Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast
Looking for a breakfast that’s quick, easy, and delicious enough to get you out of bed with a smile? Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is here to save your mornings. Crispy bread, gooey cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg—all made in under 10 minutes!
What is Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast?
It’s exactly what it sounds like—toast topped with cheese and an egg, cooked to golden perfection in your air fryer. No skillet, no mess, just amazing breakfast vibes.
Why It’s a Must-Try Breakfast Recipe
This recipe is a triple threat: fast, filling, and customizable. Whether you’re flying out the door or lounging on a Sunday morning, it delivers every single time.
Ingredients Overview
Core Ingredients
- 1 slice of thick-cut bread (like sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or cooking spray
Optional Add-Ins
- Cooked bacon bits or diced ham
- Spinach or tomato slices
- Herbs like chives or parsley
- Hot sauce or chili flakes
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Quick and Crispy
The air fryer gets your toast crisp without drying it out—and melts the cheese while gently cooking the egg. Win-win.
Healthier Than Traditional Frying
Less oil, fewer calories, and no greasy mess. Air frying keeps things light and efficient.
Best Bread for Egg and Cheese Toast
White Bread, Sourdough, or Multigrain?
Go for something sturdy! Soft white bread works, but sourdough or multigrain adds flavor and structure.
How to Prep the Bread
Press down the center of the bread with a spoon to make a “well” for the egg. This helps prevent it from sliding off.
Choosing the Right Cheese
Melty and Flavorful Options
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss are all melty, delicious choices. Use a mix for extra flair.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
Try vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast if you’re avoiding dairy.
Perfecting the Egg
Whole Egg vs. Scrambled
Both work! A whole egg gives you that glorious yolk moment. Scrambled makes it kid-friendly and less messy.
How to Keep the Egg from Sliding Off
Make a deep enough well in the bread and crack the egg slowly. You can even pour off a bit of egg white if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a “Well” in the Bread
Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the center of the bread down, leaving a raised edge.
Assembling the Toast
- Spray or butter the bread lightly.
- Add shredded cheese to the center.
- Crack an egg on top.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Air Fryer Cooking Time and Temp
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C)
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, depending on how runny you like your egg
- Keep an eye on it in the last 2 minutes
Topping Ideas to Take It Up a Notch
Meats (Bacon, Ham, Sausage)
Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham before the egg for a protein boost.
Veggies (Spinach, Tomato, Peppers)
Fresh or sautéed veggies add nutrition and flavor. Just don’t overload or it might get soggy.
Sauces (Sriracha, Hollandaise, Pesto)
A drizzle of your favorite sauce can turn breakfast into gourmet.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Can You Make These Ahead?
You can assemble ahead and store in the fridge. Just cook fresh in the air fryer when ready.
Best Reheating Method
Use the air fryer at 325°F for 3–4 minutes to keep the toast crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Per slice (without toppings):
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbs: 17g
Tips to Lighten It Up
- Use low-fat cheese
- Try egg whites
- Go light on butter or spray
Kid-Friendly Modifications
Mild Flavors for Picky Eaters
Stick to cheddar and a scrambled egg for simple goodness.
Fun Shapes and Cheese Smiles
Use cookie cutters to shape the toast and place cheese slices in fun patterns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooked Egg or Undercooked Bread
Keep your eye on it after 6 minutes and adjust depending on your air fryer model.
Soggy Bottoms
Avoid adding wet toppings or overloading with cheese.
Air Fryer Tips for Beginners
Preheating Matters
Preheat for 2–3 minutes for best results.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Give each toast space to crisp up. Cook in batches if needed.
Recipe Variations
Avocado Egg Toast
Spread mashed avocado before adding the egg for a creamy upgrade.
Breakfast Pizza Toast
Add a little marinara and sausage before the egg and top with mozzarella.
Sweet and Savory Twist
Use cinnamon raisin bread, a sprinkle of cheese, and a runny egg for a unique flavor combo.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast is your new breakfast bestie. It’s fast, flavorful, endlessly customizable, and perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and crunch in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use a toaster oven instead?
Yes, though it may take slightly longer to cook and the toast won’t be quite as crisp.
What temperature should I set the air fryer to?
350°F (175°C) is ideal for cooking the egg and melting the cheese without burning the bread.
How do I stop the egg from running off the toast?
Make a good “well” in the bread and crack the egg in gently. Use less egg white if needed.
Can I add meat to this?
Absolutely—just make sure it’s cooked beforehand.
How long does it take to cook?
About 6–8 minutes depending on your air fryer and how cooked you want your egg.