These air fryer grilled ham and cheese sandwiches are crispy on the outside and filled with gooey, melted cheese inside. It’s a cozy, quick lunch or snack idea—perfect for using leftover ham or deli slices. Easy enough for beginners, and tasty enough to feel fancy!
Why You’ll Love It
- Great way to use leftover ham
- Quick and simple
- Crunchy outside, melty inside
- Kid- and adult-approved
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese (any kind you like)
- 1 tablespoon of softened butter or mayonnaise
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Spread a thin layer of butter or mayo on one side of each slice of bread. If you like mustard, you can add that to the inside of the sandwich instead.
Step 2: Build the Sandwich
Place one slice of cheese and one slice of ham between two slices of bread (buttered sides should face out). This makes one sandwich. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Place in Air Fryer
Put the sandwiches into your air fryer basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer and not stacked. If your air fryer uses trays, place them on the tray instead.
Step 4: Air Fry
Cook at 370°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Flip each sandwich halfway through. The sandwich is done when it’s golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Tips & Tricks
- Cooking times may vary by air fryer model.
- Add sliced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Use different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss for variety.
- Try sourdough or any bread you prefer—but don’t let slices overlap.
- If bread flies up in the air fryer, secure it with a toothpick.
Variations
- Mix cheeses for different tastes—try blue cheese or goat cheese for something bold.
- No ham? Make it a classic grilled cheese or a Caprese version with tomato and basil.
Storing & Reheating
These sandwiches taste best fresh, but you can save leftovers:
- Let them cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- To reheat, air fry again for 2–4 minutes to make them crispy.
Note: Reheated cheese might not melt as smoothly, but the taste is still great!
Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese
Time Required:
Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 10–12 mins
Total: 17 mins
Equipment Needed:
- Air fryer
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese
- 1 tablespoon of butter or mayonnaise
Instructions
- Spread butter or mayo on one side of each bread slice.
- Make sandwiches with ham and cheese between two bread slices, buttered sides facing out.
- Put sandwiches in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook at 370°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Done when golden and cheese is melted.
Notes
- Time may vary by air fryer.
- Try using different cheese or bread for new flavors.
- Avoid stacking sandwiches while cooking.
