Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
Reduce the grease and keep the flavor with this easy-to-make Air Fryer Grilled Cheese recipe!
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I have so many childhood memories that revolve around grilled cheese sandwiches. My mother would make them with all sorts of cheeses, from sharp cheddar to smoked provolone, and there’d always be a steaming bowl of tomato soup for dipping. I may have left home decades ago, but my love of grilled cheese has stayed with me. I’m always looking for a new spin on this American favorite, and I think I’ve found it with this air fryer grilled cheese recipe. It’s an easy way to get that nostalgically delicious golden crust without the mess of traditional frying. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a speedy lunch.
So how do I brown the bread without using greasy oil? Mayonnaise! Yes, mayo. The mayo is not only excellent at evenly browning the bread, but it also adds a subtle tangy flavor that goes well with the cheese. As far as cheese goes, the sky is the limit. Personally, I like sharper cheese, but traditional American cheese is good, too. For more air fryer inspiration, check out our air fryer chicken tenders and homemade french fries.
Is Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Healthy?
Admittedly, this recipe isn’t low-fat or low-calorie—we’re talking cheese and bread, after all. While grilled cheese may not be considered a healthy food, using an air fryer can make it a tad healthier. Traditional grilled cheese requires lots of butter or oil, but your air fryer takes the excess fat out of the caloric equation.
Another way to make this recipe is by using whole grain or sprouted grain bread for added fiber. Also, opt for reduced-fat cheese. And for a vegan twist, use vegan mayo and cheese.
How do I get the perfect crisp?
The key to perfectly crispy air fryer grilled cheese lies in the mayonnaise coating. I know butter is the go-to for grilled cheese, but it’s messy. Mayonnaise spreads more easily and evenly. The result? A consistent golden—and tasty—crust. It also has a higher smoke point of 450°F, compared to butter’s 350°F. I even use mayo when I make my grilled cheese in the pan—it’s that good.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 slices sandwich bread, each no more than 1/2-inch thick
- Mayonnaise, as needed
- 2 to 4 slices melting cheese (such as sharp cheddar, American, or Pepper Jack), depending on thickness
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat
Get the air fryer ready at 400°F.
Assemble
Spread mayo on the bread, add cheese, and top with another bread slice.
Cook
Air fry until golden and the cheese melts.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
I’m gonna stop you right here. I strongly suggest you make ‘em and eat ‘em right away. Grilled cheese is at its gooey finest hot off the air fryer. But should you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge. They should be okay for 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain the crispiness.
While classic white bread is great, I’d recommend venturing out. Try sourdough, whole grain, or even brioche for different textures and flavors. Maintain your bread’s thickness at a ½ inch so your cheese melts thoroughly.
Absolutely! Grilled cheese sandwiches are incredibly versatile. You can add ingredients like tomatoes, avocado slices, bacon, spinach, or caramelized onions. Even a fried egg is super delish. However, as tempting as it may be, avoid overstuffing the sandwich to ensure the star ingredient (the cheese!) melts.
Serving Suggestions
You know what I’m gonna say, right? Oh, you know it. You gotta serve tomato soup with grilled cheese! That’s, like, a requirement. Actually, carrot soup is great for dipping, too, because its natural sweetness contrasts with the salty and savory flavor of the grilled cheese. Or try something completely different, such as our corn salad or avocado fries!
Air-Fryer Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 slices sandwich bread each no more than 1/2-inch thick
- mayonnaise as needed
- 2 to 4 slices melting cheese such as sharp cheddar, American, or Pepper Jack, depending on thickness
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F if your model requires preheating.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of bread, mayonnaise-side down, in the air fryer basket. Add cheese on top, then cover with the second slice of bread, mayonnaise-side up.
- Air fry the sandwich for approximately 3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Nutrition
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