Ingredients:

  • 2 thick slices sourdough bread
  • 1.5 tbsp salted butter, softened
  • 2 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 slice Gruyère cheese
  • 1 pinch garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Liberally coat one side of each bread slice with softened butter. Ensure coverage reaches the edges for uniform browning. Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder over the butter.
  2. Spread Dijon mustard on the interior side of one bread slice. Place that slice, butter-side down, in the air fryer basket.
  3. Layer the freshly grated sharp cheddar and the slice of Gruyère evenly across the bread. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
  4. Insert two wooden toothpicks diagonally into opposite corners of the sandwich to secure the top slice against the air fryer's convection fan.
  5. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 4 minutes. Open the basket, remove toothpicks, flip the sandwich with a spatula, and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the crust is mahogany-colored and the cheese is molten.