How to make air fryer grilled cheese
Making a grilled cheese in the air fryer is incredibly simple and results in a perfectly crispy, golden-brown sandwich with gooey melted cheese inside. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough work well)
- 2-3 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1-2 tablespoons of butter (softened)
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help achieve that crispy, golden exterior.
- Place the cheese slices between the two pieces of bread, with the buttered sides facing outwards.
- Carefully place the sandwich in the air fryer basket. Make sure the sandwich is centered and not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
- Air fry the sandwich for 4-5 minutes, then flip it over using tongs or a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the grilled cheese from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute before slicing and serving.
Tips for the perfect crispy texture
To achieve the perfect crispy texture for your air fryer grilled cheese, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Use softened butter: Make sure the butter is soft enough to spread evenly across the bread. This ensures that the entire surface crisps up nicely. Cold butter can tear the bread and result in uneven browning.
- Don’t skimp on the butter: While you don’t want to overdo it, a thin but even layer of butter on both slices of bread is essential for that golden, crispy exterior. If you prefer, you can also use mayonnaise instead of butter for a slightly tangier flavor and an equally crispy result.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the sandwich helps to create an even cooking environment. This step ensures that the bread starts crisping up as soon as it hits the hot air, preventing sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Make sure the sandwich has enough space in the air fryer basket. Air needs to circulate around the sandwich to cook it evenly. If you’re making more than one sandwich, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Flip halfway through: Flipping the sandwich halfway through cooking is crucial for even browning on both sides. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully turn the sandwich over without squishing it.
- Check for doneness: Air fryer models can vary slightly in cooking times, so keep an eye on your sandwich. If the bread is golden and crispy but the cheese isn’t fully melted, you can lower the temperature slightly and cook for an additional minute or two.
- Let it rest: After removing the grilled cheese from the air fryer, let it sit for a minute before slicing. This allows the cheese to settle and prevents it from spilling out when you cut into the sandwich.
Variations and add-ins for extra flavor
If you’re looking to elevate your air fryer grilled cheese beyond the classic recipe, there are plenty of ways to add extra flavor and texture. Here are some delicious variations and add-ins to try:
- Cheese combinations: Instead of sticking to just one type of cheese, mix and match for a more complex flavor. Try combining sharp cheddar with mozzarella for a balance of tangy and creamy, or add a slice of gouda or gruyère for a nutty, rich taste.
- Herbs and spices: Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika on the buttered side of the bread before air frying. Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or chives can also be added between the cheese slices for a burst of freshness.
- Meat add-ins: For a heartier sandwich, add thin slices of ham, turkey, or crispy bacon between the cheese layers. Prosciutto or salami can also bring a salty, savory element to your grilled cheese.
- Vegetables: Add some texture and flavor by incorporating vegetables. Thinly sliced tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions work beautifully with melted cheese. Just be sure to pat any vegetables dry to avoid making the sandwich soggy.
- Spreads and sauces: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard, pesto, or even a bit of hot sauce on the inside of the bread before adding the cheese. These spreads can add a tangy or spicy kick to your grilled cheese.
- Sweet and savory: For a unique twist, try adding a touch of sweetness. A drizzle of honey or a spoonful of fig jam pairs wonderfully with cheeses like brie or goat cheese. You can also add thin slices of apple or pear for a sweet and crunchy contrast.
- Different breads: While white or whole wheat bread is traditional, you can experiment with other types of bread for added flavor and texture. Sourdough, rye, or even a brioche bun can take your grilled cheese to the next level.