A writer has put three different cheese toastie methods to the test, discovering that pan-frying produces the crunchiest result by far. While cheese toasties are a classic lunch option, they can be made without a dedicated toastie maker using various kitchen appliances.
The Experiment
Using the same ingredients—sourdough bread, sliced mozzarella, and cheddar—the writer tested three methods: oven-baking, air frying, and pan-frying. The oven method, while simple, yielded a less crispy sandwich. Despite an extra five minutes of cooking, the toastie remained softer than desired.
Oven-Baked Method
The oven-baked cheese toastie was straightforward: place the assembled sandwich in the oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway. Although it tasted good, the texture lacked the desired crunch. The advantage is minimal effort, as you can leave it to cook with only a brief check midway.
Air-Fried Method
Using an air fryer proved tricky due to its small size; the sandwich had to be cooked in two halves, each taking about eight minutes. The result was slightly crispier than the oven version, but not significantly better. A larger air fryer might have been faster.
Pan-Fried Method
Pan-frying emerged as the clear winner, delivering the perfect level of crispiness. The writer noted that the cheese could have melted more, but this might be due to cheese quality rather than technique. The method requires more attention and is not ideal for busy weekdays, but it is the best choice for a leisurely weekend lunch.
Overall, while the oven and air fryer offer convenience, pan-frying provides the crunchiest and most satisfying cheese toastie.
