I love a perfectly toasted grilled cheese, and using the air fryer to make this classic sandwich gives you a quick, crispy, and gooey sandwich. Air fryer grilled cheese is fast, less messy than the stovetop, and delicious.
Your sandwich is crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and ready in under 10 minutes! I admit grilled cheese isn’t the most challenging, but the air fryer can make it even easier.
You don’t have to worry about uneven toasting or getting the pan too hot. As an added bonus, there is almost no cleanup—just wipe the air fryer basket out, and it is ready to go.
My secret to a perfect grilled cheese sandwich is using mayonnaise instead of butter. Butter works, but mayonnaise is easier to spread and gives the sandwich a fabulous golden color.
Whether you are making a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this air-fried grilled cheese will become your new go-to favorite. In this post, I’ll cover my step-by-step method for getting crispy, gooey perfection with minimal effort.
Are you looking for more air fryer sandwich ideas? Try air fryer tuna melt, air fryer chicken sandwich, or air fryer grilled ham and cheese.
🥘Ingredient Notes
For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below
- Bread: The thicker slices hold up well in the air fryer and get that perfect golden crust.
- Cheese: Classic American cheese slices are a go-to for that melty, nostalgic flavor. But feel free to mix it up with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a slice of pepper jack for a little kick.
- Mayonnaise or Butter
🥣How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
- Start by spreading mayo (or butter) on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to get a nice, even layer.
- Place two slices of bread, mayo-side down, into the air fryer basket. Top each slice with a few pieces of cheese. Then, add the remaining bread slices, mayo-side up.
- Set your air fryer to 370°F. Cook the sandwiches for 4 minutes. Then, carefully flip them and cook for another 4 minutes. This ensures both sides get that perfect crispy, golden brown finish.
- Once the time is up, make sure the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. You can add another minute or two if you like it extra crispy. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
🍴Serving Ideas
There’s something magical about dipping a crispy, gooey grilled cheese into a warm bowl of tomato soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food combo.
Or balance the grilled cheese’s richness with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw works perfectly.
For an easy lunch, serve your grilled cheese with a side of pickles and some crunchy potato chips. The salty, tangy flavors complement the sandwich perfectly.
Delicious dipping sauces take grilled cheese to the next level. Try marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy Sriracha mayo. My kids love dipping their sandwiches—it makes mealtime more fun.
💭How to Store
If you have leftovers, wrap each grilled cheese sandwich in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To bring back that crispy goodness, reheat your grilled cheese in the air fryer. Set it to 350°F and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method works better than the microwave, which can make the bread soggy.
⭐Tips
Be sure to check out the step by step instructions
- For an extra gooey sandwich, add more cheese. Use at least two slices per sandwich, and feel free to mix different types of cheese. A combo of cheddar and mozzarella is a family favorite in my house.
- Air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on your sandwiches during cooking. If you notice the bread browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly.
- Add some thinly sliced tomatoes, crispy bacon, or even a smear of pesto inside the sandwich for extra flavor.
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Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread
- 6 slices cheese
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or butter
Instructions
- Spread the mayonnaise or butter on one side of each piece of bread.3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Put two slices of bread in the basket, coated side down. Top each with three slices of cheese and another slice of bread, with the mayonnaise side up.4 slices bread, 6 slices cheese
- Cook at 370 degrees F for 4 minutes.
- Flip the sandwiches over and cook for another 4 minutes on the other side.
Notes
- For an extra gooey sandwich, add more cheese. Use at least two slices per sandwich, and feel free to mix different types of cheese. A combo of cheddar and mozzarella is a family favorite in my house.
- Air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on your sandwiches during cooking. If you notice the bread browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly.
- Add some thinly sliced tomatoes, crispy bacon, or even a smear of pesto inside the sandwich for extra flavor.
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Nutrition Information
Nutrition facts are estimates.
