Air-Fried Egg On Toast: Quick, Easy Breakfast

Air Fryer Egg Toast is a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast option. It is perfect for those busy mornings when you have a lot of things to do – just pop it in the air fryer and go about your day. This recipe is also great because it requires minimal ingredients and can be adjusted to your preference. You can have a runny, semi-firm, or firm yolk, and you can also add cheese, salsa, avocado, or seasoning to spice it up.

Choosing the right bread

If you want to make a single slice of toast, choose a larger slice of bread, such as a thick-cut slice from a loaf of sourdough or Texas toast. If you're making multiple slices, go for a bread with smaller slices, such as a baguette or pre-sliced sandwich bread.

It's also important to consider the thickness of the bread. If you like your toast on the softer side, go for a thinner slice of bread. If you like it crispier, choose a thicker slice. The thickness of the bread will also affect the cooking time, with thicker slices taking longer to toast.

In addition, some types of bread may take longer to toast than others. For example, denser breads like sourdough or rye may take a little longer to get golden and crispy. So, when toasting your bread, keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn.

Finally, if you plan on adding butter or other toppings to your bread, choose a bread that will complement those flavors. For example, if you're adding sweet toppings like cinnamon and sugar, a plain white bread or brioche might be a good choice. If you're going for savory toppings like garlic or herbs, a heartier bread like sourdough or rye might be a better option.

How to prepare the bread

To prepare the bread for egg on toast in an air fryer, start by lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray. Then, take your bread and use the bottom of a glass to press down in the centre of the slice to create a well that will hold the egg. You can also use a cookie cutter to cut a hole in the centre of the bread. Make sure the indent is deep enough so that the egg doesn't run off the toast.

Next, you can butter the bread if you like, focusing on the edges around the well. You can also season the bread with salt and pepper, or other seasonings like onion powder, paprika, or everything bagel seasoning.

Finally, carefully place the bread into the preheated air fryer basket, buttered side up. You can now crack an egg into the well of the bread and it's ready to be cooked!

Adding cheese

First, you'll want to make sure you have the right ingredients. While you can use any type of bread and cheese you like, some options work better than others. For bread, choose a larger slice that can hold the egg without it overflowing. White or wheat bread works well, and thicker slices may require a little extra toasting time. For cheese, opt for a semi-hard melting variety like cheddar, red Leicester, or gouda. Grated cheese is best, and if you're grating it yourself, that's even better than pre-grated cheese.

Now, for the cooking process. Start by pre-toasting your bread in the air fryer. This will ensure the bread has a slight crisp throughout and isn't too bready under the cheese. Lightly butter one side of the bread, then place it butter-side down in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.

Next, it's time to add the cheese. Take your bread out of the air fryer and flip it over. Spread your grated cheese over the toast, making sure it reaches the edges. You can also add any desired toppings at this point, like Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, or chopped ham.

Finally, put the toast back into the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling. And that's it! You now have a delicious and cheesy egg on toast made in your air fryer. Enjoy!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for making egg on toast in an air fryer depend on how well you like your eggs cooked. For a runny yolk and slightly runny whites, cook for 7 minutes at 330-340°F. For a gooey, jammy yolk and set whites, air fry for 8 minutes at 330-340°F. If you prefer a more well-done egg, cook for 9 minutes at 330-340°F. This will give you set whites and a firm yolk.

It's worth noting that all air fryers cook a little differently, so you may need to experiment to find the perfect cooking time and temperature for your specific model. The thickness of the bread and the size and temperature of the eggs can also affect the cooking time.

If you want to add cheese to your egg on toast, sprinkle it on during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking so that it melts nicely without burning.

Serving suggestions

Air Fryer Egg Toast is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience:

Classic Combinations

Create a hearty breakfast plate by pairing your Air Fryer Egg Toast with some crispy bacon or sausage links. For a lighter option, serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a bowl of cereal. If you're looking for a more indulgent treat, avocado slices or a dollop of salsa can add a creamy texture and a burst of flavour.

Cheesy Delights

For cheese lovers, there are endless possibilities. Sprinkle your favourite shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Colby Jack, on top of the egg during the last minute of cooking for a gooey, melted treat. Alternatively, you can create an open-faced grilled cheese sandwich by placing a slice of cheese between two pieces of bread before adding the egg.

Spicy Kick

Add some heat to your breakfast with a few simple additions. Sprinkle red chilli flakes or a dash of sriracha on top of your egg toast for an extra kick. If you're a fan of spicy condiments, a drizzle of hot sauce or ketchup on your eggs can also spice things up.

Fresh and Healthy Options

For a refreshing and nutritious boost, serve your Air Fryer Egg Toast with a side of fresh fruits or yogurt. Chopped avocado or sliced tomatoes can also add a creamy texture and a burst of colour to your plate. If you're an herb enthusiast, a sprinkle of fresh chives can introduce a subtle onion-like flavour with a hint of garlic.

Hearty Extras

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, consider adding a slice of deli ham to your Air Fryer Egg Toast. You can place it directly on top of the egg or line the bread indentation with it for a protein-packed breakfast. For a Mexican-inspired twist, top your egg toast with salsa and avocado slices.

Sweet Treats

For those with a sweet tooth, there are sweet alternatives to the traditional savoury combinations. Drizzle a touch of maple syrup or honey over your Air Fryer Egg Toast for a sweet and indulgent breakfast. This combination might seem unconventional, but it's worth exploring if you're craving something sugary.

Frequently asked questions