Toasty Air Fryer Sandwiches: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens and stovetops for preparing frozen foods and more. They can be used to make toasted sandwiches with a variety of fillings, such as meat, cheese, and vegetables. To make a toasted sandwich in an air fryer, you can spread butter, mayonnaise, or oil on the outside of the bread for a golden brown colour and a crispy texture. The sandwich is then placed in the air fryer basket and cooked for a few minutes, with the option to flip it over halfway through to ensure even browning.

Can you toast a sandwich in an air fryer?

Butter, mayo or oil on the outside of the bread

Butter, mayonnaise, or oil on the outside of the bread will help you achieve a golden brown colour and a crunchy texture.

If you're using butter, you can choose to add it before or after toasting your sandwich in the air fryer. Adding it before will allow the butter to melt into the bread. If you're using butter straight from the fridge, you may need to let it soften first so that it's easier to spread.

Mayonnaise is another option for the outside of your bread. It spreads easily and adds flavour and crunch to your sandwich.

You can also use oils such as olive oil or coconut oil. These dairy-free options will help you achieve a similar golden brown colour and crunchy texture.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the sandwich-making process. It ensures even cooking and helps you achieve that coveted golden-brown, crispy exterior. Here's a step-by-step guide to preheating your air fryer for the perfect toasted sandwich:

Step 1: Set the Temperature

Set your air fryer to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for toasting sandwiches is around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit (180-200 degrees Celsius). This temperature range will give you a nice, even toast without burning the bread.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Once you've set the temperature, let the air fryer preheat for a few minutes. Depending on your air fryer model, this could take around 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial, as it ensures that your sandwich will start cooking at the desired temperature as soon as it's placed in the air fryer.

Step 3: Prepare the Sandwich

While your air fryer is preheating, it's a good time to assemble your sandwich. Choose your favorite bread, such as sourdough or white bread, and spread a thin layer of butter, mayonnaise, or oil on the outside of each slice. This will help the bread toast evenly and give it a delicious, golden color.

Then, add your desired fillings. You can go for a classic grilled cheese with just cheese, or get creative with combinations like turkey, brie, and apple, or ham and cheese. If you're using deli meats, consider spreading a layer of mayo and mustard on the inside of the bread before adding the meat.

Step 4: Secure the Sandwich

Before placing your sandwich in the air fryer, use a toothpick to secure the top and bottom slices together. This will prevent the sandwich from flying open during cooking and ensure that your fillings stay inside.

Step 5: Place the Sandwich in the Air Fryer

Once your air fryer has preheated, carefully place the sandwich into the air fryer basket. Make sure it's lying flat and not stacked with any other sandwiches.

By following these steps and preheating your air fryer, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a perfectly toasted sandwich with a crispy exterior and warm, melty interior.

Cook time and temperature

The cook time and temperature for toasting a sandwich in an air fryer vary depending on the type of bread and the desired level of crispness. Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer before adding the sandwich. The temperature settings can range from 350°F to 400°F, and the cook time can be anywhere between 5 to 10 minutes.

For example, one recipe suggests preheating the air fryer to 350°F and cooking the sandwich for 3 minutes on each side, for a total cook time of 6 minutes. On the other hand, another recipe recommends cooking the sandwich at 400°F for 5 minutes on each side, resulting in a total cook time of 10 minutes.

It's important to keep an eye on the sandwich while it's cooking, as different types of bread may toast differently. Additionally, some recipes suggest flipping the sandwich halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.

It's worth noting that the temperature and timing settings may vary slightly depending on the model and brand of the air fryer being used. Therefore, it's always a good idea to refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the best results.

To achieve a golden brown and crispy sandwich, it is recommended to spread butter, mayonnaise, or oil on the outside of the bread before placing it in the air fryer. This step not only enhances the flavour but also ensures a crunchy texture.

Using toothpicks to hold the sandwich together

Using toothpicks to hold your sandwich together is a great way to ensure it stays in place while cooking in the air fryer. Toothpicks are especially useful if you're reheating a stacked sandwich or making sliders, as they prevent the ingredients from falling over or collapsing. Simply place a toothpick down the center of your sandwich to keep the ingredients properly layered.

Toothpicks are also handy if you're air-frying a closed sandwich and want to prevent the top layer from being blown off by the hot circulating air. Slip a couple of toothpicks into the corners of the sandwich before placing it in the air fryer. You can remove the toothpicks when it's time to flip, as the cheese will be melted enough to hold the sandwich together.

If you're making an open-faced sandwich, you can use toothpicks to secure the cheese to the bread. However, keep in mind that toothpicks can char a little if they're poking too high, so it's best to lay them on their side or soak them in water for 10 minutes before use.

Make sure to only use wooden or metal toothpicks in your air fryer. Avoid plastic toothpicks, decorative toothpicks, or those with plastic colors, as these can be dangerous.

Recipe variations

There are endless possibilities when it comes to making sandwiches in an air fryer. Here are some mouth-watering combinations to try:

• Turkey, Brie, and Apple: Layer some shaved turkey, brie, and thinly sliced sweet red apple on a bed of arugula. Drizzle with honey and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use sourdough bread for that extra crunch.
• Prosciutto, Mozzarella, Pesto, and Heirloom Tomato: A flavourful combination of ingredients that will leave you wanting more.
• Chicken with Cheddar, Chipotle Mayo, and Avocado: A delicious and creamy option for chicken lovers.
• Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey with Cranberry Sauce, Brie, and Spinach: Give your leftover turkey a delicious makeover with this tasty sandwich.
• Roast Beef and Cheddar: A classic combination that never gets old.
• Swiss and Ham: This traditional duo is always a good idea, especially when served hot and melty.
• Salami and Provolone: For a hearty and savoury bite, this combination is sure to satisfy.
• Gooey Cheese with Ham and Tomato: Butter the bread for an extra crunchy texture and enjoy the gooey cheese with the savoury ham and juicy tomato.
• Ham and Cheese: Use your favourite variety of deli meat, such as Hillshire Farm® Premium Carved Deli Meats, and your choice of cheese. Spread butter on the bread for a golden brown finish.

Frequently asked questions