AIR FRYER GRILLED CHEESE

With a crisp, golden exterior and luscious, melted interior, air fryer grilled cheese takes the beloved sandwich to the next level. Using the air fryer also makes the process relatively easy, hands-off and neat. Moreover, you only need enough fat to apply a thin layer to the outside of the bread, rather than coating an entire skillet. Feel free to get creative with your cheese and other fillings, based on whatever you like or is in your fridge. This recipe doubles easily, as many midsize or larger air fryer baskets will comfortably hold at least two sandwiches. • 2 (1⁄2-inch-thick) slices bread, such as country/hearty white, sourdough or whole-grain

• 1 to 2 teaspoons sandwich spread, such as pepper jelly, mustard or chutney (optional)

• 2 to 3 ounces shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack or Gouda, preferably freshly grated (may substitute vegan shreds)

• 1⁄2 to 1 ounce filling of your choice, such as thinly sliced apple, ham, chopped kimchi or pickled jalapeños (optional)

• Mayonnaise, canola oil or softened butter, for spreading

Instructions: On the air fryer, select the air fry mode, set to 360 degrees and heat until the appliance signals it’s ready.

On one side of each slice of bread, apply a thin layer of your preferred sandwich spread, if using. Pile the cheese and filling, if using, on one of the slices of bread and cover with the other slice, spread side down. Apply a thin layer of the mayo, oil or butter on the outside of the top and bottom of the sandwich.

Transfer the sandwich to the air fryer basket and air fry for 8 minutes, or until both sides of the sandwich are crisp and golden, flipping halfway through.

Let the sandwich rest 1-2 minutes — the cheese will be very hot and melty — before slicing and serving.

Note: This recipe was tested in the Cosori 5.8-quart and Instant Vortex Plus 6-quart air fryers. Depending on the appliance you use, you may need to adjust the cooking time and/or temperature to achieve the desired results.