This Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is a quick and tasty breakfast option. With a fluffy egg and melted cheese on crispy toast, it’s hard to resist!
I love making this for a busy morning. It takes just minutes, and I get my protein fix with a delicious crunch. Plus, the cheese pull is just too fun to watch! 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend slightly thick-cut bread for the best texture. You can use sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread if you’re avoiding gluten. Just keep in mind that thicker bread creates a better base for holding the egg.
Eggs: Large eggs work perfectly, but you can substitute with medium eggs if that’s what you have. If you’re following a plant-based diet, try using a substitute like tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water for a similar texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for its meltiness, but cheddar adds a rich flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses or try others like pepper jack for a little spice. Vegan cheese products can work too for a dairy-free version.
Butter/Oil: Brushing the bread with butter gives a nice golden crisp, but olive oil is a healthy alternative. You could skip this step if you want a lighter toast.
How Can I Ensure My Egg is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the egg just right can be tricky! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by preheating your air fryer; this helps cook the toast evenly.
- Keep the egg in the well of the bread and avoid overfilling it. This prevents spilling.
- Check for doneness after 8 minutes to make sure the yolk is your preferred runniness. If you’re unsure, use a toothpick to test the yolk’s firmness.
Timing really is key. If you enjoy a creamy yolk, stay close to the 8-minute mark!
Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, slightly thick-cut works best)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (optional, for brushing bread)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dried parsley or Italian seasoning, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast takes about 3 minutes for prep and 8-10 minutes for cooking, giving you a total of around 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is a quick step that ensures your toast cooks evenly right from the beginning.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your slices of bread and use a knife or a round cutter to carefully cut a hole in the center of each slice. Aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter. This will create a well to hold the egg.
3. Add Butter or Oil:
If you’d like, lightly brush the bread slices with butter or olive oil. This step helps the bread become crispy and golden, enhancing the flavor.
4. Layer the Cheese:
Sprinkle a thin layer of shredded cheese around the edges of each bread slice—just enough to create a cheesy crust while avoiding the hole in the middle.
5. Crack in the Eggs:
Gently crack an egg into the hole of each bread slice. Be careful not to break the yolk unless you prefer scrambled eggs!
6. Season the Eggs:
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the eggs and cheese. This adds flavor and enhances the dish!
7. Air Fry the Toast:
Carefully place the prepared bread slices into the air fryer basket. Make sure they lie flat and don’t overlap.
8. Cook to Perfection:
Set your air fryer to cook for 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them starting at the 8-minute mark if you like your yolks a bit runny.
9. Remove and Serve:
Once done, carefully take the egg and cheese toasts out of the air fryer. It might be hot, so use tongs or a spatula.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious creation with dried parsley or Italian seasoning for a beautiful finish. Serve warm and enjoy your crispy, cheesy, egg-filled toast!
This recipe yields a lovely breakfast or snack that you can whip up in no time, making it a perfect choice for any day of the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While slightly thick-cut bread works best, feel free to use sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure the bread can hold the egg without falling apart.
What If I Prefer Scrambled Eggs Instead?
No problem! If you like scrambled eggs, whisk the eggs in a bowl with some salt and pepper before pouring the mixture into the bread wells. Cook the same way, and just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bread with the cheese and cut-out hole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the eggs just before cooking to ensure freshness and the best texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, it’s best to warm them in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness instead of using a microwave.
