If you love grilled cheese sandwiches and hot dogs, this Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs recipe is a must-try! It combines crispy, buttery bread, melty cheese, and juicy hot dogs, all made effortlessly in the air fryer. Perfect for a quick lunch, kid-friendly meal, or party snack, this recipe is easy, fun, and incredibly delicious. Plus, the air fryer ensures a golden, crispy texture without the mess of pan-frying!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
For the Hot Dogs:
- 4 hot dog buns (soft and fresh)
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (for an herby twist)
- 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Butter knife
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Slice each hot dog bun open just enough to fit the hot dog inside without breaking it apart.
- Place one slice of cheese inside each bun, ensuring it lines the sides.
- Place a hot dog in the middle of each bun, pressing it gently into the cheese.
2. Butter the Buns
- Spread softened butter on the outside of each bun.
- For extra flavor, mix in garlic powder or oregano with the butter before spreading.
3. Air Fry the Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2 minutes.
- Place the hot dogs in the air fryer seam-side down to help the cheese stay inside.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the air fryer, let cool slightly, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
- Don’t overstuff the buns – Too much cheese can cause overflow in the air fryer.
- Use fresh, soft buns – Stale buns won’t crisp up as well.
- Add shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the butter – Butter ensures a crispy, golden crust.
- Overcooking – Check frequently to prevent burning.
- Placing them too close together – Leave space for air circulation.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Serve with ketchup, mustard, or a spicy mayo dip.
- Pair with pickle slices for a tangy contrast.
- Add a side of crispy fries or onion rings for a complete meal.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes for a crispy texture.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based hot dogs and cheese.
- Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños inside the bun.
- Extra crispy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the buttered bun before air frying.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
- Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
- Sweet potato fries for a healthier side.
- Tomato soup for a grilled cheese classic pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack work great.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps achieve even crispiness.
Can I make this without an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook on a stovetop griddle over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs are crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious! Whether you’re making them for lunch, a quick snack, or a fun party dish, they’re always a hit. Try them today and let us know how they turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy recipes.
Calories Per Serving
Approximate Calories: 420 kcal per hot dog.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Serves: 4
PrintCrispy & Cheesy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs – A Fun & Easy Snack!
- Total Time: 12 minutes
Description
These Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs are crispy, buttery, and packed with cheesy goodness. A quick & easy family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Hot Dogs:
- 4 hot dog buns (soft and fresh)
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (for an herby twist)
- 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Slice each hot dog bun open just enough to fit the hot dog inside without breaking it apart.
- Place one slice of cheese inside each bun, ensuring it lines the sides.
- Place a hot dog in the middle of each bun, pressing it gently into the cheese.
2. Butter the Buns
- Spread softened butter on the outside of each bun.
- For extra flavor, mix in garlic powder or oregano with the butter before spreading.
3. Air Fry the Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2 minutes.
- Place the hot dogs in the air fryer seam-side down to help the cheese stay inside.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the air fryer, let cool slightly, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes
- Don’t overstuff the buns – Too much cheese can cause overflow in the air fryer.
- Use fresh, soft buns – Stale buns won’t crisp up as well.
- Add shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy bite.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 7
- Category: DINNER
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Calories: 420