If you’re a fan of both hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches, you’re in for a delightful treat! This Air Fryer Hot Dog Melt combines the juicy goodness of a sliced hot dog with the gooey meltiness of cheese, all nestled on a crispy, toasted slice of bread. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.
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Air-fried hot dogs with crispy buns are always a family favorite, but this hot dog grilled cheese takes things to a whole new level. Served on golden, toasted bread with flavorful veggies like peppers and onions, the cheese melts beautifully over the sliced hot dog, creating an irresistible, gooey bite. The buttery, crispy bread adds the perfect crunch, making every mouthful even more delicious. It’s quick, easy, and customizable with your favorite cheeses and toppings. If you love easy air fryer melts, be sure to try my Steak Melt, Onion Grilled Cheese, and Grilled Caprese for more cheesy, toasty goodness!
Ingredients
- Hot dog: Evenly cut into 3 slices
- Slice of bread: Go for a hearty and robust loaf such as sourdough or rye. These types of bread offer a sturdy flavor and a thicker texture that will stand up well to air-frying. If you’re in the mood for something a bit sweeter, use challah or brioche instead. This will give your sandwich an elevated sweetness yet still perfectly balanced with all your desired fillings.
- Mayo: Spread a thin layer on a slice of bread.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add any veggies of your choice. I chose the air-fried peppers and onions. You can also add mushrooms or crispy red onions instead.
- Cheese: Provolone and mozzarella are great options to pair with any type of filling. If you want something a bit bold, try Swiss or cheddar – they will both deliver a cheesy punch but won’t overpower the other ingredients in your sandwich.
Directions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up.
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of the bread slice.
- Assemble the Melt: Cut hot dog into 3 even slices lengthwise. Place the sliced hot dog pieces on the mayo-coated bread. Add any optional toppings like vegetables, then lay the cheese slice over the top.
- Air Fry: Carefully place the assembled sandwich into the air fryer basket or tray. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and caramelized to your liking.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, let it cool slightly, and enjoy your delicious hot dog melt!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen hot dogs for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them first for even cooking, or slice them frozen and add a couple of extra minutes to the air fryer time. - How do I keep the cheese from flying off in the air fryer?
To prevent cheese from shifting, use shredded cheese or place a slice under the hot dog instead of on top. - What’s the best way to prevent soggy bread?
Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or butter on the outside of the bread before air frying—it helps crisp it up while adding flavor. - Can I make this with a hot dog bun instead of sliced bread?
Absolutely! Slice the hot dog in half, place it inside a bun with cheese, and air fry open-faced for a crispier bite. - What’s the best cheese for an extra gooey melt?
Provolone, mozzarella, or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack give the best melt, but feel free to experiment with your favorites! - Can I meal prep these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the melts and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When ready, air fry for a few extra minutes until golden and melty. - Can I use butter instead of mayo for toasting the bread? Absolutely! Butter works just as well as mayo to achieve that golden, crispy crust. Just spread a thin, even layer on the bread before air frying.
Toppings Ideas for Hot Dog Grilled Cheese
Hot dog grilled cheese sandwiches can be topped with all sorts of delicious condiments and accompaniments. Just be sure they go below the cheese, so the cheese can melt over the toppings. Please try:
- Sauteed Onions
- Mushrooms
- Crunchy Fried Pickles – Instead of regular pickles, add crispy air-fried pickles for a satisfying crunch with a salty, tangy contrast.
- Kimchi & Chipotle Mayo – Give it a bold, tangy crunch with kimchi, balanced by creamy, spicy Chipotle mayo for a fusion-inspired bite.
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Air Fryer Hot Dog Melt
Ingredients
- 1 Hot dog sliced lengthwise into three even pieces.
- 1 Bread slice slice of hearty bread like sourdough or rye for a sturdy base.
- 1 teaspoon Mayo A thin layer to spread on the bread for added flavor and crispiness. Or use butter instead.
- 1 slice Cheese large slice of Provolone or your preferred melting cheese.
Optional Toppings
- Air-fried peppers and onions, mushrooms, or sautéed onions for added flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up.
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of the bread slice.
- Assemble the Melt: Cut hot dog into 3 even slices lengthwise. Place the sliced hot dog pieces on the mayo-coated bread. Add any optional toppings like vegetables, then lay the cheese slice over the top.
- Air Fry: Carefully place the assembled sandwich into the air fryer basket or tray. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and caramelized to your liking.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, let it cool slightly, and enjoy your delicious hot dog melt!
Notes
- Prevent Cheese from Moving: If you find that the cheese moves due to the air circulation in the fryer, consider using shredded cheese, securing the cheese with toothpicks, or pre-melting the cheese slightly using a “toast” or “bake” setting before air frying.
- Bread Choices: Opt for robust breads like sourdough or rye to hold up well during cooking. For a sweeter twist, challah or brioche can be used.
- Additional Toppings: Customize your melt with various toppings such as air-fried peppers, onions and mushrooms, or a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning to elevate the flavor.
Mayo on a Hot Dog???
Gross!
I love Mayo on anything. I gave up on Ketchup decades ago.
I get it—mayo on a hot dog isn’t for everyone! 😆 But trust me, when it’s all melty and crispy in the air fryer, it just hits different! You might be surprised! 😉🔥
are the hot dogs cooked before you start the air fry ? You certainly have great menus. Thank you.
Thank you very much! The hot dogs that you get from the supermarket are typically fully cooked (not raw). Then there are different methods – grill, bbq, oven or air fry. Try in the air fryer for the best results
I love all your recipes and have tried quite a few, they all have been great Many thanks and hope they keep coming.
Thank you very much! You’re welcome! I’m glad that you’re enjoying the recipes