Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of thick-cut bread (Sourdough, Texas Toast, or Brioche recommended)
  • 4 oz (115 g) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, sliced or freshly grated
  • 2 Tbsp (30 g) Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Dijon Mustard (optional, for tang)
  • Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bread: Lay the four slices of bread out on a cutting board. If using mustard, lightly spread half the slices (the inside layer).
  2. Cheese Layering: Place half the cheese evenly onto the mustard-coated slices. Top with the remaining cheese.
  3. Assemble the Sandwich: Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices. Gently press down to seal the layers.
  4. Butter the Exterior: Use the softened butter to generously coat the outside of both sides of each sandwich. Ensure the edges are covered. Season lightly with a pinch of sea salt, if desired.
  5. Preheat (Optional but Recommended): Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Load and Weight: Place the sandwiches into the air fryer basket (or on the tray), ensuring space around them. Place a small oven-safe weight (like a ramekin) gently atop the sandwich(es) to prevent the top slice from lifting off during cooking.
  7. First Cook Phase: Cook for 4 minutes at 360°F (180°C). Check for a light golden color.
  8. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula, remove the weight, and return them to the air fryer. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the exterior is deeply golden brown and the cheese is visibly molten.
  9. Rest: Remove the sandwiches immediately and let rest on a cutting board for 1 minute before slicing. This stabilizes the cheese and prevents molten lava spill.