Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese Recipe

Cook Time: 7 minutes

Grilled Ham and Swiss Sandwiches in the Air Fryer

This deliciously crispy sandwich is made using the air fryer for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. The mayo adds a golden, crispy texture, while the Swiss cheese, deli ham, and pickles create a mouthwatering combination.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 8 slices white bread
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 8 slices deli ham
• 4 large slices Swiss cheese
• 8 dill pickle slices
• Cooking spray

Directions

Step 1: Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. Ensure the mayo is evenly distributed for a crispy, golden crust.

Step 2: Place 4 slices of bread mayo-side down. Lightly spread Dijon mustard on each slice, then evenly top with Swiss cheese slices, deli ham (folded to fit), and dill pickle slices.

Step 3: Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top of the sandwiches, mayo-side up, and lightly press down to close the sandwiches.

Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 380F (193C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 5: Arrange the sandwiches in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space around each sandwich. If necessary, cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 6: Cook the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they start to brown. Flip them over and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sandwiches are golden brown.

Step 7: Remove the sandwiches from the air fryer, slice them in half, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Cook's Note:

Mayonnaise is my preferred spread for grilled sandwiches. Its easy to use, adds a beautiful golden crispiness, and has no overpowering mayo taste. However, if you prefer, you can substitute butter. Keep in mind that air fryer cooking times may vary depending on the brand and size, so be sure to check your sandwiches as they near the end of the cooking process.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	362
Total Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	43mg
Sodium	1188mg
Total Carbohydrate	32g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	19g
Calcium	345mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	309mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The grilled ham and cheese sandwich is a beloved classic, offering the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and crispy goodness. But in recent years, air fryers have made this iconic comfort food even more convenient and flavorful. The Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese recipe takes this simple dish to the next level by delivering the same crispy exterior and melted cheese interior, but with the added ease of air frying.

Origin and History

Grilled cheese sandwiches date back to the 1920s, when sliced bread and cheese became affordable to the average American. The addition of ham to the traditional grilled cheese likely gained popularity during the mid-20th century, as meat-centric sandwiches became more common. While the grilled cheese sandwich has its roots in the United States, similar sandwiches have been enjoyed globally for centuries, often adapted to local tastes and ingredients. The introduction of the air fryer in the 2000s revolutionized cooking, bringing the classic grilled ham and cheese sandwich into the realm of modern kitchen convenience.

Regional Variations

Though the grilled ham and cheese sandwich is popular in the U.S., its variations can be found worldwide. In France, the croque-monsieura version of the grilled ham and cheeseis a staple, typically made with bchamel sauce and often topped with a fried egg. In Italy, the panini press has become the go-to method for creating a warm, pressed sandwich filled with ham, cheese, and sometimes other ingredients like tomatoes or olives. The air fryer adaptation offers a unique twist, allowing for a quick and hands-off preparation method that achieves a crispy, golden result without the need for flipping the sandwich manually in a pan.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While the air fryer grilled ham and cheese shares similarities with its traditional counterpart, there are key differences. The air fryer cooks the sandwich with hot air circulation rather than direct heat, allowing the sandwich to crisp up without excessive oil. This method also provides an even cook, melting the cheese inside while creating a crispy golden exterior without the need for butter or oilthough mayonnaise is often used to achieve a similar result. Additionally, the air fryer offers a faster cooking time compared to stovetop grilling, making it a quick and easy option for busy individuals.

Where It's Typically Served

The air fryer grilled ham and cheese sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a snack. It's commonly served at home as a comforting meal or paired with a side of soup for a classic combo. Some restaurants offer it on their menus, often as part of a children's menu or comfort food section. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatilitywhile it's often enjoyed as a casual meal, it can also be dressed up with gourmet ingredients, such as artisanal bread, aged cheeses, or fresh herbs, making it suitable for both casual dining and more refined occasions.

Fun Facts

• The use of mayonnaise in grilled sandwiches, instead of butter, has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to brown the bread perfectly without adding a distinct mayo flavor.
• The air fryer, a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food, has become a kitchen staple in many homes for its ability to create crispy foods with little to no oil.
• While the classic grilled cheese sandwich was originally made with just bread and cheese, variations like the grilled ham and cheese have become widespread, with additions ranging from tomatoes to pickles and even fried eggs.
• In 2020, the air fryer saw a significant increase in popularity due to its ability to produce crispy foods in a healthier, more convenient way. The grilled ham and cheese sandwich became a go-to recipe for air fryer enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Whether you're a fan of the classic grilled cheese or looking to try something new, the Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese is a delicious and efficient way to enjoy this timeless sandwich. With its crispy exterior, melted cheese, and savory ham, it remains a beloved comfort food for people of all ages. Thanks to the air fryer, this dish has become even more convenient and accessible, allowing anyone to recreate this classic sandwich at home with ease.

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