Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese with Tomato

If you’re a fan of quick and easy meals that pack a ton of flavor, then give air fryer grilled cheese sandwiches a try. I am obsessed with making crispy toasties in my air fryer. I love how it achieves that perfect crisp on the outside while melting the cheese on the inside.

But why stop there? May I recommend other delicious variations to explore? The Air Fryer Tomato Melt, with juicy slices of tomato nestled in with the cheese. Air fryer Grilled Caprese, featuring fresh mozzarella and basil. And if you like a heartier option, the Steak Melt is sure to satisfy with strips of steak and caramelized onions.

Trust me, once you try making grilled cheese in an air fryer, you’ll never go back to the greasy and messy stovetop method again.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 slices of bread or 1 muffin, English muffin or bagel
• A slice of ham (leftover cooked ham is perfect)
• Sliced tomato
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (or butter)
• Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, Provolone, or any other cheese of your choice)

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C)

Spread mayonnaise (or butter) on one side of each slice of bread. Please see the instructional image below.

Layer one slice of cheese on each unbuttered side. I used two types of cheese – Provolone and Sharp cheddar. Then place a slice of ham and tomato slices on top of the cheese. And close the sandwich. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

Place the sandwich in the preheated air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes at 375°F, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Be sure to flip the sandwich halfway on the other side.

Remove the sandwich from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute before serving.

The combination of savory ham, sweet roasted tomato, and melted cheese will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Tips and variations

What bread to use? While you might be tempted to reach for regular white bread, it’s not always the best choice for this particular dish. Instead, opt for a heartier bread like sourdough or whole wheat. They can hold up to the moisture from the ham and cheese without getting soggy or falling apart. These breads also offer a delicious, nutty flavor that complements the savory ham and oozy cheese to create the perfect sandwich.

Flip the sandwich halfway in the Air fryer. While many people know to flip their grilled cheese sandwich over in the pan, it’s just as important to do so in the air fryer as well. By turning it over, you allow for even cooking on both sides, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as the last. Plus, it helps to create that signature crunchy exterior that we all crave.

Add other ingredients like Roasted Peppers & Mushrooms, Air fryer Onions, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

Add some spice with Jalapeños or create a sweet and savory fusion with sliced apples and honey mustard.

Experiment with different types of cheese such as brie, pepper jack, or blue cheese to create your unique flavor combinations.

What to Serve with?

A simple tomato soup or a Roasted French Onion soup is a great addition, especially on a chilly day.

A side of chips or Air fryer pickles can add a crunchy texture to the sandwich and provide some acidity to balance out the richness of the cheese.

You can also try serving it with a fresh salad or a fruit platter for a lighter option.

Meal prep ahead of time

Assemble your sandwich by placing a slice of cheese on each side of the bread, followed by a few slices of ham and tomato. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or pop the sandwich into a reusable container to keep fresh until lunchtime. You can also freeze the sandwich. When ready to cook, just spread some mayo on the exterior of the bread and pop it in the preheated air fryer. Cook 1 to 2 minutes longer until cooked through with a crispy exterior.

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