Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese

Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese — Truth, I was standing in front of the window at my local Panera when I knew I had to make this recipe!

I mean, who doesn’t love mac and cheese and grilled cheese–so it’s the perfect combination! And it’s A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese is a grilled cheese sandwich with macaroni and cheese as the filling. You can make the macaroni and cheese from scratch or in a box. And this will soon be one of your family’s favorite sandwiches!

It’s so good!

And it’s so delicious! And, of course, you can prepare this air fryer sandwich with leftover Macaroni and Cheese! So, the next time you make some Mac & Cheese, make some extra, and surprise your family the next day!

It’s so good, you won’t believe it, and we even added some air fryer bacon for a real twist!

Oh, oh, so good!

I love a great Air Fryer Sandwich, and this one is no different. Some of my favorite sandwich recipes are AIR FRYER SAUSAGE, PEPPERS, AND ONIONS, AIR FRYER CRAB CAKE SANDWICHES, AIR FRYER SHRIMP PO’BOY, and AIR FRYER GARLIC BREAD PIZZA TOAST.

What is a Mac-and-Cheese Grilled Cheese?

A Mac-and-Cheese Grilled Cheese, also known as a Mac ‘n’ Cheese Grilled Cheese is a decadent and indulgent sandwich that combines two comfort food classics: macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Double Comfort Food: This sandwich combines two beloved comfort foods—macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese—into one indulgent creation.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The macaroni and cheese filling is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious.
• Crispy Exterior: Air frying the sandwich gives it a perfectly crispy and golden exterior without the need for excessive butter or oil.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is relatively quick and easy to make, making it a convenient choice for a comforting meal or snack.
• Customizable: You can customize your Mac-and-Cheese Grilled Cheese by adding extra ingredients like bacon, tomatoes, or jalapeños to suit your taste preferences and create a unique flavor profile.
• Kid-Friendly: Children and adults alike will adore this sandwich.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a comforting dinner, or a late-night snack, this sandwich fits the bill. It’s versatile and suitable for various occasions.
• Nostalgic: It brings back nostalgic memories of childhood favorites.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese

• Macaroni and Cheese: Use your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe or a pre-made version.
• Butter: Spread butter on the outside of each bread slice.
• Bread: Classic white bread works well, but you can experiment with different types, like sourdough or whole wheat, for added flavor.
• Cooking Spray (Optional): Consider using a cooking spray to lightly coat the sandwich’s outside.
• Optional Ingredients: While not essential, add extra ingredients like bacon, sliced tomatoes, jalapeños, or caramelized onions for additional flavor and texture.

How To Make Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese

In a small bowl– combine the cooled Macaroni and Cheese and bacon bits. Set aside. Spread the butter on both sides of the bread.

Place 1 ½ of the cheese slice on the bottom slice of bread. Add the Mac and Cheese with bacon bits on top. Cover the Mac N Cheese with the remaining 1 ½ cheese slices. Cover with the last bread slice.

Place in the air fryer.  I put a toothpick to keep the top bread from flying around.  Cook at 350 degrees F, with the air fryer setting for 4 minutes. Carefully flip it and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until nice and golden.

Ingredients Notes:

• Bread: Any denser bread, like sourdough, would work as well. Some great options are French Bread, baguettes, or even Artisan Bread. Remember, the macaroni and cheese is a heavy topping, so you need the bread to stay in place.
• Cheese: Some of the best cheeses are cheddar, mozzarella, or even Colby jack. If you wish to use sliced cheese, such as Kraft Sliced Cheese (Singles), that is fine, but you will find better results when you cut your cheese from a block as it will melt better than an already shredded cheese from the store. 
• Macaroni & Cheese: Any macaroni and cheese will work for this recipe, whether Kraft, Trader Joe’s, Store-Brand, or even the refrigerated batch at the local grocery store. The key is to let it become room temperature before adding it to the recipe. You can use your homemade Mac and Cheese, but I would ensure it is room temperature and not too saucy, as the sauce can make the bottom bread soggy.

Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Bread: Use sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or Texas toast.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking will help ensure even and consistent results.
• Butter Both Sides: Spread butter or margarine on the exterior of each bread slice.
• Evenly Spread the Mac & Cheese: Spread the macaroni and cheese on the bread evenly.
• Add Extra Cheese: Consider adding a layer of shredded cheese on top of the mac and cheese.
• Use Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the exterior of the sandwich with cooking spray before air frying.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flip the sandwich halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.
• Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on the sandwich as it cooks to prevent it from becoming too brown or burning.
• Serve Hot: Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese is best hot and fresh.
• Experiment with Additions: Get creative with your grilled cheese by adding ingredients like bacon, jalapeños, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.

Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese Recipe Faqs

Can I use any mac and cheese for this recipe? Yes, you can use any mac and cheese, whether homemade or store-bought.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for this recipe? Preheating the air fryer is recommended for even cooking.

Can I use different bread for this grilled cheese? Absolutely! Depending on your preference, you can use various types of bread, such as sourdough, ciabatta, whole wheat, or white bread.

Can I add extra toppings or ingredients to the sandwich? Yes, you can customize your Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese by adding extras like crispy bacon, sliced tomatoes, sautéed onions, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting too soggy? To prevent the sandwich from getting soggy, it’s important to evenly spread the mac and cheese on the bread and ensure it is buttered outside.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it later? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the mac and cheese in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What dipping sauces go well with Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese? Popular dipping sauces include ketchup, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a homemade aioli.

How do I adjust the cooking time for different air fryer models? Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage and model of your air fryer.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER HOT DOG TAQUITOS
• FROZEN CHICKEN PATTIES IN THE AIR FRYER
• AIR FRYER BLT WITH HARD-BOILED EGGS
• AIR FRYER HARDEE’S BIG HOT HAM ‘N’ CHEESE

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