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!

You will love this recipe for air-fried Mac-and-Cheese Grilled Cheese for several delicious reasons:

• Double Comfort Food: This sandwich combines two beloved comfort foods—macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese—into one indulgent creation. It’s the ultimate comfort food indulgence that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The macaroni and cheese filling is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. It adds a rich and gooey center to the incredibly satisfying sandwich.
• Crispy Exterior: Air frying the sandwich gives it a perfectly crispy and golden exterior without the need for excessive butter or oil. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while still delivering that desirable crunch.
• 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. It’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors while offering the familiar appeal of mac ‘n’ cheese and grilled cheese.
• 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. It’s a reminder of those classic, cheesy dishes that bring warmth and happiness.

In summary, this air-fried Mac-and-Cheese Grilled Cheese is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy perfection. It’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates the comforting embrace of comfort food classics in a single, irresistible package.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese

This recipe takes two comfort food classics, macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese, and elevates them to a new level of deliciousness. Prepare for a creamy, cheesy, and crispy masterpiece that is perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings.

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.

• Macaroni and Cheese: Use your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe or a pre-made version. The creamy, cheesy filling is the heart of this sandwich.
• Butter: Spread butter on the outside of each bread slice. It’s essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior when air frying.
• Bread: Choose two slices of bread for your sandwich. 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. This helps enhance the crispiness during air frying.
• Optional Ingredients: While not essential, add extra ingredients like bacon, sliced tomatoes, jalapeños, or caramelized onions for additional flavor and texture.

These simple ingredients combine to create a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly crisp Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese sandwich. It’s comfort food at its finest.

How To Make Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese

Making Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese is a breeze! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

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.

Recipe Variations

Here are some recipe variations and ideas to customize your Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese:

• Spicy Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Add a kick to your sandwich by mixing hot sauce or diced jalapeños into your macaroni and cheese before assembling the sandwich. Top it with pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy twist.
• Bacon Lover’s Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Crumble crispy bacon and sprinkle it on the macaroni and cheese filling. This adds a smoky and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy mac ‘n’ cheese.
• Tomato Basil Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Layer sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves between the macaroni and cheese for a refreshing and aromatic twist. Add mozzarella cheese for a caprese-inspired flavor.
• Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Combine your mac ‘n’ cheese with tender pulled pork for a hearty and satisfying sandwich. Top it with coleslaw for a Southern BBQ-inspired creation.
• Sausage and Peppers Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Cook Italian sausage and bell peppers, then mix them into your macaroni and cheese. This adds a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
• Truffle Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Drizzle truffle oil or add truffle salt to your mac ‘n’ cheese for an elegant and indulgent twist. Pair it with Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a gourmet touch.
• Veggie Lover’s Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Load your sandwich with sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, and caramelized onions for a vegetarian-friendly option. Incorporate a variety of vegetables for added crunch and flavor.
• Smoked Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Use smoked Gouda or cheddar in your macaroni and cheese to infuse a smoky flavor into the sandwich. Consider adding smoked ham or turkey for extra depth.
• Pizza Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Add pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, and shredded mozzarella cheese to your mac ‘n’ cheese for a pizza-inspired creation. It’s like having two comfort foods in one.
• Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese: Toss shredded buffalo chicken into your macaroni and cheese, then top it with blue cheese crumbles. It’s a spicy and tangy delight.

Mix and match these variations to create your unique Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese masterpiece. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the sandwich to your preferences and cravings. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients!

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips for making the perfect Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese:

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or Texas toast. These bread varieties hold well in the air fryer and provide a nice crunch.
• 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. This will help the bread become crispy and golden during cooking.
• Evenly Spread the Mac & Cheese: Spread the macaroni and cheese on the bread evenly. This ensures that every bite has a delicious balance of flavors.
• Add Extra Cheese: Consider adding a layer of shredded cheese on top of the mac and cheese. It will melt and create a cheesy crust on the outside of the sandwich.
• Use Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the exterior of the sandwich with cooking spray before air frying. This will give it an extra crispy texture.
• 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. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer’s wattage.
• Serve Hot: Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese is best hot and fresh. Serve it immediately for the ultimate cheesy experience.
• Experiment with Additions: Get creative with your grilled cheese by adding ingredients like bacon, jalapeños, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!

Faq’s

Can I use any mac and cheese for this recipe? Yes, you can use any mac and cheese, whether homemade or store-bought. Feel free to use your favorite mac and cheese recipe or a pre-made version.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for this recipe? Preheating the air fryer is recommended for even cooking. It helps ensure that the sandwich cooks evenly and crisps up nicely. Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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. Sturdier bread varieties work best for holding the mac and cheese filling.

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. Additionally, using a layer of shredded cheese on top of the mac and cheese can create a barrier to keep the bread crispy.

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. When you’re ready to make the sandwich, assemble it and air fry for a few minutes until it’s heated and crispy again.

What dipping sauces go well with Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese? Popular dipping sauces include ketchup, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a homemade aioli. Choose a dipping sauce that complements the flavors of your grilled cheese.

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. It’s a good practice to start with the recommended cooking time in your air fryer’s manual and adjust as needed. Keep an eye on the sandwich to prevent overcooking.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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• 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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