Crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs (Print Version)
Crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs are a fun twist on two classics. Get cheesy, crunchy goodness with juicy hot dogs, air-fried to perfection.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 12 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
4 slices sturdy bread (like Texas Toast or Sourdough)
02 -
4 hot dogs (your favorite brand)
→ Cheesy Goodness
03 -
4 slices cheddar cheese
04 -
4 slices American cheese
→ Crisping Agent
05 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
→ Optional Finishing Touches
06 -
Ketchup, for serving
07 -
Mustard, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, grab your bread slices and spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. This is where the magic starts for that golden crisp. I always get a little messy with butter, but hey, that's real cooking, right? Just make sure to get right to the edges; it makes all the difference for a truly crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs.
02 -
Flip your bread slices so the unbuttered side is facing up. Now, place one slice of cheddar on each piece, followed by a slice of American cheese. This combo, trust me, creates the most epic cheese pull. I remember the first time I did this, I was worried it wouldn't be enough cheese, but it really is perfect for the Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs.
03 -
Time for the stars of the show! Place one hot dog squarely in the center of the cheese-layered side of each bread slice. Make sure it's snug but not squished. This step feels a bit like tucking a baby into bed, honestly. You want it secure for its air fryer journey to becoming the best Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs.
04 -
Carefully fold the bread slice over the hot dog, bringing the edges together. You might need to gently press the edges to seal them a bit. Don't worry if it's not a perfect seal; the cheese will act as glue as it melts. I always end up with a slightly lopsided one, but it tastes exactly the same, so no stress!
05 -
Place your folded Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs seam-side down in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd it, or they won't get properly crispy. Depending on your air fryer, you might need to do this in batches. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes.
06 -
After the initial cooking time, carefully flip the Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs. You should see a beautiful golden-brown crust forming. Continue to air fry for another 3-5 minutes, or until both sides are deeply golden and the cheese is oozing out just a little, giving you that irresistible aroma. My kitchen smells amazing at this point!
07 -
These are best enjoyed hot and fresh, right out of the air fryer. Let them cool for just a minute or two, because that melted cheese is lava hot! Slice them in half if you like, and serve with your favorite dips. Honestly, my mouth waters every single time.
# Notes:
01 -
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; airflow is key for that crispy exterior.
02 -
Use a sturdy bread, or your grilled cheese hot dogs will fall apart.
03 -
Pre-shredded cheese can make things gummy; slices are superior for melt.
04 -
Try dipping them in a side of warm tomato soup for an unexpected, delightful twist.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Air fryer
02 -
knife
03 -
cutting board
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Total Carbohydrate: 35 g
Protein: 18 g