The Underrated Method of Making Grilled Cheese That Changed Everything
The air fryer is the perfect appliance to cook up delicious side dishes and game-day snacks but there's one more comfort food it makes perfectly: Grilled cheese that's crispier, cleaner and somehow even better than the frying pan version.
I used to swear by cooking grilled cheese in a skillet but once I tried making the classic dish in the air fryer, there was no going back. It delivers that golden, crunchy exterior without drowning your bread in butter and it keeps your kitchen cooler-perfect for those hot summer days when firing up the stove sounds like a bad idea.
If you haven't made this switch yet, here's why your next grilled cheese should start in the air fryer.
If you're a purist, I salute you, too. The old school method for making grilled cheese is just fine but it's not without flaws. Pan-fried grilled cheeses also tend to fall apart or stick to the pan if they're not cooked and flipped properly and if you don't have the heat up high enough, you'll never get that coveted crunch.
If you don't own an air fryer, I recommend Ninja's new glass-bowl model. It's the best we've tested and makes a mean grilled cheese. Below you'll find tips for making the best air fryer grilled cheese of your life.
Why the air fryer is a perfect appliance to make grilled cheese
As you can plainly see, the air fryer grilled cheese leaves little mess to contend with after preparing.
Pamela Vachon/CNET
An air fryer is basically a small convection oven with nonstick surfaces, circulating hot air around whatever you put in its basket. Unlike your saute pan or skillet, it cooks from all directions at once and typically in less time. Unlike your oven, it is compact and efficient, heats up quickly and may not even require preheating.
Your toaster oven could never do this. While toasted cheese is a possibility (and reheated toaster oven pizza is a revelation), grilled cheese is not. Your toaster oven is not designed to support fat on the underside of whatever you're cooking and you'll end up with a mess too complicated to clean.
For your grilled cheese, the air fryer is working on both of the bread surfaces and the cheese all at once, resulting in a quicker melt, which adheres the cheese to the bread slices together making for a much easier flip. (Flipping is still recommended but with far less drama.)
The air circulation provides deep crunchiness, not only to the surfaces that received the butter or mayo treatment but to the entire crust. Any inclusions beyond cheese in the interior of the sandwich are also transforming because of the ambient heat. Simply placing a lid on your saute pan or skillet can't achieve the same results, as the components will become steamed and potentially soggy.
Here's how I make air fryer grilled cheese
Humble ingredients are transformed into something great inside an air fryer.
Pamela Vachon/CNET
Assemble a grilled cheese as you would otherwise
Sliced bread
Sliced or shredded cheese (I like American cheese for a basic grilled cheese and a combo of gruyere and cheddar for an upgrade.)
Butter or mayonnaise for the outside of the bread slices (dealer's choice)
For a basic grilled cheese, you can assemble the sandwich in the basket of your air fryer: bread with buttered side down, followed by sliced or shredded cheese, then topped with the final slice with buttered side up.
Be it a simple sandwich or a fancier combination of cheese, bread and fixings, the air fryer makes a crispy, gooey grilled cheese in minutes.
Pamela Vachon/CNET
Set the heat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 3 to 6 minutes on each side, flipping halfway through. The already melted cheese will keep your sandwich nicely together during the flip. You can get a lightly golden grilled cheese in less time but I recommend hanging on for 5 to 6 minutes for a deeply crunchy sandwich.
Another perk of the air fryer is that you can more easily peek to see where you are without adversely affecting the outcome.
The air fryer is best for making fancy grilled cheese
Add a fruit element and cured meats for a fancier air fryer sammy.
Pamela Vachon/CNET
This is where the air fryer really shines in the grilled cheese realm. Every element of an upgraded grilled cheese adds a degree of difficulty when trying to cook in a skillet, much of which is mitigated in the safe confines of an air fryer. Thicker bread. Thicker cheese, like hunks of camembert or brie.
And think of all the great grilled cheese ingredients that can be slippery: apple slices, roasted red peppers, tomatoes, pickles, etc. Any grilled cheese with more than two components can be challenging to flip gracefully in a skillet, even for trained cooks.
Bag a loaf of good bread and stuff your sandwich with upmarket cheese.
Pamela Vachon/CNET
To prove a point, I assembled a fancy grilled cheese with camembert, prosciutto and apple slices. (Plus mayonnaise on the exterior, because I was being fancy, and mayo gives your sandwich a little extra tang.) Because of its height, I assembled it fully outside of the air fryer and then carefully placed it in the drawer.
Et voila!
Pamela Vachon/CNET
After 6 minutes of air fryer cooking, the flip was seamless and the sophisticated outcome belies the fact that you spent all of one minute assembling the masterpiece. The exterior of the ham even got a little bonus crisping. So the air fryer invites you to go to town with whatever you can dream up for your grilled cheese: cured or cooked ground meats, grilled veggies, various sauces and relishes -- you name it. An epic grilled cheese variation is limited only by the confines of your imagination.
Do I need to preheat an air fryer for grilled cheese?
A grilled cheese is a quick-cooking sandwich no matter how you do it so you don't want to add on minutes of additional time for something that only takes minutes to accomplish. That said, while preheating your air fryer may be a waste of time for certain preparations, I think putting it on for just a minute to heat up the nonstick surface that the sandwich sits on is worthwhile to get that golden crust working right away.
Are there drawbacks to making air fryer grilled cheese?
Depending on your model and size of air fryer, and the shape of bread you choose, it can be tricky to make more than two sandwiches at once, so it might not be the most family-friendly method for making grilled cheese. But for a solo meal or date night, your air fryer is the grilled cheese hack you didn't know you needed.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
If You Do These Things In A Relationship, You're a Love-Bomber
In the nuanced dance of modern romance, identifying the line between genuine affection and over-the-top adoration can be a bit like differentiating between a light drizzle and a monsoon. That line is often blurred by the phenomenon known as love-bombing—a strategy of excessive flattery and attention meant to manipulate or control. While being swept off your feet can be thrilling, there's a point where it becomes suffocating rather than sweet. Here are 13 behaviors that could mark you as a love-bomber—acknowledging them is the first step in ensuring your love story is truly authentic. Compliments are wonderful; they're the little nudges that make someone's day a bit brighter. But if your partner feels like they are being bombarded with unwarranted adoration, it might be time to take a step back. According to Dr. Frank D. Fincham, a leading relationship psychologist, over-praise can sometimes serve as a tool for manipulation, creating an emotional dependency. Compliments should be genuine and proportionate to the situation, lest they start to feel like currency in a less-than-equitable transaction. The intent behind a compliment is as important as the words themselves. If you're repeatedly telling your partner they're perfect, infallible, or singularly ideal, it could start to sound like a sales pitch. No one is perfect, and pretending otherwise can set unrealistic expectations that leave little room for genuine growth or intimacy. Instead, focus on the little things you genuinely appreciate; it's authenticity, not sheer volume, that forges a deeper connection. Gifts can be a delightful way to show appreciation, but their excess can quickly shift from delightful to daunting. The issue isn't the gift itself but rather the underlying message it conveys. When gifts become a tool to buy affection or ensure compliance, it shifts the relationship dynamics significantly. It's essential to differentiate between generosity and manipulation masked as generosity. The problem with extravagant gifts is that they create an unspoken contract. Your partner might begin to feel indebted, as though they owe you something in return for your lavish displays. It can create a power imbalance, where one party feels beholden to the other. Healthy relationships thrive on balance and mutual respect, not debt and obligation. Texting throughout the day can be a sweet, modern expression of love, but there's a fine line between staying connected and being overbearing. If you're finding yourself compulsively checking your partner's status updates or bombarding them with messages, pause and reflect. According to a study by Dr. John Cacioppo, excessive communication can lead to feelings of entrapment, especially if one partner feels overwhelmed by the constant attention. Balance is key, allowing space for both partners to breathe and reflect independently. In the age of instant communication, it's easy to fall into the trap of wanting constant updates. But, in doing so, you might inadvertently smother your partner, leaving them feeling like they're under surveillance. The need for constant communication can indicate insecurity or a lack of trust. Building a healthy relationship involves trusting each other enough to allow for personal space and separate experiences. Seeing your partner through rose-colored glasses is perfectly natural at the beginning of a relationship. However, if you find yourself consistently placing them on a pedestal, you might be venturing into idealization territory. This is problematic because it sets unrealistic expectations that no one can live up to indefinitely. When the inevitable human flaws emerge, it can lead to unnecessary disappointment and conflict. A healthy relationship acknowledges that everyone has strengths and weaknesses. The danger of idealizing a person is that it ignores their humanity, reducing them to an object of your affection rather than a partner in life. This behavior can hinder genuine connection, as it prevents a deeper understanding of who your partner truly is. Embrace the full picture, imperfections and all, for a relationship grounded in reality. In the whirlwind of new romance, it's tempting to dive headfirst into commitment. But moving too quickly can signal love-bombing, as it often involves establishing an intense connection before either party is ready. Dr. Terri Orbuch, a notable relationship expert, emphasizes that taking time to build a foundation is crucial for long-term success. Rushing through relationship milestones can lead to instability and unmet expectations. In the rush of emotions, it can be easy to overlook the importance of pacing. Relationships, like fine wine, require time to mature and develop complexity. When milestones are forced or accelerated, it denies both partners the opportunity to fully appreciate and understand each other. True intimacy is built over time, with patience being a critical component of a sustainable relationship. While everyone has insecurities, constantly seeking reassurance can border on dependency. If you're frequently asking your partner how they feel about you or needing confirmation of their love, it may point to deeper insecurities. This behavior can become exhausting for your partner, creating an unsustainable emotional dynamic. It's important to cultivate self-confidence and trust within the relationship framework. Reassurance should be a comforting aspect of your relationship, not something that must be constantly validated. If your need for affirmation is overwhelming, it might be time to explore why that is. This doesn't mean you shouldn't express your feelings or seek comfort from your partner, but balance is vital. A healthy relationship thrives on mutual support, where both partners feel secure in their self-worth and the bond they share. Grand gestures can be the stuff of fairy tales, but in the real world, they can often mask underlying issues. Over-the-top displays of affection can sometimes be more about the person giving them than the person receiving them. According to Dr. Helen Fisher, an anthropologist who studies human relationships, such gestures can create an illusion of intimacy without the substance to support it. It's the small, consistent acts of love that truly nurture a relationship over time. The problem with grand gestures is that they can create pressure and expectations. Your partner might feel obligated to reciprocate, even if they're not comfortable with such demonstrations. Relationships aren't measured by the scale of romantic acts but by their authenticity and the mutual respect shared. Genuine affection is often quiet, subtle, and deeply personal, rather than being an event for public consumption. While it's natural to want to spend quality time together, isolating your partner from their social circle is a red flag. Love-bombers often use this tactic to control and dominate the relationship by cutting off external influences. It's essential that both partners maintain their friendships and family connections, as these relationships provide support and perspective. Independence is a key ingredient in a healthy relationship, allowing both partners to thrive separately and together. Isolation can lead to a dependency that is neither healthy nor sustainable. It might initially feel like a testament to your closeness, but it often results in a loss of personal identity and support systems. Encourage your partner to nurture their friendships and interests outside the relationship. A well-rounded personal life contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling partnership. No one likes to be criticized, but a love-bomber might react with disproportionate emotion to even the mildest critique. This defensiveness can create an environment where open communication is stifled, as one partner walks on eggshells to avoid conflict. It's crucial for both partners to feel comfortable expressing concerns without fear of overreaction. Constructive criticism is part of any relationship's growth process. If your partner is hesitant to express themselves, it can lead to unresolved issues and pent-up frustration. Open dialogue and honest feedback are essential for navigating the complexities of a relationship. Overreaction to criticism might indicate an underlying insecurity or fear of rejection. Building a resilient relationship requires empathy, understanding, and a willingness to work through challenges together. Guilt-tripping is a manipulative tactic that undermines the foundation of trust in a relationship. If you find yourself using phrases like 'if you really loved me, you would…' it's time to reassess your approach. Manipulating someone's emotions to get your way can lead to resentment over time. Relationships should be built on mutual respect and understanding, not coercion and guilt. Weaponizing guilt can cause significant emotional damage, leaving your partner feeling trapped or inadequate. A healthy relationship encourages open communication and respect for each other's boundaries. Instead of resorting to guilt, engage in honest discussions about your needs and desires. Remember, love thrives in an environment where both partners feel valued and respected. Possessiveness is often mistaken for passion, but it can quickly become a destructive force within a relationship. If you find yourself feeling threatened by your partner's interactions with others, it might be time to reflect on your insecurities. Trust is a cornerstone of any lasting relationship, and without it, possessiveness can spiral into control. It's important to recognize the difference between affection and ownership. A possessive nature can stifle your partner's independence, leading to feelings of suffocation. It's essential to cultivate a sense of security within yourself to foster a healthy relationship dynamic. Encourage your partner to pursue their interests and friendships. By supporting their independence, you strengthen the trust and bond between you, ensuring a more balanced relationship. Urgency in a relationship can be thrilling, but it shouldn't dictate the pace or intensity of your connection. If you're constantly pushing for commitment or rushing through milestones, it could be a sign of love-bombing. True intimacy develops over time, with patience and understanding. A relationship driven by urgency often lacks the depth needed for longevity. Creating a sense of urgency can pressure your partner into decisions they're not ready for. This behavior often stems from insecurity or fear of losing control. Instead of rushing, focus on building a solid foundation based on trust and mutual respect. A relationship built on patience is more likely to withstand the test of time. Respecting boundaries is fundamental to any healthy relationship, yet love-bombers often disregard them to maintain control. If you find yourself consistently overstepping your partner's limits, it's a sign to reevaluate your behavior. Boundaries are essential for maintaining individuality and personal space within a relationship. Disregarding them can lead to resentment and a breakdown in communication. Ignoring boundaries reveals a lack of respect for your partner's autonomy. It's crucial to acknowledge and honor your partner's needs and limits. Healthy relationships are built on a foundation of understanding and mutual respect. By respecting boundaries, you create a safe space for both partners to thrive and grow together.
Fox News
2 hours ago
- Fox News
McDonald's prices from 1991 ignite discussion among nostalgic millennials: 'It tasted better, too'
Print Close By Andrea Margolis Published June 30, 2025 A group of millennials recently took to Reddit to reminisce about how cheap fast food used to be, as well as lament how much the price has risen since their childhoods. On a popular subreddit filled with 800,000 users born between 1981 and 1996, a recent post focused on the price of food in 1991. A user shared a graphic stating that a McDonald's feast once cost only $12, including 99 cents for medium fries, 79 cents for a cheeseburger and $1.85 for a Big Mac. FAST-FOOD MENU ITEMS THAT CHEFS LIKE TO EAT The graphic showed that a Filet-o-Fish cost just $1.29 in 1991 and a medium drink went for 89 cents. The post was upvoted by over 5,200 users and attracted over 400 commenters with varied reactions. Many of the Redditors said they fondly remembered the old prices and the quality of the food. "Anyone remember the 29-cent hamburgers and 39-cent cheeseburgers?" one person asked. MCDONALD'S CHEF REVEALS WHY COFFEE FROM FAST-FOOD GIANT TASTES SO GOOD "This is my childhood," another Redditor responded. "Two quarters for a cheeseburger and change." "And it tasted better, too," a third person said. Users also mourned the McDonald's dollar menu, which has dwindled in size since 1991. "I feel like the sweet spot for McDonald's was 2008. The dollar menu was insane," one person said. MCDONALD'S IS MOST POPULAR FAST-FOOD RESTAURANT BY GOOGLE SEARCHES, SAYS STUDY "Today in California, the McChicken is a little over $4," a Golden State resident chimed in. Others were skeptical of the graphic's claims, thinking that current prices were reasonable when taking inflation into account. The graphic does contradict the Big Mac Index, which holds that the average cost of a Big Mac with tax was $2.25. "McChicken was $1 in [the] early 2000s, how is it more expensive in 1991?" one person said. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER "These prices don't look right to me," a former employee observed. "I worked at McDonald's in 2005 and some of this food was cheaper in 2005 than it was in 1991??" "Twelve dollars was not cheap in 1991," another user argued. One person on Reddit took matters into his or her own hands and recreated the order while factoring in all the coupons and deals that the McDonald's app offers. The user found that the deals made prices pretty similar to what they were in the early '90s. For more Lifestyle articles, visit "I used the app and recreated this order … [The] cost is $26.26 after all deals and taxes," the user said. The commenter added, "According to a U.S. Inflation calculator I googled, $12.07 in '91 would be about $28.49 today. Seems pretty on point, but I would guess the cost is made up in quality and/or quantity." McDonald's, headquartered in Chicago, told Fox News Digital in a statement that great value "has always been part of McDonald's DNA, and that commitment remains strong today." CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "The company and our franchisees, who own and operate over 95% of U.S. restaurants, work hard to keep everyday prices affordable for our customers," the company said. "And with our McValue offerings like the popular Meal Deal bundle, Buy One Add One for $1, and countless other local and digital deals … it's never been easier to get more for less when you visit McDonald's." Print Close URL
Washington Post
2 hours ago
- Washington Post
A D.C. school's first graduation is a mix of excitement and mourning
The auditorium chairs were filling up. Mothers and fathers, uncles and cousins anxiously waited. It was graduation day — the first of Digital Pioneers Academy's seven-year history. From humble beginnings at a church in D.C. to two campuses and more than 680 students, the moment the senior class had been working toward was finally here.
