If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying breakfast that feels like a little celebration every time you take a bite, this Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine perfectly toasted thick-cut bread, crowned with a gently cooked egg nestled in a golden, cheesy ring of melty cheddar and mozzarella—comfort and flavor all in one bite, whipped up in just minutes thanks to your air fryer. It’s a simple, cozy start to your day or an anytime snack that feels special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this delightful Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe requires only a handful of everyday ingredients, each chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and color. From creamy mayonnaise to sturdy bread, each component elevates the final result into pure breakfast magic.
- Thick-cut bread slices: Opt for Texas toast or sourdough for sturdy support that holds your egg and cheese without sogginess.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are key for that bright, runny or firm yolk, depending on your preference.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp and tangy bite that melts beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings creamy meltiness and a mild flavor to balance the cheddar.
- Mayonnaise: A thin spread that adds moisture and helps create the egg’s cozy little nest.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the egg and cheese.
- Pepper: Provides a gentle peppery kick that livens up every bite.
- Optional toppings (sliced green onions or red pepper flakes): Add a pop of color and a burst of flavor for those who love a little extra zing.
How to Make Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the bread
Begin by spreading a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over each slice of thick-cut bread. This step might seem small but trust me, it adds a subtle richness and helps keep the bread delightfully moist under the egg. Using the back of a spoon, press gently into the center of each slice to create a shallow well—this little nest is where your egg will sit perfectly without spilling over.
Step 2: Add the egg
Carefully crack one egg into each shallow well you made. Take your time here to keep the yolk intact and nestled in its new home. Season each egg with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, enhancing the natural flavors and giving the egg a gentle seasoning that shines through after cooking.
Step 3: Sprinkle the cheese
Now comes the cheesy goodness. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese around the edges of each slice, keeping the cheese just away from the yolk to avoid overpowering it. The cheese will melt into golden, bubbly goodness that frames the egg perfectly once cooked.
Step 4: Air fry to perfection
Place your prepared bread slices carefully into the air fryer basket, making sure they sit flat and don’t overlap. Set your air fryer to 350°F and cook for about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it if you like runny yolks—8 minutes usually sets the whites while keeping the yolks soft. For firmer yolks, simply add an extra 1 to 2 minutes. Once done, the egg whites will be set, and the cheese will be melted and golden, ready to enjoy.
Step 5: Add final touches
After removing the toasts from the air fryer, top them with optional garnishes like sliced green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added pop of flavor and visual appeal. These little extras make your simple toast feel both fresh and exciting.
How to Serve Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like sliced green onions add a mild crunch and subtle onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy egg and melted cheese. If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes are perfect to add a gentle kick that wakes up each bite without overpowering the natural richness.
Side Dishes
This toast shines when served alongside fresh fruit like berries or citrus segments to cut the richness with brightness. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette also makes a great partner, bringing crisp textures and a refreshing note to round out your breakfast or brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe open-faced on a wooden board with small bowls of additional toppings like avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love a bit more excitement. Alternatively, pair the toasts stacked with crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier, restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store the toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can keep it for up to 2 days. Just note that the toast may lose some of its crispness when chilled.
Freezing
This recipe isn’t ideal for freezing because the egg texture changes and the bread may become soggy upon thawing. For best results, prepare the ingredients fresh and enjoy immediately after cooking.
Reheating
To bring leftover Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast back to life, reheat it in your air fryer at 320°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This will help revive the crispiness of the bread while gently warming the egg and cheese without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use regular sliced bread instead of thick-cut bread?
While you can use regular sliced bread, thick-cut bread like Texas toast or sourdough is recommended because it holds the egg and cheese better without becoming soggy or falling apart during cooking.
How do I make sure the egg yolk stays runny?
Keep the cooking time close to 8 minutes and check the egg whites for doneness before removing. If they are set and firm but the yolk still jiggles slightly, it should be perfectly runny inside.
Can I add other toppings or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon bits, sautéed vegetables, or swap in your favorite cheese. Just keep in mind that adding too many wet ingredients might affect cooking time and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, featuring eggs and cheese without any meat products.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I make this in a regular oven?
You can bake the toast in an oven at 350°F on a baking sheet until the egg is cooked and cheese is melted, but it may take slightly longer and won’t have quite the same crispy edge that the air fryer delivers.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe is a brilliant way to elevate your breakfast routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Its balance of textures and colors, combined with the ease of the air fryer, means you can enjoy a warm, cheesy, egg-filled breakfast in no time. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever started your day any other way!
Print
Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a quick and delicious breakfast with this Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast recipe. Thick-cut bread is transformed into a hearty meal topped with a perfectly cooked egg and a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Enhanced with a touch of mayonnaise for crispiness and optional toppings like green onions or red pepper flakes, this recipe is a convenient and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 slices thick-cut bread (Texas toast or sourdough recommended)
Egg and Cheese Topping
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Additional Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons mayonnaise
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise evenly over each slice of bread. Using the back of a spoon, gently press down the center of each slice to create a shallow well that will hold the egg securely.
- Add the eggs: Carefully crack one egg into the well of each bread slice, ensuring the yolk stays intact in the center.
- Season and add cheese: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the eggs to taste. Then, evenly distribute shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses around the edges of the bread, keeping cheese slightly away from the egg yolk to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry the toast: Place the prepared bread slices in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 8 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and garnish: Carefully remove the toasts from the air fryer. Add optional toppings such as sliced green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and color before serving.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on your preferred egg yolk consistency; add 1 to 2 minutes of air frying for a firmer yolk.
- Use sturdy bread like Texas toast or sourdough to prevent sogginess and hold the egg well.
- Mayonnaise on the bread not only adds flavor but helps achieve a crispier texture.
- This recipe is easily customizable with your favorite cheese or additional spices.
