Air Fryer Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Introduction:

This mashup of two comfort food icons — pizza and grilled cheese — is everything you want in a snack, lunch, or quick dinner. With the air fryer, you get a perfectly golden crust, gooey melted cheese, and savory pizza flavor without needing a pan or oven. Crispy outside, cheesy inside, and bursting with pepperoni, sauce, and herbs!

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Sandwich Ingredients:

4 slices white or sourdough bread

2 tbsp butter (softened) or mayonnaise (for spreading)

4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese

2 tbsp pizza sauce or marinara

6–8 slices pepperoni (or cooked mushrooms, olives, etc.)

1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)

½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano

Instructions

Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread butter or mayo on one side of each bread slice.

On the unbuttered side, layer in this order:

Slice of cheese

Spoon of pizza sauce

Pepperoni or toppings of choice

Another slice of cheese

Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat to 190°C (375°F) for 3–5 minutes for even toasting.

Cook the Sandwiches

Place sandwiches in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd; cook in batches if needed.

Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Check for golden brown crust and fully melted cheese inside.

Serve

Let rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing.

Serve with extra warm pizza sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips & Variations:

Add-ins: Try sautéed mushrooms, sliced olives, jalapeños, or cooked sausage.

Cheese boost: Mix mozzarella with shredded cheddar for a sharper flavor.

Crispier finish: Sprinkle a bit of parmesan on the outer buttered side for an extra crispy crust.

Kid-friendly: Use mini pepperoni or skip spicy seasonings.

Nutrition (Per Sandwich – Approx.)

Calories: ~390

Protein: 15g

Carbs: 30g

Fat: 24g

Fiber: 2g