Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast

It's a weekend evening, and you're craving something warm, comforting, and quick, but also satisfying. Maybe you're unwinding after a long week, or just looking for a simple, delicious bite before settling in for a movie. Forget the fuss of a pan or a toaster oven; your air fryer is about to become your new best friend for this one.

Here’s how to whip up an amazing Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast that feels like a little hug in your hands:

What you'll need:

• Bread: Any kind works, really! White, whole wheat, sourdough – whatever makes your heart happy. Two slices per serving are ideal.

• Eggs: One per slice of bread.

• Cheese: Oh, the cheese! Sliced cheddar, Monterey Jack, a sprinkle of mozzarella, or even a fancy provolone. Go with your gut (and your fridge!).

• A little fat: Butter, a quick spray of olive oil, or even a tiny drizzle of your favorite cooking oil.

• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course. Maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes if you're feeling feisty!

• Optional good stuff: A dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of chives, a thin slice of ham or turkey (if you want to get fancy).

Let's get cooking!

1. Prep your bread: This is the clever part! Take each slice of bread and, using a spoon or your fingers, gently press down the center to create a little "well." You want to make a slight indentation, almost like a shallow bowl, without tearing through the bread. This little nest is where your egg will cozy up.

   • Pro Tip: If your bread is super soft, sometimes a gentle press with the back of a spoon works wonders.

2. Butter (or oil) it up: Lightly spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice, or give it a quick spritz of olive oil. This will help with that lovely golden crispness. You'll want to place the buttered side down in the air fryer.

3. Egg-cellent addition: Carefully crack one egg into the well you made in each slice of bread. Try your best to keep the yolk intact if you like a runny yolk, but don't fret if it breaks. Season with a little salt and pepper.

4. Cheese please! Now for the best part! Layer your cheese over the egg and the edges of the bread. Don't be shy! If you're using shredded cheese, sprinkle it generously.

5. Into the air fryer! Gently transfer your eggy, cheesy bread slices into your air fryer basket. Make sure they're not overlapping. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to do them in batches.

6. Air Fry magic: Close that basket and set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook for about 7-10 minutes.

   • Keep an eye on it! Air fryers can vary. Start checking around the 7-minute mark.

   • For a runny yolk: You'll want to stop when the whites are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden, but the yolk still has some jiggle.

   • For a firmer yolk: Give it a minute or two longer until the yolk is more solidified. The cheese will get even meltier and possibly a bit browned – delightful!

7. Serve and enjoy! Carefully remove your Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast. It will be hot and glorious! Let it cool for just a moment before diving in. A sprinkle of fresh chives or a dash of your favorite hot sauce would be perfection right now.

There you have it – a simple, unbelievably delicious, and incredibly satisfying Air Fryer Egg and Cheese Toast. It's the kind of comfort food that feels special, even though it took hardly any effort. Enjoy every warm, cheesy, eggy bite!