The Ultimate Guide to Making a Turkey Sandwich in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in recent years Their ability to make crispy foods like fries and wings without all the oil of traditional frying makes them very appealing But air fryers aren’t just for french fries and frozen foods! You can make all kinds of delicious dishes in them, including sandwiches. A turkey sandwich made in an air fryer comes out hot, melty, and crispy – a great quick meal!

In this ultimate guide we will walk through everything you need to know to make the perfect turkey and cheese sandwich in an air fryer.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Sandwiches

There are several advantages to using an air fryer versus traditional cooking methods to make hot sandwiches:

• Cooks faster – No need to wait for your oven to preheat or skillet to heat up. Air fryers heat in just minutes.

• Crispy exterior – The circulating hot air crisps up and browns the bread nicely.

• Melts cheese smoothly – The gentle heat melts cheese perfectly without burning or drying it out.

• Adds flavor – Air frying infuses more flavor into the ingredients than other cooking methods.

• Easy to use – Simply assemble set time and temperature and air fry. Much easier than grilling or panini pressing.

• More compact – Air fryers take up less space than an oven or stovetop. Great for small kitchens.

• Energy efficient – Air fryers use less energy than heating up a full size oven.

How to Choose the Best Bread

Picking the right bread is important for getting the perfect texture when air frying. Here are some tips:

• Crusty artisan loaves like Italian, French, or sourdough work great. The crust gets extra crispy.

• Sturdy rolls with a soft interior and crusty exterior hold up well, like sub rolls.

• Thick sliced bread is best. Thin slices may get too crispy and dried out. Go for 3/4 to 1 inch slices.

• Avoid flatbreads and wraps that could blow around in the air fryer.

• Brush the bread’s outer sides with butter or olive oil to promote browning and a crispy crust.

Picking the Best Cheese for Melty Deliciousness

Using a cheese that melts smoothly is key for a perfect turkey and cheese sandwich. The best options include:

• Cheddar – Sharp cheddar adds great flavor.

• Provolone – Melts into a smooth, gooey texture.

• Swiss – Delicate, slightly sweet flavor that melts beautifully.

• American – Melts evenly without separating or getting greasy.

• Mozzarella – Fresh mozzarella softens into melted strings.

• Muenster – Mild, soft cheese that melts exceptionally well.

Avoid hard, crumbly cheeses like parmesan that don’t melt smoothly.

Turkey and Topping Ideas

While turkey is the star, complementary flavors can really make the sandwich pop. Consider:

• Leftover roasted turkey or quality deli-sliced turkey.

• Cranberry sauce for classic Thanksgiving flavor.

• Pesto adds herbaceous moisture and flavor.

• Sliced tomatoes provide juicy contrast to the turkey.

• Fresh spinach for color and health benefits.

• Crispy cooked bacon gives a smoky, salty crunch.

• Avocado brings creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for hot, melty turkey and cheese sandwiches from your air fryer:

1. Layer the bottom bread slice with cheese, turkey, toppings, more cheese, and the top bread. Spread butter or condiments on the interior or exterior.

2. Use toothpicks to hold the sandwich layers together during air frying.

3. Brush the outer bread sides with melted butter or olive oil.

4. Place the assembled sandwich in the air fryer basket. Make sure air flows around both sides.

5. Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F to 360°F. Cook time depends on bread type, but 5-8 minutes is typical.

6. Flip the sandwich halfway through cooking for even crispness.

7. Cook until the cheese melts completely and the bread is golden brown.

8. Remove from the air fryer and let cool briefly before biting in. Take out any toothpicks.

9. Enjoy your hot, crispy, melty turkey sandwich!

Tips for Air Frying Sandwiches

• Use a thermometer to ensure your air fryer reaches the set temp before cooking.

• Use tongs and mitts when flipping to avoid burns.

• If using delicate bread, use more toothpicks to reinforce the sandwich layers.

• Watch closely at the end of cooking to prevent over-browning.

• Allow to cool 1-2 minutes before eating so filling doesn’t burn your mouth.

• Clean air fryer grease drips after each use.

• Adjust cook times up or down based on sandwich size and desired crispness.

• Pair with soup, salad, or chips for a complete meal.

Get Creative with Fun Flavor Combinations

While classic turkey and cheese sandwiches are always tasty, you can also get creative with air fryer turkey sandwiches:

• Use cranberry sauce and stuffing for a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich.

• Add avocado, bacon, tomato, and chipotle mayo for a BLT twist.

• Use fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, and balsamic for an Italian caprese vibe.

• Fry hash browns or tater tots inside for an indulgent crunch.

• Mix in buffalo sauce, blue cheese, and celery for a spicy buffalo flavor.

• Stuff with spinach, roasted peppers, and caramelized onions for veggie goodness.

Let your cravings lead the way when making gourmet turkey sandwiches in the air fryer!

Reheating Leftover Turkey Sandwiches

Have leftover turkey sandwiches after a party or meal? Yes, you can reheat them to crispy perfection in an air fryer!

Tips for reheating turkey sandwiches:

• Unwrap from paper, foil, or plastic wrap to allow air flow.

• Place open-face if the bread got soggy.

• Use toothpicks to hold layers together, if needed.

• Air fry at 330°F for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Watch closely to prevent over-drying or burning.

The air fryer breathe new life into leftover turkey sandwiches!

Satisfy Your Craving for a Hot Turkey Sandwich

Air fryers take the classic hot turkey and cheese sandwich to the next level. With so many benefits and easy instructions, you’ll be satisfied and ready to get creative with different flavors and recipes. Use this guide to enjoy diner-worthy crispy, melty turkey sandwiches right from your air fryer any time a craving strikes.