Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese

Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese– Calling All Cheese Lovers! Ditch the Pan, Embrace the Flavor! Move over, stovetop grilled cheese! There’s a new sheriff in town, and it’s bringing flawless melty cheese, perfectly caramelized onions, and irresistible crunch, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer!

Today, I used all of the classic ingredients for French Onion Soup, which is my son’s absolute favorite, and came up with this; so easy to make after I fried up some onions, added some shredded Gruyere Cheese, and topped it all off with butter (yes you can use mayonnaise too)

What Is A French Onion Grilled Cheese

A French Onion Grilled Cheese is a gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich inspired by the rich flavors of French onion soup. This decadent sandwich combines the sweet, caramelized onions typical of the soup with gooey, melted cheese sandwiched between buttery, toasted bread slices. Often, various cheeses such as Gruyère, Swiss, or provolone mimic the traditional cheese topping of French onion soup, providing a stretchy, flavorful melt that perfectly complements the onions.

The key to the sandwich’s deep flavor profile is the caramelized onions, which are slowly cooked until they’re golden brown and sweet, bringing a savory complexity that’s reminiscent of the beloved soup. Some sandwich variations may include a splash of beef broth during the onion cooking process for added umami depth or a sprinkle of fresh thyme or other herbs for a touch of freshness.

Served as a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, the French Onion Grilled Cheese is a satisfying meal that elevates the simple grilled cheese into something extraordinary. It’s a perfect choice for those who love the flavors of French onion soup but crave the convenience and comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Cheese and Onion Toastie Recipe

• Effortless Gourmet: This recipe elevates the humble grilled cheese to a gourmet level with the rich, savory flavor of caramelized onions, all with minimal effort.
• Quick and Convenient: Utilizing the air fryer speeds up the cooking process compared to traditional methods and offers convenience.
• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer produces a perfectly crispy exterior on the bread while ensuring the cheese inside melts beautifully.
• Flavorful Depth: The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that’s both sweet and savory, reminiscent of French onion soup.
• Cheesy Goodness: The choice of cheese, like Gruyère or Swiss, melts into an ooey-gooey layer that pairs perfectly with the onions, providing a stretchy, cheese-pull moment with every bite.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe is delicious as is, it’s also versatile.
• Comfort Food Elevated: This Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese combines the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich with the elevated flavors of a classic French onion soup, making it a comforting yet sophisticated meal.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a unique dish to serve guests, this recipe fits the bill.
• Cleanup is a Breeze: Cooking with an air fryer means less mess and easier cleanup compared to using a skillet or oven.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Butter: Essential for frying the onions to a perfect caramelization.
• Onions: Slowly cooked until they are deeply caramelized, bringing a sweet and savory complexity that mimics the beloved flavor of French onion soup.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a subtle, aromatic earthiness to the onions
• Beef Broth: A splash of beef broth deglazes the pan and infuses the onions with a rich, umami flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Elevate the natural sweetness of the onions and balance the flavors of the sandwich.
• Bread: Thick slices of bread, such as sourdough or artisanal white, provide the sturdy base.
• Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss cheese are traditional choices that melt beautifully and offer a nutty, savory flavor that complements the caramelized onions.

How To Make Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese

Here’s how to make it:

Start by spreading the butter on the bread and then place it down onto the air fryer basket. Top with the fried onions and sprinkle some Gruyere cheese on top.

Butter the top of the bread, and then place it on the sandwich. Set the temperature to 360 degrees F for 3-5 minutes. Then flip the sandwich and air fry for another 3-5 minutes, until the sandwich is toasted on both sides.

Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese Recipe Tips

• Low and Slow Onions: The key to deep, sweet, and savory caramelized onions is patience. Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally.
• Cheese Matters: Use a good melting cheese like Gruyère, Swiss, or provolone for that perfect gooey texture.
• Butter is Better: Butter the outside of your bread generously. This not only prevents the bread from drying out in the air fryer but also contributes to a golden, crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook sandwiches in a single layer without touching.
• Flip for Evenness: Halfway through cooking, flip your sandwich to ensure both sides get evenly crispy and golden.
• Watch Closely: Cooking times can vary depending on your air fryer model and how thick your sandwiches are.
• Rest Before Cutting: Let the sandwich sit for a minute or two after cooking.
• Season the Onions: A little salt goes a long way in bringing out the natural sweetness of the onions.
• Use Thick Bread: Opt for thick slices of bread like sourdough or artisan to support the weight of the onions and cheese without collapsing.
• Layer Wisely: Begin and end with cheese on both slices of bread touching the bread.
• Serve Immediately: Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese is best enjoyed fresh. The combination of crispy bread, melty cheese, and warm onions makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Air Fryer French Onion Grilled Cheese Recipe Faq’s

What is the best cheese to use for French Onion Grilled Cheese? Gruyère is traditionally used for its excellent melting qualities and nutty flavor, closely mimicking the taste of French onion soup. Swiss, provolone, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can also work well, offering gooey melt and depth of flavor.

Can I use store-bought caramelized onions? Yes, you can use store-bought caramelized onions to save time. However, homemade caramelized onions might provide a richer flavor as you can control the seasoning and level of caramelization.

What type of bread is best for making French Onion Grilled Cheese? Thick-cut bread like sourdough or artisanal loaves are ideal because they offer a sturdy base that can hold the weight of the cheese and onions without becoming too soggy.

How can I prevent my sandwich from being too oily? To prevent your sandwich from being too oily, use just enough butter to lightly coat the outside of the bread. Choosing a cheese that’s not overly greasy when melted, like Gruyère or Swiss, can also help.

Can I make French Onion Grilled Cheese in a skillet instead of an air fryer? Yes, you can make it in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted, covering the skillet with a lid if necessary to help the cheese melt without burning the bread.

How do I keep my sandwich from falling apart when flipping it in the air fryer? Use a spatula to securely hold the sandwich together when flipping. If the filling is particularly bulky, consider using toothpicks to hold the sandwich together during cooking, but remember to remove them before eating.

Can I add meat to my French Onion Grilled Cheese? Absolutely. Thin slices of roast beef or cooked bacon can complement the flavors well, adding a savory depth to the sandwich.

Is it necessary to use beef broth in the caramelized onions? While not strictly necessary, a splash of beef broth can add a depth of flavor reminiscent of French onion soup. You can omit it or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover sandwiches in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to restore the bread’s crispiness.

Can French Onion Grilled Cheese be made gluten-free? Yes, by using gluten-free bread and ensuring that all other ingredients, including the broth and cheese, are gluten-free, you can easily adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet.

Equipment Used

• INSTANT VORTEX PLUS AIR FRYER 6 IN 1, BEST FRIES EVER, DEHYDRATOR, 6 QT, 1500W

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