Air Fryer Breakfast Sandwich Recipe

A golden, fluffy English muffin encasing melted cheese, perfectly cooked egg patty, and crispy bacon—all toasted to perfection in an air fryer for a quick, satisfying morning meal.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
8 mins
Serves:
2 sandwiches
An overhead shot of the completed air fryer breakfast sandwich cut in half to showcase its impressive layers—golden-brown toasted English muffin, melted cheese oozing slightly at the edges, perfectly set egg patty, and crispy bacon strips. Captured in bright morning light streaming through a kitchen window, the sandwich sits on a light blue ceramic plate beside a small bowl of fresh berries and a steaming cup of coffee. Tiny droplets of condensation on the plate emphasize the sandwich's warmth, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of vibrant green against the golden-brown tones of the toasted exterior.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 English muffins, split</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">4 slices bacon (or vegetarian bacon)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 slices cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15g butter, softened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt and pepper to taste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 teaspoons cooking spray</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Egg rings or small round ramekins</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Small mixing bowl</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Silicone tongs</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes. While it's heating, lightly butter both sides of your English muffins. This will help them achieve that beautiful golden color and add extra flavor.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place the bacon strips in a single layer in your preheated air fryer basket and cook for 4-5 minutes until they reach your desired crispness. The hot circulating air makes bacon exceptionally crispy without the mess of traditional frying. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>While the bacon cooks, crack each egg into a small bowl, lightly beat, and season with salt and pepper. Spray your egg rings or small ramekins with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Pour the beaten eggs into the rings or ramekins, leaving a little room for expansion. Cook at 180°C for about 3-4 minutes until the eggs are set but not overcooked. The eggs should be firm enough to hold their shape but still slightly tender.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Remove the egg rounds carefully using silicone tongs. Place the buttered English muffins cut-side up in the air fryer basket and cook for 2 minutes until lightly toasted. The butter will melt into the bread, creating a delicious base for your sandwich.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Once the muffins are toasted, place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each muffin. Return to the air fryer for 30 seconds just until the cheese begins to melt. The residual heat from the freshly toasted muffin will continue melting the cheese as you assemble.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Assemble your sandwiches by placing the egg rounds on top of the melted cheese, followed by the crispy bacon strips. Top with the remaining English muffin halves, pressing gently to compact the sandwich slightly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>For an extra touch of toastiness, return the assembled sandwiches to the air fryer for 30 seconds. This will help meld all the flavors together and ensure your sandwich is warm throughout. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture!</li></ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 sandwich
🔥 Calories: 385 calories
🥑 Fat: 19 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 8 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 32 g
🍭 Sugar: 2 g
🍗 Protein: 21 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 225 mg
🧂 Sodium: 760 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can egg rings be substituted when making breakfast sandwiches in an air fryer?

Yes, if you don't have egg rings, you can use small oven-safe ramekins, silicone muffin cups, or even folded aluminium foil shaped into rings. Mason jar lids (without the centre piece) also work brilliantly for creating perfectly round egg patties.

What's the best cheese for melting on air fryer breakfast sandwiches?

American cheese melts most smoothly, while cheddar offers more flavour. Swiss provides a nutty taste that pairs well with bacon. For extra creaminess, try Gouda or Havarti. Monterey Jack melts well and brings a mild flavour that won't overpower the other ingredients.

How can I make these breakfast sandwiches healthier?

Use whole grain English muffins for added fibre, swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives, choose reduced-fat cheese, use egg whites instead of whole eggs, and add vegetables like spinach, tomato or avocado. These simple swaps reduce calories while adding nutrients.

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