Erin Merhar is a professionally trained chef, food stylist, and recipe developer. When she is not coming up with the next great dish for ThePioneerWoman.com, you can find her at the farmers' market or making pizza for friends.
Ooh, a grilled cheese sandwich—everyone makes them, and everyone loves them! It's the kind of recipe that doesn't really need a recipe. Take a couple of slices of bread, any types of cheese, a little butter (or a lot!), and a hot skillet, and you're on your way to a yummy lunch or easy dinner everyone will love. But after testing this favorite sandwich in The Pioneer Woman air fryer, we've got a few tips and tricks to share on how to make a truly excellent, gooey, crispy, air fryer grilled cheese sandwich. In fact, it might be one of our favorite air fryer recipes of all time! These quick-fix sandwiches are simply begging to be dunked in a bowl of tomato soup.
Is grilled cheese better on the stovetop or in an air fryer?
Cooking a grilled cheese sandwich in a skillet on the stovetop is the classic method for a reason. It's quick and yields a buttery, crispy sandwich with ease, but it does require some careful attention to make sure the bread isn't getting *too* toasty. With the air fryer method, you can plop your sandwich right in and walk away until it's time to flip. It's also a safer way for kids to make their own grilled cheese sandwiches if they're not quite ready to use the stove.
Why is my grilled cheese sandwich soggy?
It could be because you're using too much butter (gasp!), or it could be because you're not cooking the sandwich long enough. Just apply a thin layer of butter to the bread and cook the grilled cheese until it is golden brown and crispy.
What kind of bread is best for air fryer grilled cheese?
A sturdy bread, like sourdough or rustic Italian, cut at least 1/2-inch thick stands up well to the circulating heat of the air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer basket, shape matters as well. If using square shaped slices, it may be tricky to cook more than one sandwich at a time. Slices from a round, boule-shaped loaf were just the right size for two sandwiches to snuggly fit in the basket. This helps when trying to feed a crowd!
What kind of cheese is best for grilled cheese?
Two things to consider here: texture and flavor. Freshly grated cheese works best for the creamiest melt, while slices come in a close second. Pre-grated cheese absolutely works, but sometimes has an anti-clumping agent mixed in, which can get in the way of the smoothest melt. A sharper, slightly aged cheese, like cheddar, pairs well with a more mild, creamy cheese like havarti or monterey jack. For this recipe, smoked gouda lends a super soft, melty texture as well as a hint of smoky flavor. If you're working with slices, plan on 3 to 4 slices per sandwich (depending on the thickness.)
What can I add to a grilled cheese sandwich?
Spreading the inside of the bread with a little mayo and mustard makes this grilled cheese sandwich extra creamy, while giving a sharp, horseradish like bite. If you like a savory sandwich, add a few pickles or a scoop of sauerkraut, slices of bacon or ham, or even sautéed mushrooms or onions. Candied jalapeños (aka cowboy candy) can give the sandwich a little kick, while a smear of jam keeps a sweet and savory fan satisfied.
- Yields:
- 2 serving(s)
- Prep Time:
- 5 mins
- Total Time:
- 15 mins
Ingredients
- 4
slices sourdough bread
- 2 tbsp.
mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp.
Dijon mustard
- 1/2 c.
grated smoked gouda
- 1/2 c.
grated sharp cheddar
- 1 1/2 tbsp.
butter, softened
- Nutrition Information
- Per Serving (Serves 2)
- Calories1062 Fat37 gSaturated fat15 gTrans fat0 gCholesterol66 mgSodium2110 mgCarbohydrates139 gFiber6 gSugar14 gProtein39 gVitamin D0 mcgCalcium391 mgIron11 mgPotassium378 mg
- Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.Powered by
Directions
- Step 1Spread the mayo and mustard equally on one side of each of the 4 pieces of bread. Sprinkle the two types of cheeses equally on two of the pieces of bread. Top with the other slice (mayo/mustard side down).
- Step 2Butter one side of each sandwich, then place butter side down in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between the two sandwiches. Butter the top pieces of bread of each sandwich.
- Step 3Set the air fryer to 390°, and cook for 4 minutes. Flip the sandwiches and return to the air fryer for 4 to 6 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and toasted. Wait 1 to 2 minutes, then slice and serve.
Tip: Forgot to soften the butter? Spread mayonnaise on the outside side of the sandwich as well!
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