Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 2
Cuisine: American
Course: Breakfast
Ingredients
- 2 slices thick sandwich bread
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon softened butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Spread a thin layer of softened butter on both sides of each slice of bread. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut a hole in the center of each slice, about 2½ inches wide. Keep the bread circles for toasting later if desired.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Assemble
Place the bread slices into the air fryer basket. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese around the hole in each slice. Carefully crack one egg into the center of each bread slice. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Step 4: Air Fry
Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, depending on how runny or firm you like your egg yolks. Check after 6 minutes for your preferred doneness.
Step 5: Add More Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the bread during the final minute of cooking. Continue cooking until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the cheesy egg in a hole from the air fryer using a spatula. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Recipe Tips
- Thick bread works best because it holds the egg securely.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- For extra flavor, use mozzarella, pepper jack, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, spinach, or sliced tomatoes before cooking for delicious variations.
- Adjust cooking time depending on your air fryer model and your preferred egg doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Fresh fruit
- Crispy bacon
- Breakfast sausage
- Hash browns
- Avocado slices
- Fresh salsa
- Hot sauce
- Fresh orange juice or coffee
Storage
This recipe is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. If needed, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the bread may become soft.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 315
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 205mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 240mg
- Iron: 2mg