Air-Fryer Grilled Cheese: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic, beloved dish, but making them in an air fryer can elevate them to a whole new level. Air fryers can create grilled cheese sandwiches with the perfect texture—crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Not only do they taste amazing, but they are also incredibly easy to make, making them a great option for busy weeknights or for teaching kids how to cook. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich in your air fryer.

Choosing the right bread

The bread you choose for your grilled cheese sandwich is important, as it needs to be able to withstand the circulating heat of the air fryer and not burn too quickly. Here are some tips for choosing the right bread:

• Go for a sturdy bread such as sourdough, rustic Italian, or rustic bread. These types of bread have a thicker crust and denser texture that can stand up to the heat of the air fryer without burning too quickly.
• Choose a bread that is at least 1/2-inch thick. Thicker slices will help to prevent the bread from drying out or burning before the cheese is melted.
• Consider the shape of your bread slices. If using a square loaf, you may only be able to fit one sandwich at a time in your air fryer. Round, boule-shaped slices are a better fit for most air fryers and allow you to cook two sandwiches at once.
• If you want a classic grilled cheese, go for white sandwich bread. This type of bread will give you a familiar taste and texture.
• For a thicker, more substantial sandwich, choose a thicker-cut bread such as Texas toast or Sara Lee Artesano bread. These breads will give your sandwich a heartier feel.
• Sourdough, multi-grain bread, or leftover artisan bread are delicious options, but they may not toast as evenly or turn as golden in the air fryer.
• If you want a nuttier flavour and a denser texture, consider using whole-wheat sandwich bread.
• Country white bread is another option that will give your sandwich a slightly different flavour and texture.

Selecting the best cheese

The cheese you select for your grilled cheese sandwich is critical to its overall taste and texture. Here are some tips to help you choose the best cheese for your air fryer grilled cheese sandwich:

Texture and flavour

For the creamiest melt, grate your cheese fresh. Sliced cheese comes in at a close second, and pre-grated cheese can work, but it may not melt as smoothly due to the addition of anti-clumping agents.

Cheese combinations

A combination of cheeses will give your sandwich depth of flavour. Try pairing a sharper, slightly aged cheese like cheddar with a milder, creamier cheese like Monterey Jack or Havarti. Smoked gouda is another excellent option for a soft, melty texture and a hint of smoky flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try using three types of cheese, like in a Three-Cheese and Basil Grilled Cheese Sandwich.

Amount of cheese

The amount of cheese you use will depend on the thickness of your slices and the size of your bread. Generally, plan on using 3 to 4 slices of cheese per sandwich. If you're using shredded or grated cheese, you'll want enough to evenly cover the bread slice.

Melting cheese

Some cheeses melt better than others, and this is an important consideration for a grilled cheese sandwich. Cheeses like sharp cheddar, American, pepper jack, Gruyère, Fontina, and low-moisture mozzarella are known for their melting abilities and are excellent choices for your sandwich.

Customisation

Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect combination. You can also try adding other ingredients to your sandwich, like a thin slice of ham, sautéed mushrooms, or a smear of jam, to complement the cheese and take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level.

Butter or mayo?

When it comes to grilled cheese sandwiches in an air fryer, there are two schools of thought: butter or mayonnaise. While both have their pros and cons, the ultimate decision comes down to personal preference. Here are some detailed instructions and insights to help you decide which option is best for you.

Butter

Butter is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches and adds a delicious flavour to the dish. It is best to use softened butter at room temperature to ensure it spreads easily without tearing the bread. Butter also helps to achieve that desirable golden-brown colour and crispy texture. If you prefer the taste of butter, you can simply spread it on the outside of your bread slices before placing them in the air fryer.

Mayo

On the other hand, mayonnaise has a higher smoke point than butter, which means it takes longer for the bread to reach that golden-brown stage. This extra time allows the cheese to melt more thoroughly, creating a perfect combination of a crunchy exterior and a fluffy, gooey interior. Mayonnaise is also easier to spread straight from the fridge, so you don't have to worry about tearing the bread or waiting for it to soften.

Combining Butter and Mayo

Some people even opt for a combination of butter and mayonnaise, spreading a mixture of the two on the outside of the bread. This provides the best of both worlds: the flavour of butter and the higher smoke point and spreadability of mayonnaise.

Tips for Using Butter or Mayo in an Air Fryer

When using either butter or mayonnaise, it's important to secure your sandwich with a toothpick, especially if you're using lightweight bread. This will prevent the bread from flying off the sandwich due to the circulating air in the air fryer. Additionally, be sure to keep an eye on your sandwich while it's cooking, as air fryers can vary in temperature and cooking time.

In conclusion, the choice between butter and mayonnaise for grilled cheese sandwiches in an air fryer is a matter of personal preference. Both options have their advantages, and you can even combine them for a unique flavour and texture. Experiment with different brands and types of butter and mayonnaise to find your favourite, and don't be afraid to get creative with your grilled cheese creations!

How to stop the cheese from flying off

How to Keep the Cheese from Flying Off in the Air Fryer

When making a grilled cheese sandwich in an air fryer, one common issue is the cheese melting and flying off the bread. Here are some tips to prevent this from happening and ensure your grilled cheese stays intact:

Use the Right Cheese:

Choose a cheese that melts well but also holds its shape. Go for a cheese with a higher melting point to prevent it from getting too runny. Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Swiss cheese are good options as they melt well but also have a relatively higher melting point compared to other cheeses. Avoid using soft cheeses like brie or camembert as they are too runny when melted.

Grate Your Own Cheese:

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grate your own cheese from a block, as this will give you more control over the texture and ensure a better melt. Grating your own cheese also allows you to choose the thickness of the shreds, which can help with even melting.

Create a Barrier:

Before adding your cheese, create a barrier on the bread to help contain the melt. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise, butter, or softened cream cheese on the inside of each slice of bread. This creates a protective layer that helps the cheese adhere to the bread and prevents it from oozing out.

Use a Lower Temperature:

Air fryers can get very hot, so adjust the temperature to ensure a slower melt. Cook your grilled cheese at a lower temperature, around 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit, for a longer time. This will allow the cheese to melt slowly and evenly without flying off the sandwich.

Weight It Down:

Place a lightweight item, such as a small piece of foil or baking paper, directly on top of the sandwich in the air fryer. This will help weigh it down and prevent the cheese from escaping. Just ensure that whatever you use is air fryer-safe and won't melt or affect the taste of your sandwich.

Choose the Right Bread:

Opt for a firmer, denser bread that can hold up to the weight of the cheese. A sturdy sourdough or a thick-sliced country loaf will work better than a soft white bread that can easily fall apart. Toasting the bread lightly before assembling can also help it hold together better.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a perfectly melted grilled cheese sandwich from your air fryer without the mess of escaped cheese.

What to serve with grilled cheese sandwiches

There are many options for what to serve with grilled cheese sandwiches. Here are some ideas:

Soups

A classic pairing is grilled cheese with tomato soup. You could also try roasted red pepper soup, creamy tomato bisque, heirloom tomato gazpacho, roasted fennel and white bean tomato soup, or a simple vegetable or broth-based meat soup.

Salads

A crisp, refreshing salad can be a great side dish. Try a simple green salad, or get creative with a cucumber avocado tomato salad with pesto, a watermelon feta salad, or a zucchini feta salad with hazelnuts. A fruit salad or a combination of your favourite fruits with Greek yoghurt would also be a tasty, refreshing option.

Chips and Fries

French fries are a classic side dish, but if you're looking for something a little different, try sweet potato fries. You could also serve potato or veggie crisps, or even make your own truffle fries or polenta chips.

Dips and Sauces

Grilled cheese sandwiches are often served with a dip or sauce on the side. Try ketchup, mustard, marinara sauce, or a chutney or jam if you like a sweet and savoury combination.

Other Sides

Pickles are a popular side dish for grilled cheese, or you could try baked beans, potato salad, or coleslaw.

Frequently asked questions