Air Fryer
For me, the air fryer is a revelation. It combines speed with the ability to produce crispy garlic bread or any many other frozen foods, making it my go-to when I’m serving guests and don’t want to wait for the oven to heat up. It’s a faster alternative without compromising on deliciousness!
Steps:
- Preheat your air fryer.
- Place the bread inside, making sure the slices don’t overlap.
- Adjust the time and temperature based on your desired level of crispiness.
- Flip the slices over if not crisping evenly.
- Periodically check the bread to avoid overcooking.
Check Out Also: Best Crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Sandwich (+Video).
5. BBQ Grill Method
The smoky flavors of a BBQ grill can add an extra layer of taste to your garlic bread. Grilling garlic bread on a BBQ is perfect for summer cookouts or when you’re already grilling other dishes.
Steps:
- Preheat your BBQ grill to medium heat.
- If your garlic bread is already buttered, place it directly on the grill. If it’s plain, brush it with some melted butter or oil to prevent sticking and enhance the flavor.
- Place the frozen garlic bread slices or the whole breadstick on the grill and close the lid.
- Grill for about 3-4 minutes on one side until you see grill marks and the bread starts turning golden.
- Flip the bread, close the lid again, and grill for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
6. Sandwich Press or Panini Press Method
Using a sandwich or panini press is another effective way to cook frozen garlic bread. The press not only heats the bread from both sides simultaneously but also gives it a nice, compressed crispiness.
Steps:
- Preheat your sandwich or panini press.
- If your garlic bread isn’t pre-buttered, lightly brush both sides with some butter or oil.
- Place the frozen garlic bread slices onto the press, ensuring not to overcrowd.
- Close the press and let the bread cook for about 4-6 minutes. Since the press heats from both sides, this method is relatively quick.
- Check for desired crispiness. If needed, press for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from the press and serve immediately.
7. Campfire or Fire Pit Method
If you’re outdoorsy and love the smoky flavor that a campfire or fire pit can impart, this method is for you. It’s a perfect way to enjoy garlic bread during a camping trip or a backyard bonfire evening.
Steps:
- Prepare a campfire or get your fire pit going until you have steady, low flames and some hot coals.
- Wrap the frozen garlic bread slices in aluminum foil. This will prevent them from burning and catch any melting butter or garlic.
- Place the foil-wrapped garlic bread near the hot coals, not directly over the flames to avoid burning.
- Allow the bread to heat for about 5-7 minutes on one side, then flip and heat the other side.
- Carefully open the foil to check for doneness. The bread should be warm throughout with a slightly crisp exterior.
8. Waffle Press Method for Frozen Garlic Bread
Although unconventional, a waffle press can still do a great job cooking frozen garlic bread. This method can give your bread a unique and fun look if you press the waffle press too hard.
Steps:
- Warm up your waffle press.
- If your garlic bread doesn’t have butter on it, lightly spread some melted butter or oil on both sides. This helps the bread turn a nice golden color and prevents sticking.
- Place the frozen garlic bread on the press. Depending on the size of your press, you may fit one or more pieces at once.
- Close the press gently. Don’t push down hard; you want to keep the bread thick.
- Let it cook for about 4-6 minutes. Check intermittently to ensure it doesn’t become too brown or burn.
- When done, remove it carefully and enjoy your waffled garlic bread!
9. Instant Pot Method
While the Instant Pot is typically used for slow cooking, sautéing, and pressure cooking, did you know that it can also cook frozen garlic bread? Yes, you read that right! If you’re already using the Instant Pot for another dish, why not use it to prepare garlic bread as well?
Steps:
- Turn on your Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function to heat up the pot.
- Once hot, add a little bit of butter or oil.
- Place the frozen garlic bread slices in the pot.
- Use the sauté function for about 3-5 minutes per side. You might need to do this in batches if your Instant Pot is small.
- Keep an eye on the bread to make sure it doesn’t burn. When it’s golden and crisp to your liking, take it out and enjoy!
10. Deep Fryer Method for Frozen Garlic Bread
Deep-frying is not exactly the healthiest option, but boy does it deliver on texture and taste. When deep-fried, frozen garlic bread turns incredibly crispy and delicious. Perfect for those cheat days!
Steps:
- Preheat your deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Gently lower the frozen garlic bread slices into the hot oil using a basket or a slotted spoon.
- Fry for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the bread slices carefully and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Read more about deep frying here: How To Deep Fry Food At Home — Oil Temperatures And Cooking Times
Conclusion
Even if you don’t have an oven, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of frozen garlic bread. From quick methods like toasting and microwaving to elaborate ones like grilling and air frying, you have a plethora of options. Choose the one that best suits your needs, and enjoy your garlic bread to the fullest!
So the next time someone says, “But you can’t have garlic bread without an oven,” you can confidently prove them wrong. With these clever ways, you’ll never have to miss out on this delightful treat again. Enjoy!
If you found these tips helpful, feel free to share them with friends and family. Bon appétit!
(Note: Always remember to adjust cooking times based on your appliance and personal preferences. The methods above are general guidelines and might not be suitable for all types of garlic bread.)
I know you like garlic bread but not everyone does. Check out my latest post here: How To Get Rid Of Garlic Breath And Body Odor (11 Smell Busters).