Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This indulgent grilled cheese transforms leftover mac and cheese into a crispy, melty sandwich with added bacon bits for extra flavor. The air fryer creates perfectly golden, crunchy bread while keeping the cheese filling gooey. It's an ideal comfort food lunch or quick dinner that combines two beloved classics into one satisfying meal. The combination of American cheese and creamy mac and cheese creates an ultra-cheesy experience that's perfect for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
- ½ cup mac and cheese, cold
- 1 tablespoon bacon bitscooked ham or turkey1:1
Provides similar protein and saltiness
- 2 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 2 slices bread
- 3 slices American cheese
Instructions
- 1
Combine the cooled mac and cheese with bacon bits in a small bowl and set aside
- 2
Spread butter on both sides of both bread slices
- 3
Place one and a half cheese slices on the bottom slice of bread
- 4
Add the mac and cheese mixture with bacon bits on top
- 5
Cover with the remaining one and a half cheese slices
- 6
Top with the second bread slice
- 7
Place in the air fryer and insert a toothpick to keep the top bread from flying around
- 8
Cook at 350 degrees F for 4 minutes
- 9
Carefully flip and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until golden
- 10
Plate and serve immediately
Tips
Use cold mac and cheese to prevent it from becoming too messy during assembly
Insert a toothpick through the sandwich to prevent the top bread from flying off in the air fryer
Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking to allow the cheese to set slightly before cutting
Good to Know
Best served immediately while hot and crispy. Can be stored wrapped in refrigerator for 2 days and reheated in air fryer.
Mac and cheese mixture can be prepared up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated.
Serve immediately while hot with crispy exterior and melted cheese interior.
Common Mistakes
Use cold mac and cheese to avoid a soggy sandwich
Don't skip the toothpick or the bread may fly off in the air fryer
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
Provides similar protein and saltiness
FAQ
Can I use homemade mac and cheese instead of leftover?
Yes, just make sure it's completely cooled before assembling the sandwich to prevent sogginess and easier handling.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can make this in a regular skillet over medium heat, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
The assembled sandwich is best eaten immediately, but leftovers can be stored for 2 days and reheated in the air fryer.