Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most delicious. The classic egg-in-a-hole gets a modern update in this recipe for Air Fryer Egg & Cheese Toast. This is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying breakfast or light meal that brings together a perfectly cooked egg, a nest of melted cheese, and a crispy piece of bread, all made effortlessly in your air fryer. It’s a comforting dish that feels like a classic, yet is ready in minutes, making it a perfect solution for a busy morning.
Why I love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of recipes that are both fun to make and delicious to eat, and this one has quickly become a favorite. What I love most about it is the perfect texture you get from the air fryer. The bread becomes wonderfully crispy and golden-brown, while the egg cooks to your exact preference—from a runny, gooey yolk to a firm, fully-cooked one. The shredded cheese melts into a delicious, savory nest around the egg, adding a rich flavor that makes this feel like a truly special breakfast. It’s a fantastic, single-serving meal that requires minimal cleanup and is ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of sandwich bread (white, brioche, or sourdough)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or blend)
- 1 tablespoon butter or mayonnaise (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Parchment paper (for lining)
Swaps and Notes
- Bread: A thick-cut, sturdy bread like sourdough or a good artisan loaf is a great choice. Thinner or softer bread may become soggy from the egg. You can also use a round sandwich roll or a bagel.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for a savory, sharp flavor, while mozzarella offers a stringy, gooey texture. Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
- Extras: The user’s notes mention adding toppings like chopped chives, cooked bacon bits, or a dash of hot sauce. This is a fantastic idea, as this recipe is a blank canvas for creativity. A sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning would also be a great addition.
- Crispy Edges: The optional butter or mayonnaise on the bread before frying is a great tip. It adds flavor and ensures the edges of the bread get wonderfully crispy and golden.
- Toast First: The user’s notes also suggest toasting the bread first for a crispier base. This is a great tip, especially if you’re using a softer bread. Toast it for about 1−2 minutes before adding the egg and cheese.
Instructions
- Prepare the Toast: Lightly spread butter or mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice (if using). Using a spoon, press down the center of the bread slightly to make a shallow well for the egg.
- Line the Air Fryer: Line your air fryer basket with a piece of parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze. Place the bread slices on the parchment paper.
- Add the Egg & Cheese: Carefully crack one egg into the center of each slice. Sprinkle about half of the shredded cheese around the egg, avoiding the yolk. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 2−3 minutes. Place the toast in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 6−9 minutes, depending on how you like your yolk cooked.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully lift the toast with a spatula and serve it immediately while it is still hot.
Tips for Success
- Watch Your Time: Cooking time will vary depending on your air fryer model and how well you like your yolk. Start checking the egg at the 6-minute mark. For a soft, runny yolk, 6-7 minutes is usually perfect. For a firmer yolk, aim for 8-9 minutes.
- Use Sturdy Bread: A sturdy bread is important to hold the egg and cheese without becoming soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: This recipe is designed for single servings. Cook one or two slices at a time to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Season with Care: Seasoning the egg and the final toast with salt and pepper ensures that every layer is perfectly seasoned.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This air fryer egg and cheese toast is a complete meal on its own. However, you can make it part of a bigger breakfast by serving it with a side of fresh fruit or some crispy bacon. A hot cup of coffee or tea would be the perfect accompaniment.
Nutritional Information
(Please note that this is an estimate and will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
This meal is a great source of protein from the eggs and cheese, as well as complex carbohydrates from the bread. While it is a satisfying breakfast, the calories and fat can be higher depending on the amount of butter and cheese used.
Storage and Leftover Tips
This dish is best served immediately, as the eggs and bread lose their texture upon cooling. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day, but the bread will likely be soggy, and the yolk will be fully cooked upon reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Egg & Cheese Toast is a fun and delicious way to start your day. It’s a simple recipe that yields a beautiful, comforting, and perfectly cooked result every time. I hope you enjoy this easy and satisfying breakfast. Let me know in the comments if you added any special toppings to yours!
Easy Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast: The Perfect Quick Breakfast
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut a hole in the center of each slice of bread.
- If using butter, spread a thin layer on both sides of the bread slices.
- Place the bread in the air fryer basket and crack an egg into each hole.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese around the egg and season with salt and pepper.
- Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until the egg is cooked to your liking and the cheese is melted.
- Carefully remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.
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