Ingredients:
- 4 slices thick-cut country white or sourdough bread
- 2 oz (55 g) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 oz (55 g) grated Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese
- 2 Tbsp (30 g) softened unsalted butter (or mayonnaise)
- A pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions:
- Grate both types of cheese and gently toss them together in a small bowl. Freshly grated cheese melts significantly better than pre-grated.
- Spread the softened butter (or mayonnaise) evenly right to the edges of the exterior side of each slice of bread (the side that will be facing out). Lightly sprinkle the buttered side with flaky sea salt.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out two slices of bread, butter-side down. Distribute the cheese mixture evenly between these two slices. Top with the remaining two slices, ensuring the buttered sides are facing out.
- Preheat (Recommended): If your air fryer allows, preheat to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
- Carefully place the assembled sandwiches into the air fryer basket or rack. Ensure they are not overlapping.
- Secure the Sandwich: Place a small, oven-safe weight (such as a metal skewer resting across the top, or a small ceramic ramekin) lightly on top of each sandwich to keep the top slice from lifting off due to the powerful fan circulation.
- Initial Cook: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. The exterior should be starting to turn golden brown.
- Flip and Finish: Carefully remove the weight, flip the sandwiches using a spatula, reapply the weight, and continue air frying for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the cheese is oozing slightly at the edges.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the toasties immediately and let them rest on a cutting board for 1 minute. This rest allows the cheese to set slightly. Slice diagonally and serve promptly.