⏱ Time
- Prep: 5 minutes
- Cook: 6–8 minutes
- Total: ~10 minutes
🍞 Ingredients (1 sandwich)
- 2 slices bread (white, sourdough, or brioche work best)
- 2 slices cheese (cheddar, American, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1–2 tbsp softened butter or mayonnaise (for extra crispiness)
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes
(This helps the bread crisp instantly.)
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Spread butter or mayonnaise evenly on one side of each bread slice
- Make sure the edges are well coated for maximum crunch
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Place cheese slices between the unbuttered sides
- Press gently so the sandwich holds together
Step 4: Air Fry – First Side
- Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket
- Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes
- The bottom should be golden and crispy
Step 5: Flip Carefully
- Using tongs, gently flip the sandwich
- Cook for another 3–4 minutes until deeply golden and crisp
Step 6: Rest & Melt
- Remove from the air fryer
- Let it rest 1 minute so the cheese fully melts and settles
✨ Pro Tips for EXTRA Crispiness
- Use mayonnaise instead of butter (creates a shatter-crispy crust)
- Add a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the outside before cooking
- For thicker bread, lower heat to 360°F (182°C) and cook 1–2 minutes longer
🧂 Optional Add-Ins
- Thin tomato slices (pat dry first)
- Crispy bacon
- Caramelized onions
- Garlic powder on the outside
🧡 Serving Ideas
- Tomato soup
- Pickles or coleslaw
- Potato wedges or chips
If you want, I can also:
- Create a kid-friendly version
- Make a cheese-lover triple-cheese version
- Write this recipe for Pinterest / website / social media caption
Just tell me 👌