Patrick Oconnell
The air fryer is a popular choice for making grilled cheese sandwiches, with many people praising the method for its ability to create a crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese interior. The ideal temperature for cooking grilled cheese in an air fryer seems to be around 370-385°F, with a cook time of 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the desired level of browning. Some recipes suggest using butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread to achieve a golden crust, while others recommend spraying the sandwiches with oil.
Characteristics and Values Table for Grilled Cheese in an Air Fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 360-385°F |
| Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Bread | Thick-cut, white sandwich, sourdough, multi-grain, leftover artisan |
| Butter | Unsalted, softened at room temperature |
| Cheese | Sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Mozzarella, Colby Jack, Swiss, Provolone, American, Fontina, Havarti |
| Condiments | Mayonnaise, Pimento, Gochujang, Kimchi, Sauerkraut |
| Oil | Spray |
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What You'll Learn
Air fryer temperature settings
Air fryers are a great way to make grilled cheese sandwiches with crispy bread and gooey, melted cheese. The ideal temperature setting for a grilled cheese sandwich in an air fryer is between 360 to 385 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit, while others recommend 375 or 380 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature setting may depend on the type of bread and cheese used, as well as the desired level of browning. For example, thicker-cut bread like Texas toast or Sara Lee Artesano bread may require a higher temperature setting to achieve the desired level of crispness.
Once the desired temperature is reached, the sandwich is placed in the air fryer basket, and the cooking time begins. Most recipes suggest cooking the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on each side, for a total cook time of 4-6 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the sandwich and check it often to ensure that it doesn't burn and that the top slice of bread hasn't blown off.
The total cooking time will depend on the type of bread and cheese used, as well as the desired level of toastedness. Some recipes suggest cooking the sandwich for 3 minutes on each side, for a total cook time of 6 minutes, until the sandwich is golden and crusty all over. Others recommend a longer cooking time of 5-8 minutes on each side for a total of 10-16 minutes, depending on the desired level of browning.
Additionally, the type of fat used to grease the bread can also impact the cooking time and temperature setting. Butter, mayonnaise, and oil are all commonly used, and personal preference may dictate which is chosen.
In summary, the ideal air fryer temperature setting for a grilled cheese sandwich is between 360 to 385 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the desired level of browning and the type of bread and cheese used. The cooking time will also vary but typically ranges from 4 to 16 minutes, depending on the desired level of toastedness.
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Bread type
When making grilled cheese in an air fryer, the type of bread you use can affect the cooking time and the final texture of your sandwich. White sandwich bread is a traditional choice, but thicker-cut bread, such as Texas toast or Sara Lee Artesano bread, will give you a more substantial sandwich. Sourdough, multi-grain bread, or leftover artisan bread are also good options, but they may not toast as evenly or turn as golden in the air fryer.
The density and moisture content of the bread can impact how well it crisps up in the air fryer. For example, denser breads like sourdough or rye may take longer to cook through and may not get as crispy on the outside. Breads with a higher moisture content, such as soft white sandwich bread, can also affect the cooking time and crispness.
It's also important to consider the size and thickness of the bread slices. Smaller slices may require less butter and cheese to avoid overfilling the sandwich. Thicker slices may need a longer cooking time to ensure the cheese melts and the bread toasts properly.
Some recipes recommend using a toothpick to secure the sandwich together, especially if you're using thin bread, as this can help prevent the top slice from blowing off during cooking. However, be sure to remove the toothpick before serving.
Ultimately, the type of bread you use for your grilled cheese in an air fryer is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different types of bread to see which one you like best. Just keep in mind that denser or higher-moisture breads may require adjustments to the cooking time and temperature to achieve the desired level of crispness and melting.
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Cheese type
When it comes to choosing the cheese for your grilled cheese sandwich in the air fryer, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it is recommended to avoid pre-sliced or pre-shredded packaged cheese. Instead, grate your own cheese or use a block of cheese and slice it yourself. This ensures the cheese melts evenly and creates the perfect gooey texture.
For the best flavour and texture, it is ideal to use a combination of cheeses. Start with a sharp, flavourful cheese such as sharp cheddar, and then add a good melting cheese. Popular melting cheeses include Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Fontina, Havarti, or low-moisture mozzarella. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or American cheese.
The type of cheese you use will impact the overall taste and texture of your grilled cheese sandwich. For example, cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavour, while Monterey Jack adds a creamy, mild taste. Gruyère is known for its slightly nutty, sweet flavour and excellent melting properties. If you're looking for a more robust flavour, consider using a combination of cheeses like Colby Jack, or try adding some pimento cheese spread to your sandwich for an extra kick.
Additionally, consider the amount of cheese you use. A generous amount of cheese is recommended for a classic grilled cheese sandwich. However, if you're using smaller slices of bread, you may want to adjust and use less cheese to avoid overwhelming the sandwich. Ultimately, the cheese type and quantity you choose will depend on your personal preference and taste.
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Butter or mayonnaise
When it comes to making grilled cheese in an air fryer, you can use either butter or mayonnaise. Butter is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, and it can help you achieve that desirable buttery, crispy golden colour and flavour. You can use salted or unsalted butter, but it should be softened at room temperature before spreading on the bread.
Mayonnaise, on the other hand, is a less traditional option, but it has its advantages. Mayonnaise is ready to spread straight from the jar, so you don't have to wait for it to soften like butter. It can also contribute to an extra crispy exterior and browns beautifully without adding a mayonnaise flavour. If you want the best of both worlds, you can spread a layer of mayonnaise on the bread and then add a layer of butter on top.
If you decide to use butter, spread it on the outside of the bread slices that will face outwards when assembling the sandwich. If using mayonnaise, spread a light layer on the insides of the bread. You can also add a layer of butter on top of the mayonnaise for a richer flavour.
After applying the butter or mayonnaise, it's time to add the cheese. Cheddar is a popular choice, but you can also use other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Mozzarella, Swiss, Provolone, American, Fontina, or Havarti. Once the sandwiches are assembled, use toothpicks to secure them and prevent the bread from sticking or falling apart during cooking.
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Cooking time
The cooking time for grilled cheese in an air fryer depends on the temperature setting and the number of sandwiches cooked at the same time. Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to between 360 and 385 degrees Fahrenheit. At 370 degrees, it takes 2 to 3 minutes per side, or 4 to 6 minutes in total, to cook one sandwich. If you're cooking two sandwiches at the same time, it may take a little longer, around 6 to 8 minutes in total.
It's important to keep an eye on the sandwich while it's cooking, as the cooking time can vary depending on the type of bread and cheese used, as well as the specific air fryer model. The total cook time will also depend on your desired level of browning and crispness. Some recipes suggest checking the sandwich frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
If you're cooking at a higher temperature, such as 380 to 385 degrees, the cooking time may be slightly shorter. One recipe suggests cooking the sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, then an additional 1 to 2 minutes on the second side, for a total cooking time of 5 to 6 minutes.
On the other hand, if you prefer your grilled cheese to have a little more browning, you can cook it at a lower temperature for a longer time. One person reported cooking their sandwich at 360 degrees for 5 to 8 minutes per side, depending on their desired level of browning. This results in a cooking time of 10 to 16 minutes in total.
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Frequently asked questions
Preheat your air fryer to between 360 and 385 degrees Fahrenheit.
Air fry your grilled cheese for 2-3 minutes, flip the sandwich, and then cook for another 2-3 minutes. The total cooking time will depend on the type of bread and your desired level of brownness.
Use a toothpick to secure the sandwich.
White sandwich bread is a traditional choice, but thicker-cut bread, like Texas toast or sourdough, will give you a better texture.
