Crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese: Quick & Delicious (Print Version)

Crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese is a weeknight lifesaver! Get that golden, buttery crunch without the fuss. My secret for a perfectly melty, easy sandwich.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1 Serving
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ The Bread & Butter

01 - 2 slices Sourdough Bread
02 - 1 tbsp Salted Butter, softened

→ Cheesy Goodness

03 - 1/4 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
04 - 1/4 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded

→ Flavor Boosters

05 - Pinch of Salt
06 - Pinch of Black Pepper

→ Optional Extras

07 - 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get your bread slices ready. I like to spread a generous, even layer of softened salted butter on one side of each slice. Be gentle! You don't want to tear the bread. This is where you can sprinkle a tiny bit of garlic powder if you're feeling fancy, which honestly, I usually am. I always try to get the butter right to the edges for that all-over golden crunch. It smells so good even before it hits the heat!
02 - Now, flip one slice of bread, butter-side down. Pile on your shredded cheddar, then the Monterey Jack. Don't be shy, but don't overstuff it either, or you'll have cheese oozing everywhere in the air fryer – I've made that messy mistake more times than I can count. A little pinch of salt and pepper over the cheese, then top with the other slice of bread, butter-side up. Make sure it's snug!
03 - This step is crucial, friends! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Seriously, don't skip this like I did on my first try. A preheated air fryer ensures that immediate crisp and even cooking. While it's heating up, I usually do a little happy dance, anticipating that Air Fryer Grilled Cheese goodness.
04 - Carefully place your assembled Air Fryer Grilled Cheese into the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 4-6 minutes. Now, this is important: after 4-6 minutes, flip the sandwich! You want to make sure both sides get that gorgeous, deep golden brown. If your air fryer runs hot, check it a minute earlier. I once left it in too long and had a slightly charred situation. Oops!
05 - After flipping, continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until both sides are beautifully golden brown and the cheese inside is gloriously melted and gooey. You'll hear the sizzle, you'll see the color, and the smell of toasted bread and melting cheese will fill your kitchen. It’s a sensory experience, honestly!
06 - Once it's done, carefully remove the Air Fryer Grilled Cheese from the basket. Don't cut into it immediately! Let it rest on a cutting board for just a minute or two. This helps the cheese settle a bit and prevents all that delicious melty goodness from spilling out when you slice it. Then, slice it diagonally (because that just tastes better, right?) and serve immediately. Pure bliss!

# Notes:

01 - Always preheat your air fryer for the best crispy crust, I learned this the hard way!
02 - Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for a decent crisp, microwaving makes it sad and soggy.
03 - Try brushing mayonnaise on the outside instead of butter for an extra-crispy, tangy crust.
04 - Serve with creamy tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal, it's my absolute favorite combo.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Air fryer
02 - cutting board
03 - knife

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 28g
Total Carbohydrate: 35g
Protein: 20g

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