There’s nothing quite like a hot and crispy Monte Cristo sandwich, and now you can enjoy one made right in your air fryer!
This air fryer monte cristo recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
But that’s not all – in this post, I’ll also share some tips and variations to help you make your Monte Cristo sandwich extra tasty.
So, what are you waiting for? try my air fried monte cristo recipe and enjoy!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
It’s quick and easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hot and crispy Monte Cristo sandwich in just minutes.
The air fryer does most of the work, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
It’s perfect for any time of day: Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this recipe has you covered.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some of the variations listed on this page for a unique twist on the classic sandwich.
It’s a delicious twist on a classic sandwich: The Monte Cristo sandwich is already a favorite among sandwich lovers, but this recipe takes it to the next level.
The air fryer gives it an extra crispy texture while the pancake batter adds a sweet and savory flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.
👨🍳 Air Fryer Monte Cristo Ingredients
For this monte cristo air fryer recipe you will these ingredients:
- 8 slices Bread
- 1 cup Pancake Mix
- 14 slices Ham
- 14 slices Cheese (Gouda or Swiss)
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 Egg
- 1/2 cup Milk
- Powdered Sugar
🌟 Monte Cristo Air Fryer Recipe
Follow this easy monte cristo sandwich air fryer recipe:
Step 1
Start by preheating the air fryer to 380F (190C).
Step 2
Combine the pancake mix, egg, milk, and water in a mixing bowl. Mix and stir until a thick batter forms. To make sure it isn’t watery, slowly add the liquid ingredients. Set aside.
Step 3
Place 1-2 slices of cheese on top of the bread, then add 3-4 slices of ham, top with more cheese, and then with the second piece of bread.
Step 4
Press down the sandwich and slide 4 toothpicks on each side to keep it in place.
Step 5
Dip the sandwich into the pancake batter- making sure to coat both sides well. Allow the excess batter to drip off before setting it on liner paper in the air fryer basket.
Step 6
Air fry for 6-7 minutes, then flip the sandwich over, and air fry at 350F for 1 more minute. Remove from the air fryer and pull the toothpicks out. Allow the sandwiches to cool down a bit, and then serve with powdered sugar on top.
🟢 More Air Fryer Recipes
If you liked this air fryer monte cristo recipe, make sure to check out these recipes:
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Green Bean Fries
- Air Fryer Jelly Donuts
- Air Fryer Pumpkin Bread
💡 Tips
Below you will find my best tips for this monte cristo air fryer recipe:
1. Try Different Cheese Types
While this air fryer monte cristo recipe calls for Gouda or Swiss cheese, feel free to try other varieties such as cheddar, Provolone, or even blue cheese.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can also combine different cheeses together.
2. Use Different Bread Types
Similarly to the cheese, you can also switch up the bread you use for this recipe. I used regular white bread, but you can try using sourdough, rye, or even cinnamon bread to give your Monte Cristo a unique twist.
3. Add Jam Or Jelly
If you want to take your air fryer monte cristo sandwich to the next level, try adding a spoonful of jam or jelly before dipping it in the pancake batter.
Raspberry, strawberry, and apricot are all great options that will add a sweet and fruity flavor to the sandwich.
Once the sandwich is cooked, the jam or jelly will melt and create a delicious gooey filling that perfectly complements the savory ham and cheese.
4. Serve With A Side Of Dipping Sauce
Adding a side of dipping sauce can take this dish to the next level. Maple syrup, honey mustard, and raspberry vinaigrette are all great options that will add an extra layer of flavor to the sandwich.
5. Add Some Spice With Hot Sauce Or Mustard
Try adding some hot sauce or mustard to your Monte Cristo sandwich. Dijon mustard, honey mustard, or even sriracha sauce are all great options that will add some bold and spicy flavor to the sandwich.
Simply spread a small amount on the bread before assembling the sandwich, or serve on the side for dipping.
✔️ Variations
Air Fryer Turkey and Cranberry Monte Cristo: Replace the ham with turkey and add a dollop of cranberry sauce on top of the cheese before dipping it in the pancake batter.
The sweet and tart flavors of cranberry sauce will complement the savory turkey and cheese, making for a perfect holiday meal.
Air Fryer Croque-Monte Cristo: For a French twist, use Gruyere cheese and ham, and spread some Dijon mustard on the bread before assembling the sandwich. Dip it in the pancake batter and air fry it as the recipe instructs.
Air Fryer Hawaiian Monte Cristo: For a tropical twist, replace the ham with sliced pineapple and Canadian bacon. You can also use Hawaiian bread instead of white bread for an extra fruity flavor.
Dip the sandwich in the pancake batter and air fry until crispy. Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping and enjoy a taste of the islands.
Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Monte Cristo: For a Philly-inspired twist, replace the ham with thinly sliced steak and sauteed onions and peppers.
Use Provolone cheese and Italian bread, and dip the sandwich in the pancake batter before air frying. Serve with a side of spicy mayo or cheese sauce for dipping.
Air Fryer Breakfast Monte Cristo: Replace the ham with bacon and add a fried egg on top of the cheese before assembling the sandwich.
Dip it in the pancake batter and air fry until crispy. Serve with a side of maple syrup or honey for dipping and enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast.
Air Fryer Greek Monte Cristo: For a Mediterranean twist, replace the ham with gyro meat and add sliced tomatoes and feta cheese on top of the ham before assembling the sandwich.
Use pita bread instead of white bread and dip the sandwich in the pancake batter. Air fry until crispy and serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
↩️ Ingredient Substitutions
Ham – Can be substituted with turkey, chicken, or roast beef for a different flavor.
Cheese – Instead of Gouda or Swiss cheese, you can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella cheese.
Bread – Instead of regular white bread, you can use whole wheat bread, sourdough bread, or even French bread.
Pancake mix – If you don’t have pancake mix, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
Powdered sugar – If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until it becomes powdery.
🎉 Gluten Free Option
To make this air fryer monte cristo sandwich recipe gluten-free, you can replace the regular bread and pancake mix with gluten-free options.
There are many gluten-free bread options available at most grocery stores, or you can make your own using a gluten-free bread recipe.
For the pancake mix, you can use a gluten-free pancake mix or make your own by combining 1 cup of gluten-free flour (such as almond flour or coconut flour), 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
👍 Keto / Low Carb Version
To make this monte cristo sandwich in air fryer recipe keto friendly and low-carb, you can replace the regular bread and pancake mix with keto friendly, low carb options.
For the bread, you can use a keto bread recipe made with almond flour or coconut flour. For the pancake mix, you can use a keto pancake mix or make your own by combining 1 cup of almond flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar substitute (such as erythritol or stevia).
You can also omit the powdered sugar topping or use a keto-friendly powdered sugar substitute made with erythritol.
👪 FAQ
Can I make this recipe in a regular oven?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a regular oven by baking the sandwich at 400F for 10-12 minutes.
Can I freeze the sandwich and reheat it later?
It’s not recommended to freeze the sandwich, as it may become soggy or lose its texture when reheated.
How do I know when the sandwich is done cooking in the air fryer?
The sandwich is done cooking in the air fryer when it’s crispy and golden brown on the outside, and the cheese is melted on the inside.
I hope you liked my air fryer monte cristo recipe. This dish is amazingly easy to make and the air fryer adds a delicious crunch that is hard to beat.
If you have any questions about this air fryer monte cristo sandwich recipe- comment below and I’ll answer them! Don’t forget to check out other air fryer recipes on my blog.
Air Fryer Monte Cristo
- 8 slices Bread
- 1 cup Pancake Mix
- 14 slices Ham
- 14 slices Cheese (Gouda or Swiss)
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 Egg
- 1/2 cup Milk
- Powdered Sugar
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 380F (190C).
- Combine the pancake mix, egg, milk, and water in a mixing bowl. Mix and stir until a thick batter forms. To make sure it isn’t watery, slowly add the liquid ingredients. Set aside.
- Place 1-2 slices of cheese on top of the bread, then add 3-4 slices of ham, top with more cheese, and then with the second piece of bread.
- Press down the sandwich and slide a toothpick on each side to keep it in place.
- Dip the sandwich into the pancake batter- making sure to coat both sides well. Allow the excess batter to drip off before setting it on liner paper in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry the sandwich for 6-7 minutes, then flip the sandwich over, and air fry at 350F for 1 more minute. Remove from the air fryer and pull the toothpicks out. Allow the sandwiches to cool down a bit, and then serve with powdered sugar on top.
