Here I’ll give you some tips and tricks to making a perfect grilled cheese in the air fryer!
If you first got an air fryer and, like me, tested everything possible in it, this recipe is for you. I tested what works and what doesn’t, so you can follow these straightforward tips to make a perfect air fryer grilled cheese.
Grilled Cheese
Basic grilled cheese technique applies, with a few adjustments for the air fryer.
Butter me up baby
Grilled cheese from the air fryer can feel slightly drier than the pan-fried version, so use a touch more butter than usual. Some prefer mayo on the bread for its sheen and flavor, but butter gives the best classic result in my experience.
Securing the sandwich
Occasionally the top slice can lift or even fly off in the air fryer. To avoid this, press the sandwich gently before placing it in the basket so the slices are snug and the filling is contained.
What cheese to use?
Use whatever cheese you enjoy, sliced or grated. For these photos I used a combination of Cheddar and Mozzarella for melty stretch and sharp flavor.
Process shots: slice bread (photo 1), add cheese (photo 2), add bread (photo 3), press down (photo 4), spread with butter (photo 5), flip then spread with butter (photo 6).
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese FAQ
What temperature to air fry a grilled cheese?
190°C / 375°F is a reliable temperature. It crisps the bread while giving enough heat for the cheese to melt through.
How long to air fry for?
Around 8 minutes total is typical: roughly 5 minutes on the first side, then 2–3 minutes after flipping. All air fryers vary, so watch your first sandwich closely.
Do I have to flip the sandwich halfway?
Yes. The top will brown after about 5 minutes, while the bottom remains soft. Flipping finishes the second side more quickly, usually within 2–3 minutes.
Can I make multiple grilled cheese at once?
Yes, if your air fryer fits them. Keep sandwiches separated so they don’t stick together as the cheese melts.
Serving an Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
Air fryer grilled cheese can be a touch drier than the stovetop version, so serving it with a dipping sauce, condiment, or a bowl of soup is a great idea. Classic pairings include tomato soup or roasted red pepper soup to add moisture and complementary acidity.
Alrighty, let’s tuck into the full recipe for this air fried grilled cheese shall we?!
How to make a Grilled Cheese in the Air Fryer (Full Recipe & Video)
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Sharp Knife & Chopping Board
Ingredients
- 2 medium / large slices of Bread
- 3 – 4 square slices of Cheese (see notes)
- Butter as needed
Instructions
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Add cheese to a slice of bread then place another slice on top. Gently press down, then butter both sides (about 1 modest tbsp per side).
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Place in the air fryer at 190°C / 375°F for 5 minutes, or until the top is golden. Check after 30–60 seconds to ensure the top slice hasn’t lifted.
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Carefully flip the sandwich and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
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Serve immediately with your preferred condiment or soup.
Quick Demo
Notes
b) Top slice – The air fryer’s airflow can sometimes lift the top slice. Check within the first 30–60 seconds; if it lifts, press it back and it will seal as the cheese melts.
c) Multiple sandwiches – You can cook more than one if your fryer fits them. Keep them separated so they don’t stick together.
d) Timings – Air fryers and sandwich sizes vary, so monitor the first batch to fine-tune time and temperature for your setup.
e) Serving – Because they can be slightly drier, pair air fryer grilled cheese with a sauce, condiment, or soup for the best experience.
Nutrition:
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If you loved this Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Recipe be sure to Pin it for later! Already made it or got a burning question? Give me a shout in the comments below!