Save A delightful fusion of classic grilled cheese and Margherita pizza flavors, this crispy sandwich features gooey mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a tangy pizza sauce—all perfectly toasted in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- Bread & Dairy: 4 slices sourdough or Italian bread, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened, 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetables & Herbs: 1 medium ripe tomato thinly sliced, 8 fresh basil leaves torn
- Sauces & Seasonings: 4 tablespoons pizza sauce (store bought or homemade), 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Step 2:
- Lay two bread slices buttered side down on a cutting board.
- Step 3:
- Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on each slice.
- Step 4:
- Layer mozzarella slices tomato slices and torn basil leaves over the sauce.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan oregano salt and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Top with the remaining bread slices buttered side up to form sandwiches.
- Step 7:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Place sandwiches in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Step 9:
- Air fry for 4 minutes. Flip sandwiches then air fry for another 4 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Step 10:
- Let cool slightly slice and serve immediately.
Save Notes
Serve with a green salad or tomato soup for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Air fryer Knife Cutting board Spatula
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (mozzarella Parmesan butter) Check all ingredient labels if you have severe allergies.
Save Recipe Help & Answers
- → What bread works best for this sandwich?
Sourdough or Italian bread holds up well, providing a crisp exterior and soft interior when air fried.
- → Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
Fresh mozzarella offers the best melt and flavor, but you can use provolone or fontina for a similar creamy texture.
- → How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Evenly spreading softened butter on the outer sides helps create a crispy crust and prevents sogginess during cooking.
- → Is it necessary to flip the sandwich during air frying?
Flipping halfway ensures both sides brown evenly and the cheese melts uniformly throughout the sandwich.
- → Can I add spices for more flavor?
A pinch of dried oregano or crushed red pepper flakes layered into the sauce adds a pleasant depth and mild heat.