Air-Fryer Cheese & Ham Toastie Recipe
Introduction
This air-fryer cheese and ham toastie is a quick and satisfying snack that combines gooey melted cheese with savory ham. Crispy on the outside and deliciously warm inside, it’s a perfect comfort food ready in minutes.

Ingredients
- 20g butter, softened
- 2 slices sourdough or other bread
- ½ tsp English mustard
- 50g grated mature cheddar or gruyère
- 1 tbsp chopped chives (optional)
- 1 thick slice of ham
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the air-fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- Step 2: Butter one side of each bread slice evenly.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix the remaining butter with the English mustard, grated cheese, and chopped chives if using. Season with black pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the unbuttered sides of the bread.
- Step 5: Place the slice of ham over the cheese on one bread slice, then top with the other slice, buttered side facing out.
- Step 6: Place the sandwich in the air-fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese has melted.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a thin slice of tomato or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Use wholegrain or rye bread for a different texture and taste.
- Swap English mustard with Dijon for a milder heat.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ham with grilled vegetables or more cheese.
Storage
Enjoy the toastie fresh for the best taste and texture. If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat in the air-fryer or oven to restore crispness, avoiding the microwave if possible to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well like mozzarella, fontina, or a cheese blend to customize the flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have an air-fryer?
You can cook the toastie in a non-stick pan or sandwich press on medium heat, pressing down gently and turning until golden and cheese is melted.
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Air-Fryer Cheese & Ham Toastie Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
Description
A quick and delicious air-fried cheese and ham toastie featuring mature cheddar or gruyère melted between buttery slices of sourdough bread, seasoned with English mustard and optionally fresh chives, perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 20g butter, softened
- 2 slices sourdough or other bread
Filling
- ½ tsp English mustard
- 50g grated mature cheddar or gruyère
- 1 tbsp chopped chives (optional)
- 1 thick slice of ham
Instructions
- Preheat the Air-Fryer: Heat the air-fryer to 190°C to ensure it is at the optimal temperature for toasting and melting the cheese inside the sandwich.
- Butter the Bread: Butter one side of each bread slice evenly with the softened butter; this will give a crispy, golden exterior when air-fried.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the remaining butter with the English mustard, grated mature cheddar or gruyère, and chopped chives if using. Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the Toastie: Spread the cheese mixture over the unbuttered side of the bread slices. Place the thick slice of ham between the two slices so that the buttered sides are facing outward, creating a sandwich.
- Air-Fry the Sandwich: Place the sandwich in the preheated air-fryer and cook for 10 minutes, turning once halfway through. Cook until the outside is golden and crunchy and the cheese has melted completely inside.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bread like sourdough for the best texture and to hold the filling well.
- Substitute mature cheddar with gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
- Chives are optional but add a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Turning the toastie once during air-frying ensures even crispiness on both sides.
- Adjust timing slightly depending on your air-fryer’s model and strength.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: cheese toastie, ham toastie, air fryer sandwich, melted cheese sandwich, quick snack

