How to cook a beef burger in an air fryer? - Chef's Resource (2024)

For burger lovers who want to enjoy a delicious homemade beef burger without the hassle of firing up the grill or dealing with a greasy stovetop, the air fryer is a fantastic alternative. Air frying not only gives your burger a mouthwatering taste and a perfect golden brown crust but also reduces the overall fat content. So, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking a beef burger in an air fryer and relish every juicy bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

– Ground beef (80% lean) – 1 pound
– Hamburger buns
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, ketchup, mayo, and pickles

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. **Preheat.** Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. **Shape the patties.** Take the ground beef and gently shape it into burger patties, ensuring they are of equal thickness. To avoid shrinking during cooking, make the patties slightly larger than the buns.
3. **Season.** Season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning mix. Ensure you press the seasoning into the meat for optimal flavor infusion.
4. **Cooking time.** Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space in between. **Cook the beef burgers in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes**, flipping them halfway through for even browning. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer your burgers more well-done or rare.
5. **Check doneness.** To ensure that your burgers are cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Beef burgers should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for a well-done burger.
6. **Toast the buns.** While the burgers are cooking, you can toast your hamburger buns by placing them in the air fryer for about 1-2 minutes, until they are lightly golden and crisp.
7. **Assemble your burger.** Once the burgers and buns are ready, it’s time to assemble your burger. Add your desired toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, ketchup, mayo, or pickles. Get creative and personalize it to your taste!
8. **Serve and enjoy!** Your juicy and flavorful air-fried beef burgers are now ready to be devoured. Serve them alongside a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use frozen burger patties in an air fryer?

A1: Yes, you can use frozen burger patties in an air fryer. Adjust the cooking time to 12-15 minutes and increase it if needed.

Q2: Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

A2: Yes, preheating the air fryer is essential as it ensures even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior.

Q3: Can I use a different kind of meat, like turkey or chicken?

A3: Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken to make a healthier alternative to beef burgers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q4: How do I know if my burgers are cooked thoroughly?

A4: You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burgers. For beef burgers, it should reach 160°F (71°C) for a well-done patty.

Q5: What type of buns are best for air fryer burgers?

A5: Any type of burger buns will work perfectly fine in an air fryer. You can choose from whole wheat, brioche, sesame, or even gluten-free buns based on your preference.

Q6: Can I cook multiple burger patties at once?

A6: Yes, you can cook multiple burger patties at once, but make sure there is enough space between them to allow proper airflow and even cooking.

Q7: Can I add cheese during the cooking process?

A7: Yes, you can add cheese during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. This allows the cheese to melt and become perfectly gooey.

Q8: Can I marinate the beef patties before air frying?

A8: Absolutely! Marinating the beef patties before air frying adds an extra depth of flavor. Just remember to pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the air fryer.

Q9: Can I use an air fryer oven instead of a basket-type air fryer?

A9: Yes, you can use an air fryer oven to cook beef burgers. The process remains the same; however, the cooking time may slightly differ based on the size and heating capacity of your air fryer oven.

Q10: Is it necessary to flip the burgers while cooking?

A10: Yes, flipping the burgers halfway through the cooking time ensures even browning on both sides and prevents excessive charring.

Q11: Can I reheat leftover burgers in an air fryer?

A11: Absolutely! Reheating leftover burgers in an air fryer helps restore their crispiness. Simply cook them at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Q12: Are air-fried burgers healthier than grilled or pan-fried burgers?

A12: Yes, air-fried burgers are generally healthier as they require less oil to cook and the excess fat drips away during the cooking process.