If you’re a fan of grilled cheese sandwiches, then you’re in for a treat with this air fryer version! These Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Roll-Ups take everything you love about a classic grilled cheese and turn it into a fun, crispy, and easy-to-make bite-sized snack. Not only are these roll-ups perfect for lunch, but they also make an excellent appetizer or party food. The best part? You can make them in no time with your trusty air fryer!
Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer user or just starting, this recipe is so simple and quick to make. With golden, crispy exteriors and melty, gooey cheese inside, you’ll never look at a traditional grilled cheese the same way again. Ready to take your grilled cheese game to the next level? Let’s get started!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Bread: For the best crispy roll-ups, you want to use soft, thick slices of bread. White or whole wheat bread works perfectly, but feel free to experiment with sourdough or even gluten-free bread for a twist!
Cheese: The heart of any grilled cheese is the cheese! A good melting cheese is key, and for this recipe, you can’t go wrong with cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both. The cheese should be sliced thinly or shredded so it melts evenly inside the rolls.
Butter: Butter gives these roll-ups that golden, crispy texture when air fried. Spread a generous layer of softened butter on the outside of the bread to achieve the perfect crispy crust.
Garlic Powder: For an extra flavor kick, a sprinkle of garlic powder adds savory depth to the outside of the roll-ups, making them irresistible.
Dipping Sauce (Optional): While not necessary, a little dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or even spicy ketchup can elevate this dish, providing a perfect contrast to the cheesy goodness.
Ingredients List
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Dipping sauce (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Roll-Ups
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by flattening the slices of bread. You can use a rolling pin to roll them out, making them slightly thinner. This helps the roll-ups hold together better and gives them an extra crispy finish when air fried.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
Place a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese) on each slice of bread. Don’t overstuff it, but make sure there’s enough to create that gooey melted texture when cooked.
Step 3: Roll it Up
Carefully roll each slice of bread with cheese into a tight roll-up. Make sure the seam is on the bottom to keep everything intact.
Step 4: Butter and Season
Spread softened butter on the outside of each roll-up, and sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder over the buttered surface for added flavor.
Step 5: Air Fry
Place the roll-ups in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the roll-ups are perfectly crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce if desired, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use fresh bread: Slightly stale bread can be difficult to roll without breaking, so make sure to use fresh, soft bread for the best results.
- Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to add a ton of cheese, overstuffing the bread will make it difficult to roll and may result in the cheese spilling out while cooking.
- Experiment with cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar. Try adding a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
- Flip halfway: For even crisping, flip the roll-ups halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are golden and crunchy.
- Keep it simple or get creative: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding extras like ham, turkey, or tomato inside the roll-ups for a more filling snack.
FAQs
Can I make these grilled cheese roll-ups without butter?
While butter helps achieve that crispy golden texture, you can opt for a lighter version by using olive oil spray or even cooking them without any butter for a healthier alternative.
Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a good-quality gluten-free bread that can hold up well to rolling and air frying.
How long should I air fry these roll-ups?
The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, but generally, 4-5 minutes at 375°F should give you perfectly crispy roll-ups.
Can I add other ingredients like ham or tomato?
Yes! You can customize these roll-ups by adding ingredients like deli meat, tomatoes, or even herbs. Just be mindful not to overstuff the rolls to ensure they cook evenly.
Can I make these ahead of time?
While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the roll-ups ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and air fry them when you’re ready to serve.