Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is a crispy, golden slice of bread topped with a perfectly cooked egg and melty cheese – a fast, hands-off breakfast or snack that blends crunch, creaminess, and protein for a satisfying start to the day.

Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast gives you the convenience of the air fryer with restaurant-style results in minutes. Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is ideal for busy mornings, quick brunches, or a comforting late-night bite.

What Makes This Recipe So Special

This version of Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast uses the air fryer to create crunchy edges and an evenly cooked egg without flipping – you get a runny or set yolk depending on the time you choose. It’s fast, fuss-free, and scales well when you want to make two or three slices at once. If you’re exploring air fryer recipes, this one is a brilliant entry: it marries technique and timing to produce a result that feels gourmet but requires almost no cleanup.

I originally learned this trick while testing quick breakfasts for a busy week. The first time I tried Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast, the cheese bubbled around the edges and the toast stayed crisp even after sitting for a few minutes – a small kitchen win that I still love.

Ingredients

2 slices sturdy bread (sourdough, country loaf, or whole wheat)
2 large eggs
2 slices cheddar or American cheese (or 1/2 cup shredded cheddar)
1 tablespoon butter, softened
Salt – 1/8 teaspoon, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper – pinch
Optional add-ins: chopped chives, a thin slice of ham, cooked bacon crumbles, sliced tomato, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Equipment

Air fryer (5.8-quart or similar size preferred)
Small round cookie cutter or ramekin (to trim a hole for the egg) – optional
Spatula or tongs
Small bowl and fork for beating eggs (if making scrambled-style)
Parchment paper or air fryer-safe liner – optional

Why This Recipe Works

The air fryer circulates hot air around the toast to create a crisp exterior while setting the egg gently without overcooking the bread. The key is balancing temperature and time so the cheese melts and the egg reaches your desired doneness. Using slightly thicker bread prevents sogginess and helps the toast hold the egg. Buttering the bread gives a golden finish and richer flavor.

I like to use a good melting cheese like American or cheddar for that silky stretch that makes each bite indulgent. If you prefer a lower-fat version, swap the butter for a light spray of oil.

Step-by-Step Method

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F – this is a quick preheat and not counted as Step 1.

Prepare the Bread

Trim and Butter: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. If you like, use a cookie cutter or a small ramekin to cut a 2-inch circle from the center of each slice to hold the egg. The removed round can be toasted alongside for a crunchy dipping piece.

Layer the Cheese

Add Cheese: Place a slice or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on the unbuttered side of each bread slice – this will sit under the egg for melty goodness.

Create the Egg Well (If Using)

Form the Well: If you didn’t cut a hole, press lightly in the center of the cheese- topped bread to create a shallow depression so the egg is less likely to run off.

Add the Eggs

Crack Carefully: Gently crack one egg into the well on each slice. If you prefer a firmer yolk, slightly beat the eggs and pour them in – they’ll set more uniformly.

Season and Top

Season: Salt and pepper each egg lightly. Place an extra thin slice of cheese over the top for cheesier coverage, or sprinkle shredded cheese.

Air Fry

Cook: Place the prepared slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 6-9 minutes depending on how runny you like the yolk – 6 minutes for soft yolks, 9 for nearly set. Rotate the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Finish and Serve

Rest and Serve: Remove carefully with a spatula, let rest 1 minute so the cheese settles, then serve warm with optional chives or hot sauce.

Tips and Troubleshooting

Use bread that’s at least 3/4-inch thick so it holds up under the egg and air flow. Thin sandwich bread can become too crisp.
If you find the bottom browns too quickly, lower the temperature to 325°F and extend the time by 1-2 minutes.
For a fluffier egg, beat the egg with a fork before adding to the well – this gives a soft-scrambled texture.
If the cheese browns too fast, cover loosely with a small piece of foil after the first 4 minutes.
Want more flavor? Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the butter before spreading.
Troubleshooting runny bread – if the egg seeps through, try adding a thin layer of cheese underneath and over the egg to act as a barrier.

Curious about heartier brunch ideas? Try this savory casserole for a crowd: Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the toast with a simple side salad of arugula and lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch.
Pair with roasted breakfast potatoes or fruit salad for a weekend brunch spread.
For a more indulgent plate, top with crispy bacon and sliced avocado.

Mid-article note: Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice.

More air fryer recipes? check here.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The toast will soften; re-crisp in the air fryer at 325°F for 3-4 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds if you’re in a rush.
Do not freeze assembled egg and cheese toast – the egg texture suffers when thawed. If you must, freeze plain toasted bread and assemble fresh eggs when ready.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 320-380 (depending on bread and cheese)
Protein: 16-20 g
Fat: 18-24 g
Carbohydrates: 24-28 g
Fiber: 2-4 g

These are estimates. Swap to lower-fat cheese or whole-grain bread to alter nutrition.

Safety Notes

Use an oven mitt or tongs when removing food from the air fryer – cookware and steam can burn.
Ensure eggs are cooked to desired doneness; if serving to older adults, pregnant people, or immunocompromised guests, consider cooking eggs until yolks are fully set.
Clean the air fryer basket after use to prevent smoke and lingering odors.

(Internal link #2) Want a sweet, quick appetizer to follow? Try these festive bites: Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a frozen slice of bread?
A: Yes – toast it briefly first or increase air fryer time by 1-2 minutes. This prevents the center from becoming soggy.

Q: Can I make multiple slices at once?
A: You can, but ensure slices are in a single layer with space between them for even air circulation.

Q: What if my cheese doesn’t melt fully?
A: Lower the rack or increase temperature to 360°F for the last minute – but watch closely to avoid over-browning.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes – use dairy-free cheese and a neutral oil or vegan butter to spread.

Final Notes and Variations

Regional twists: Add a slice of pepper jack and pico de gallo for a Southwestern version, or top with pesto and fresh mozzarella for an Italian spin. For a brunch board, make several mini toasts using small baguette slices and serve family-style. My personal favorite is adding a thin slice of ham under the egg for a quick croque-like treat.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is a small, mighty recipe that wins on speed, flavor, and ease – perfect for rushed mornings or lazy brunches. Try the technique, tweak the cheese and toppings, and you’ll have a go-to breakfast that’s both comforting and customizable.

If you enjoyed this method, I also found this handy guide for a similar twist on toast: Air Fryer Egg Toast. Please leave a comment and a star rating if you tried the recipe – what variations did you try? Let us know below, and don’t forget to share on Pinterest or Facebook so friends can make it too!