Imagine sinking your teeth into golden-brown toast topped with a molten layer of runny egg yolk and gooey cheese—all ready in under 10 minutes.
This Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is the ultimate breakfast hack: crispy edges, tender center, and endless customizations for every craving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Speedy Morning Fix – From fridge to plate in about 8 minutes
Crispy Meets Creamy – Crunchy toast contrasts silky egg and melted cheese
Hands-Off Cooking – The air fryer does the work; just assemble and pop in
Protein-Packed – Eggs and cheese fuel you through busy mornings
Endless Variations – Mix in herbs, spices, or add-ins to suit your taste
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Thick-Sliced Bread – Sturdy base (sourdough, whole wheat, or brioche)
Large Eggs – Provide rich, runny centers when cooked just right
Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese
Butter or Olive Oil – For brushing toast and promoting golden crisp
Salt & Pepper – Simple seasoning that lets the egg shine
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale slices crisp up more evenly.
Toast First: Air-fry the bread alone for 2–3 minutes to firm it up.
Create a Well: Gently press the center of each slice to cradle the egg.
Room-Temp Eggs: Avoid cracking by letting eggs sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Watch the Time: Cook at 350°F to set whites without overcooking yolks—about 5 minutes after adding eggs.
How to Make Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly brush both sides of 2 slices thick bread with melted butter or olive oil.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Place bread in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air-fry for 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until just golden and slightly crisp. Remove.
Step 3: Form the Egg “Nests”
On each slice, use the back of a spoon to press a shallow well in the center—big enough to hold one egg but leaving a sturdy border.
Step 4: Add Egg & Cheese
Crack 1 large egg into each well. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Sprinkle ¼ cup shredded cheese evenly over and around the egg, covering the edges of the well.
Step 5: Air-Fry to Perfection
Return to the air fryer.
Cook at 350°F for 4–6 minutes, depending on yolk preference:
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Carefully remove toast with a spatula.
Top with chopped fresh herbs—chives, parsley, or cilantro—and an extra crack of black pepper.
What to Serve With Egg and Cheese Toast
Fresh Fruit Salad – Berries and melon for bright contrast
Avocado Slices – Creamy, buttery pairing with a sprinkle of chili flakes
Smoked Bacon or Ham – Adds savory depth and extra protein
Hot Coffee or Tea – A comforting beverage to round out your meal
Variations & Substitutions
Veggie Boost: Add diced tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or bell pepper under the egg.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the cheese.
Gourmet Twist: Swap cheddar for Gruyère or blue cheese crumbles.
Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free bread slices.
Vegan Option: Replace egg with tofu scramble and cheese with vegan shreds.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Best Fresh: Enjoy immediately—the toast loses crispness over time.
Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 325°F for 2–3 minutes to re-crisp.
Make-Ahead: Pre-toast bread and refrigerate in a sealed bag; assemble and air-fry in the morning.
FAQs
Can I cook more slices at once?
Yes—arrange in a single layer without overlap; you may need to increase cook time by 1–2 minutes.
Why did my egg spill out?
Ensure the well is deep enough and borders are thick; don’t overfill with cheese.
How do I get extra-crispy edges?
Brush more oil on the crust edges and toast an extra minute before adding egg.
My yolk is cooking too fast—help!
Lower temperature to 325°F and extend cook time slightly.
Is the cheese necessary?
It adds flavor and helps seal the egg; omit only if dietary restrictions require.
What’s the best bread type?
Day-old sourdough or country loaf holds up best; avoid thin sandwich bread.
Can I flip the toast partway?
No—once the egg is added, leave undisturbed for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is proof that simple ingredients can transform into a gourmet breakfast in minutes.
Crispy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become your morning go-to—whether you’re rushed or relaxed.
