If you want a quick and satisfying snack, this air fryer tomato melt is the perfect choice. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of fresh tomato flavor, ready in just minutes. Think of it as a lighter, open-faced grilled cheese made in the air fryer—crispy bread on the bottom, juicy tomatoes in the middle, and gooey melted cheese on top.
This recipe is great for a simple lunch, an appetizer, or even a midnight snack. With only a handful of ingredients, you can make it anytime. The air fryer cooks the bread evenly, making it crisp without burning, while the cheese gets perfectly melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 15 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have
- Vegetarian-friendly and kid-approved
- Great as a snack, lunch, or side dish
- Customizable with herbs, seasonings, or extra toppings
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bread slices (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
- Fresh tomato slices
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or your favorite melting cheese)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt & black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, dried oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Bread – Lightly brush or spread butter/olive oil on one side of the bread slice.
- Assemble – Place tomato slices on top of the bread. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Add Cheese – Place a slice of cheese or shredded cheese over the tomatoes.
- Air Fry – Put the bread in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve – Carefully remove and enjoy warm, straight from the air fryer.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a green salad for a light lunch
- Pair with soup (like tomato or vegetable soup)
- Cut into small squares as a party appetizer
- Top with fresh basil for extra flavor
Tips & Tricks
- Use thick bread for a sturdier base, especially if tomatoes are juicy.
- Pat tomato slices with paper towels before using to avoid sogginess.
- Try different cheeses for variety—mozzarella for stretchy melts, cheddar for sharp flavor, or provolone for mild creaminess.
- Add a sprinkle of parmesan or fresh herbs after cooking for extra flavor.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and bread thickness.
- Best served hot; leftovers are not as crispy when reheated.
Air Fryer Tomato Melt
Description
This air fryer tomato melt is a quick, cheesy, and delicious snack or light meal. Crispy bread, fresh tomatoes, and melted cheese make it a perfect comfort food in minutes.
Duration
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
- Total Time: 10–12 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 1–2 fresh tomatoes, sliced
- 2 slices of cheese (or ½ cup shredded cheese)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, oregano, basil
Instructions
- Brush bread with olive oil or butter.
- Place tomato slices on bread, season with salt and pepper.
- Add cheese on top.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
