The Ultimate Air Fryer Burgers Recipe: A Juicy, Flavorful
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while still delivering crispy, juicy, and delicious results. Among the countless dishes you can make in an air fryer, burgers stand out as a crowd favorite. If you’re looking for a quick, foolproof way to whip up mouthwatering burgers that pack a punch in flavor and texture, this Air Fryer Burgers Recipe is perfect for you.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make juicy, evenly cooked burgers using your air fryer. We’ll cover everything, from prep time and ingredients to detailed instructions and nutritional information, ensuring your burger game reaches new heights.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300–400 (depending on toppings and patty size)
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
Recipe Details
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Active Cook Time:
10–12 minutes
Resting Time:
3 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Servings:
4
Cuisine:
American
Course:
Main Course
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer (optional, but highly recommended)
- Aluminum foil (for resting the burgers)
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Onion slices (raw or caramelized)
- Pickles
- Ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise
For the Buns:
- 4 burger buns (regular, brioche, or whole wheat)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the buns)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to prevent tough patties.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick. Use your thumb to make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This step ensures even cooking and a nice sear on the patties.
3. Cook the Patties
- Place the burger patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s enough space between them for air to circulate. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry the patties at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. For medium-rare burgers, cook until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C), and for well-done, go up to 160°F (71°C).
4. Add Cheese (Optional)
- If you’re using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking. Close the air fryer basket to allow the cheese to melt.
5. Rest the Patties
- Once cooked, remove the patties from the air fryer and tent them loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
6. Toast the Buns (Optional)
- If desired, spread a thin layer of butter on the inside of each bun half. Place the buns in the air fryer and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 1–2 minutes.
7. Assemble the Burgers
- Build your burgers by layering the cooked patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments on the toasted buns. Feel free to customize with additional toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or a fried egg.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the burgers immediately with a side of fries, salad, or roasted veggies.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Burgers:
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: For the juiciest burgers, opt for ground beef with a fat content of 20%.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gentle handling keeps the meat tender and juicy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Allow enough space between patties for proper air circulation.
- Check the Temperature: A meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked burgers every time.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add spices, herbs, or even a dollop of Dijon mustard to the patty mix for unique twist.
Why Make Burgers in an Air Fryer?
Air fryer burgers are a game-changer for several reasons:
- Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses less oil while still achieving a crispy exterior.
- Quick and Easy: You can cook burgers in under 15 minutes without firing up the grill.
- Consistent Results: The air fryer ensures even cooking, leaving you with perfectly juicy patties every time.
Conclusion
Making burgers in an air fryer is a simple yet rewarding experience. With this Air Fryer Burgers Recipe, you’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful patties with a perfectly crispy exterior in less time and with less effort than traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just craving a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
So, dust off your air fryer and get ready to create the ultimate homemade burgers that rival any restaurant’s!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.