Air Fryer Avocado Melt

Ingredients

• Sourdough or Artisanal Crusty Bread: 4 thick slices (holds up well to moisture without getting soggy)
• Ripe Avocados: 1 large (or 2 small), thinly sliced or gently mashed
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 4 slices (or shredded for an even melt)
• Low-Moisture Mozzarella or Monterey Jack: 4 slices (for that ideal gooey cheese pull)
• Roma Tomato: 1 medium, thinly sliced and dried slightly on a paper towel
• Unsalted Butter or Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp, softened (spread on the exterior for uniform browning)
• Lemon or Lime Juice: 1 tsp (brushed over avocado to enhance brightness and prevent browning)
• Red Pepper Flakes & Everything Bagel Seasoning: 1/2 tsp each (for flavor depth)
• Fine Sea Salt & Fresh Black Pepper: To taste

Instructions

1. Slice the ripe avocado and lightly sprinkle with fresh lemon or lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Pat tomato slices dry with a clean paper towel to eliminate excess moisture.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread.
3. Place one slice of Cheddar on each base slice of bread.
4. Layer the sliced avocado evenly across the cheese, followed by red pepper flakes and everything bagel seasoning.
5. Top with sliced tomatoes and a layer of Mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
6. Place the top bread slices to close the sandwiches.
7. Spread a thin layer of softened butter or mayonnaise across the outside top and bottom of each sandwich.
8. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Place the assembled sandwiches into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Tip: If your air fryer fan is very strong, secure the top slice of bread with a toothpick so it doesn’t shift.
9. Air fry at 375°F for 4 minutes. Open the basket, gently flip the sandwiches using a spatula, and air fry for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted.
10. Remove from the air fryer basket carefully. Allow the sandwich to rest for 1 minute before slicing diagonally to keep the warm, melted cheese intact.

Nutrition

Calories: 485 kcal 24% · Protein: 20 g 40% · Fat: 28 g 36% · Carbohydrates: 38 g 14% Dietary · Saturated Fat: 12 g 60% · Fiber: 7 g 25% · Sugar: 3 g — · Sodium: 680 mg 30%