Let’s be honest, sometimes you just need a quick, delicious meal without all the fuss. And what’s quicker, or more satisfying, than a juicy burger? If you own an air fryer, you’re in luck! This kitchen wizard can transform frozen burger patties into perfectly crispy, tender delights in a flash. Forget thawing; just pop them in and let the magic happen.
But to get that ultimate burger experience, you need the right ingredients and, sometimes, the right tools. We’ve rounded up 5 top products that will help you achieve the best frozen burgers for air fryer cooking, from the patties themselves to the air fryers that make them sing. Get ready for some seriously easy and tasty meals!
Top Frozen Burger Picks for Your Air Fryer
Cooking frozen burgers in an air fryer is a game-changer. Here are our top picks for patties that perform exceptionally well, delivering great flavor and texture right from your freezer.
Bubba Burger, Frozen Angus Beef Burger Patties, USDA Choice
Bubba Burger has long been a household name for quick and easy frozen patties, and their Angus Beef Burger Patties are no exception. What sets these apart for air frying is their commitment to quality beef (USDA Choice Angus!) and their unique “dimple” design, which helps them cook evenly without drying out. You can literally take them straight from the freezer to your air fryer, making meal prep almost non-existent. The result? A surprisingly juicy and flavorful burger that tastes like it took way more effort than it did.
Key Features:
– 100% USDA Choice Angus beef chuck
– Gluten-free, no added sodium, no additives or preservatives
– High in protein — 25g per patty
– Cook straight from the freezer — no thawing needed
– Ready in about 10 minutes in an air fryer
Pros:
– Super convenient: no thawing required
– Excellent beef flavor and juiciness for a frozen patty
– Cooks quickly and evenly in an air fryer
– Simple, wholesome ingredients
Cons:
– Can be a bit pricey compared to generic frozen burgers
– Some users prefer to add their own seasoning
User Impressions:
Customers consistently rave about the convenience and quality. Many note how easy it is to achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy burger in the air fryer, often mentioning it tastes like it came off a grill. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights.
Trident, Alaskan Salmon Burgers (Frozen), 11.2 Oz
Looking for a healthier, yet equally delicious, burger alternative? Trident’s Wild Alaska Salmon Burgers are an absolute winner, especially when air-fried. Made from wild, sustainably-sourced whole Alaskan salmon fillets with no fillers, these patties are packed with natural Omega-3s and protein. They cook up beautifully in the air fryer, developing a nice, slightly crispy exterior while remaining wonderfully flaky and moist inside. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of fish in a familiar burger format.
Key Features:
– Made with wild, sustainable, ocean-caught whole Alaska Salmon fillets
– No fillers, lightly seasoned with a smoky flavor
– Natural source of Protein (14g) & Omega-3 (980mg) per burger
– Healthy, low-calorie option (120 calories per burger)
– Suitable for grilling, pan frying, and baking, excellent in an air fryer
Pros:
– Delicious and healthy alternative to beef
– Rich in Omega-3s and protein
– Cooks quickly and evenly in an air fryer
– Sustainable sourcing practices
Cons:
– Flavor might not appeal to everyone who prefers traditional beef burgers
– Can be delicate, so handle with care when flipping
User Impressions:
Reviewers love these for their great taste, ease of preparation, and health benefits. Many mention how well they cook in an air fryer, resulting in a perfectly flaky interior and slightly crisp exterior without any fishy smell.
Butterball, Frozen Original Seasoned Turkey Burgers, 1/3 lb.
Butterball brings its expertise in poultry to the frozen burger game with these Original Seasoned Turkey Burgers. If you’re aiming for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor, these are a fantastic choice. They’re pre-seasoned, which takes all the guesswork out of adding flavor, and they cook up beautifully in an air fryer. You’ll get a tender, savory burger that’s significantly lower in fat than traditional beef burgers, making it a smart pick for a balanced diet.
Key Features:
– Includes six 1/3 lb. patties, pre-seasoned
– Ready to go from freezer to grill or skillet (and air fryer!)
– 60% less fat than USDA data for 75% lean/25% fat ground beef
– Expertly seasoned for a savory taste
– American Humane Certified
Pros:
– Leaner and healthier option
– Pre-seasoned for convenience and consistent flavor
– Cooks quickly and easily from frozen
– Versatile for various meal types
Cons:
– Some might find turkey burgers less rich than beef
– Can be prone to drying out if overcooked (like any lean meat)
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the convenience and the fact that these burgers are already seasoned. They often highlight how simple it is to get a satisfying, healthier burger, especially when cooked in an air fryer for a quick dinner.
Air Fryers That Make Your Burgers Sing
While the burger patty is key, a great air fryer truly elevates the experience. These models stand out for their ability to cook frozen foods, including your favorite burgers, to perfection.
Typhur Dome 2 Air Fryer, Extra Large Airfryer with…
The Typhur Dome 2 isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a culinary powerhouse designed to get your food perfectly cooked and on the table faster. Praised by America’s Test Kitchen, its innovative 360° Heating Technology (inspired by professional pizza ovens!) with dual heating elements means your frozen burgers for air fryer cooking will be done up to 30% quicker and more evenly, with less need for flipping. Imagine achieving that ideal crispy exterior and juicy interior without waiting around. Plus, it’s whisper-quiet and even has a unique self-cleaning mode, making cleanup a breeze!
Key Features:
– Recommended by America’s Test Kitchen and voted best large-capacity air fryer
– 360° Heating Technology with dual heating elements for faster, even cooking
– Cooks up to 30% faster than traditional air fryers
– Whisper-quiet operation (55dB)
– 15-in-1 Multifunctional Cooking (includes “Frozen” function)
– Unique Self-Cleaning Mode
– Non-stick ceramic basket
Pros:
– Exceptionally fast and even cooking
– Large capacity for family meals
– Very quiet operation
– Self-cleaning feature is a major convenience
– Versatile with multiple cooking functions
Cons:
– Premium price point
– Larger footprint might require more counter space
User Impressions:
Users are consistently impressed by the speed and efficiency of the Typhur Dome 2. Many highlight its quiet operation and the consistent, excellent results across a variety of foods, including frozen items, making it a top contender for the best frozen burgers for air fryer enthusiasts.
Chefman Air Fryer TurboFry 7-Qt, 6-in-1 High-Powered 450°F…
The Chefman TurboFry 7-Qt Air Fryer is built for speed and versatility, making it a fantastic choice for perfectly cooking your best frozen burgers for air fryer meals. Its supercharged convection power with a high-tech DC motor means it cooks up to 40% faster than other Chefman models, reaching a max temp of 450°F for extra crispy results. What truly stands out is its dedicated “Frozen” function – it expertly defrosts, then crisps, ensuring your frozen patties (or fries!) are cooked to golden-brown perfection every single time. The viewing window and large capacity are just cherries on top!
Key Features:
– Supercharged Convection Power with DC motor (cooks up to 40% faster)
– Max temperature of 450°F for crispier results
– 6-in-1 Versatility: Air Fry, Broil, Dehydrate, Convection Bake, Reheat, and Cook Frozen Foods
– Dedicated “Frozen” function for optimal results
– Space-saving, narrow design with family-sized 7-quart capacity
– Easy-view window to monitor cooking progress
– Nonstick basket and dishwasher-safe wire rack for easy cleanup
Pros:
– Very fast cooking times
– Dedicated “Frozen” function is highly effective
– Large capacity suitable for families
– Easy to monitor food with the viewing window
– Simple to clean
Cons:
– Touchscreen UI can take a little getting used to
– Narrow design might not suit all types of food equally well (though great for burgers)
User Impressions:
Customers love the TurboFry’s speed and how effortlessly it handles frozen foods, making quick meals a reality. The viewing window is a frequently praised feature, allowing users to check on their food without interrupting the cooking process.
Tips for Air Frying Frozen Burgers to Perfection
Even with the best frozen burgers for air fryer cooking and a top-notch appliance, a few simple tips can make all the difference:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s space around each patty for air to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Preheat (Optional but Recommended): While not always required for frozen items, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes can help achieve a better sear.
- Flip Halfway: For even cooking and browning, flip your burgers halfway through the cooking time.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your burger reaches a safe internal temperature (160°F/71°C for beef and turkey; 145°F/63°C for fish).
- Add Cheese at the End: If you want melted cheese, add it during the last minute or two of cooking.
Conclusion
Transforming frozen burgers into a gourmet-style meal in your air fryer is entirely possible with the right products and techniques. Whether you’re craving classic beef, a healthier turkey, or a flavorful salmon patty, the best frozen burgers for air fryer preparation are just a freezer away. Pair them with a high-performance air fryer like the Typhur Dome 2 or the Chefman TurboFry, and you’ll be enjoying quick, delicious, and perfectly cooked meals in no time. Happy air frying!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I put any frozen burger in an air fryer?
A1: Generally, yes! Most frozen burger patties, whether beef, turkey, or veggie, cook well in an air fryer. The circulating hot air is excellent for cooking them evenly and getting a nice crispy exterior.
Q2: Do I need to thaw frozen burgers before air frying?
A2: No, that’s one of the best parts! You can cook frozen burgers straight from the freezer. This convenience is a major advantage of using an air fryer for these types of foods.
Q3: What’s the best temperature and time for air frying frozen burgers?
A3: A good starting point is 375-400°F (190-200°C) for about 12-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the patty and your desired doneness. Always flip them halfway through. Adjust time as needed based on your specific air fryer and burger type.
Q4: How do I know if my frozen burger is cooked through in the air fryer?
A4: The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the burger. Beef and turkey burgers should reach 160°F (71°C), while fish burgers are safe at 145°F (63°C). The exterior should be nicely browned and crispy.
Q5: Can I add cheese to my burger in the air fryer?
A5: Absolutely! For perfectly melted cheese, place a slice on top of the burger during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. This allows it to melt beautifully without burning.
Q6: How can I prevent my frozen burgers from drying out in the air fryer?
A6: While air frying cooks efficiently, lean burgers can dry out if overcooked. Stick to recommended cooking times, use a meat thermometer, and avoid excessively high temperatures for prolonged periods. Flipping halfway also helps.
Q7: What kind of seasoning should I use for frozen burgers in the air fryer?
A7: Many frozen burgers come pre-seasoned (like the Butterball). For unseasoned patties, simple salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of your favorite burger seasoning mix works wonders. Apply seasoning before placing them in the air fryer for best results.