Can Burgers Be Cooked in Air Fryer A Quick Guide to Perfect Results

Yes, burgers can be cooked in an air fryer—and they turn out juicy, evenly seared, and delicious with far less oil than traditional methods. With the right timing and temperature (375°F for 10–12 minutes), air-fried burgers deliver a perfect crust and tender interior, making them a quick, healthy, and hassle-free weeknight option.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryers cook burgers perfectly with crispy exteriors and juicy interiors every time.
• Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and optimal texture in under 10 minutes.
• Use lean ground beef (80/20) to minimize grease and prevent soggy patties.
• Cook at 375°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway for consistent doneness.
• Skip oil sprays—air fryers crisp burgers naturally without added fats.
• Add cheese in the last 2 minutes to melt perfectly without overcooking.
• Rest burgers 2-3 minutes post-cooking to lock in juices before serving.

Can Burgers Be Cooked in Air Fryer? A Quick Guide to Perfect Results

Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, and the thought of firing up the grill or scrubbing a greasy stovetop after cooking burgers feels like a chore. You glance at your air fryer—sitting there, clean and ready—and wonder: Can burgers be cooked in air fryer? If you’ve ever asked yourself that, you’re not alone. Air fryers have exploded in popularity over the past few years, promising crispy, delicious food with less oil and way less mess. But can they really handle one of the ultimate comfort foods: the humble burger?

The short answer is yes—and not just any burgers. With the right technique, you can cook juicy, flavorful burgers in your air fryer that rival those from the grill or stovetop. But here’s the catch: it’s not quite as simple as tossing a patty in and hitting “start.” Timing, temperature, and a few insider tricks make all the difference. As someone who’s experimented with everything from frozen patties to homemade smash burgers in my air fryer, I’ve learned what works—and what doesn’t. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get perfect air fryer burgers every time, whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or just craving a quick bite.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Great Option for Burgers

You might be thinking, “Why bother with the air fryer when I have a grill and a skillet?” Fair question. But the air fryer brings a unique blend of convenience, speed, and consistency that’s hard to beat—especially for home cooks who want great results without the hassle.

Faster Cleanup and Less Mess

Let’s be real: cleaning a grill or a greasy stovetop after cooking burgers can be a nightmare. The air fryer, on the other hand, uses a non-stick basket or tray that wipes down in seconds. No scraping, no degreasing, no soaking pans for hours. I remember the first time I cooked burgers in my air fryer—I was shocked when I realized I could just pop the basket into the dishwasher. Game-changer.

Consistent Cooking, Every Time

Air fryers use convection heat—hot air circulated rapidly around the food. This means your burgers cook evenly from all sides, reducing the risk of overcooked edges and undercooked centers. Unlike a skillet where heat can be uneven or a grill where flare-ups can char one side too much, the air fryer gives you more control. I’ve had nights where I’ve cooked four burgers at once, and each one came out with the same level of doneness—something I can’t always guarantee on the stovetop.

Healthier Cooking with Less Oil

While burgers aren’t exactly a “health food,” cooking them in an air fryer uses significantly less oil than pan-frying or deep-frying. Most recipes call for just a light spray of oil (or even none at all), which cuts down on fat and calories without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the excess fat drips away during cooking, resulting in a leaner patty. My husband, who’s picky about greasiness, actually prefers air fryer burgers because they’re not as oily as pan-seared ones.

Perfect for Small Kitchens or No-Grill Homes

Not everyone has access to an outdoor grill or a spacious kitchen. The air fryer is compact, portable, and works great in apartments, dorms, or RVs. It’s also ideal for cooking burgers year-round—no need to brave the rain or snow just to grill a patty. And if you’re cooking for one or two, you don’t have to heat up a whole grill or stovetop burner.

Pro tip: If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can cook multiple burgers at once (depending on your air fryer size), and they’ll all be ready at the same time. No more juggling batches on the stovetop or waiting for the grill to reheat.

Choosing the Right Burgers for Your Air Fryer

Not all burgers are created equal—and that’s especially true when it comes to air frying. The type of patty you use can make or break your results. Let’s break down the best options and what to avoid.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Patties

Homemade patties give you full control over ingredients, fat content, and seasoning. I love making my own with 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for juiciness. Just mix in a little salt, pepper, and maybe some garlic powder, then form into ¾-inch thick patties. Make a small indentation in the center to prevent bulging during cooking—this keeps them flat and evenly cooked.

Store-bought patties (especially frozen ones) work great too. Brands like Bubba, Applegate, and even grocery store brands cook up nicely in the air fryer. Just make sure they’re not overly thick—anything over 1 inch might cook unevenly. I’ve had success with both frozen and thawed patties, but I prefer thawing them first for more consistent results.

Fat Content Matters

Here’s a golden rule: Don’t go too lean. Ground beef with less than 15% fat (like 90/10) can dry out in the air fryer because it lacks the natural basting effect of fat dripping and sizzling. Stick with 80/20 or 75/25 for the juiciest burgers. I learned this the hard way when I tried cooking 93/7 turkey burgers—they came out dry and crumbly. Now I always check the fat ratio before buying.

Size and Thickness Tips

• Ideal thickness: ¾ to 1 inch. Thicker patties take longer and may cook unevenly.
• Diameter: Should fit comfortably in your air fryer basket with space between patties (usually 4–5 inches).
• For smash burgers: Use a ¼-pound patty and smash it thin (¼ inch) for that classic diner-style crust. Just note: these cook faster, so keep an eye on them.

Alternative Proteins

The air fryer is surprisingly versatile. I’ve cooked:

• Turkey burgers: Use 85/15 ground turkey and add a little olive oil or Worcestershire sauce for moisture.
• Chicken burgers: Ground chicken breast can be dry, so I recommend adding breadcrumbs or an egg to the mix.
• Plant-based patties: Beyond Meat, Impossible, and other vegan burgers work well—just follow package instructions for temperature and time.

Caution: Avoid pre-seasoned or marinated patties with a lot of sugar (like teriyaki or barbecue). They can burn or stick to the basket due to caramelization. Stick to simple seasonings or add sauce after cooking.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Burgers in an Air Fryer

Now for the fun part—actually cooking the burgers. I’ll walk you through a foolproof method that works for most air fryer models (Ninja, Instant Vortex, Cosori, etc.). The key is precision and timing.

Step 1: Prep Your Burgers

• If using frozen patties, thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave (but cook immediately after).
• Season generously with salt, pepper, and any dry rubs. I like a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for kick.
• Optional: Lightly spray or brush the patties with oil (avocado or olive oil). This helps with browning but isn’t required.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Most air fryers benefit from a 3–5 minute preheat at 375°F (190°C). This ensures consistent cooking from the start. I always set a timer—preheating makes a noticeable difference in how evenly the burgers brown.

Step 3: Arrange the Patties

• Place patties in a single layer, leaving at least ½ inch between them for air circulation.
• Don’t overcrowd! Cooking in batches is better than sacrificing quality.
• For even cooking, flip the patties halfway through (more on timing below).

Step 4: Set Time and Temperature

Here’s a general guide (adjust based on your air fryer and patty thickness):

Burgers Type	Temperature	Cook Time (Total)	Internal Temp (Doneness)
1-inch beef patty (frozen)	375°F	12–14 min	130°F (rare), 140°F (med-rare), 160°F (well)
¾-inch beef patty (thawed)	375°F	10–12 min	130°F (rare), 140°F (med-rare), 160°F (well)
Turkey or chicken patty	375°F	12–15 min	165°F (safe minimum)
Smash burger (¼-inch)	400°F	6–8 min	160°F (well)
Plant-based patty	350–375°F	10–12 min	Follow package instructions

Note: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. I keep a digital one in my kitchen—it takes the guesswork out of doneness. For food safety, ground beef should reach 160°F, but many people prefer it at 140°F (medium-rare) for juiciness. Just make sure you’re okay with the risk (I’m not judging—I’ve done it too).

Step 5: Flip and Add Cheese (Optional)

• Flip patties halfway through cooking for even browning.
• For cheeseburgers: Add cheese slices during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Close the basket and let it melt. Pro tip: Sprinkle a few drops of water in the basket to create steam for better melting.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let burgers rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making them juicier. Then, build your burger with buns, toppings, and sauces. I like to toast the buns in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 350°F—adds a nice crunch!

Common mistake: Opening the basket too often. Every time you do, heat escapes and cooking time increases. Only open once to flip and once to add cheese.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the top pitfalls I’ve encountered—and how to fix them.

Burgers Are Too Dry

Cause: Overcooking, lean meat, or not letting them rest.
Fix: Use 80/20 beef, don’t exceed recommended cook times, and always rest for 2+ minutes. If you accidentally overcook, slice the burger and serve it in a sandwich or over a salad to mask dryness.

Uneven Cooking or Soggy Texture

Cause: Overcrowding, not flipping, or using too much oil.
Fix: Give each patty space. Flip halfway. If the basket is too oily, wipe it lightly with a paper towel between batches.

Browning Too Fast or Burning

Cause: High heat, sugary seasonings, or dark patties.
Fix: Reduce temperature to 350°F for thicker patties. Avoid marinades with sugar. If patties are dark (like grass-fed beef), cover them with foil for the last 2 minutes to prevent charring.

Cheese Won’t Melt

Cause: Adding cheese too early or not using steam.
Fix: Add cheese in the last 1–2 minutes. For better melting, sprinkle a few drops of water in the basket and close it for 30 seconds. I’ve also had luck using shredded cheese instead of slices.

Sticking to the Basket

Cause: Not enough oil or low-quality non-stick coating.
Fix: Lightly spray the basket with oil. Use parchment paper liners (but don’t cover the holes). For stubborn residue, soak the basket in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes before scrubbing.

Bonus tip: If you’re cooking multiple batches, wipe the basket with a damp cloth between batches to remove excess fat. This prevents smoke and keeps the next batch from tasting greasy.

Creative Variations and Topping Ideas

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer opens up a world of burger possibilities beyond the classic beef patty.

Flavor-Boosted Patties

• Umami bomb: Mix in 1 tsp soy sauce, ½ tsp Worcestershire, and a dash of fish sauce into the ground beef before forming patties.
• Cheese-stuffed: Place a cube of cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese in the center of the patty before cooking. The cheese melts inside for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or sriracha to the meat mix.

Global-Inspired Burgers

• Greek-style: Use lamb instead of beef, add oregano, and top with tzatziki sauce and sliced cucumbers.
• Asian fusion: Mix ground pork with ginger, scallions, and hoisin sauce. Top with pickled carrots and sriracha mayo.
• Mexican: Add taco seasoning to the beef, top with guacamole, pico de gallo, and queso fresco.

Unique Toppings and Buns

• Air fryer onion rings: Bread and air fry sliced onions at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Crispy and perfect for topping.
• Grilled pineapple: Slice and air fry for 5 minutes at 400°F for a sweet, caramelized topping.
• Alternative buns: Try English muffins, brioche rolls, or even portobello mushrooms for a low-carb option.

Pro idea: Make a “burger bar” for gatherings. Set out cooked patties, toppings, buns, and sauces, and let guests build their own. I did this for a family dinner, and everyone loved the customization.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can (and Should) Cook Burgers in an Air Fryer

So, can burgers be cooked in air fryer? Absolutely—and they can be fantastic. The air fryer isn’t just a gadget; it’s a tool that can deliver juicy, flavorful burgers with less mess, less oil, and more consistency than traditional methods. Whether you’re cooking frozen patties on a busy night, experimenting with homemade recipes, or trying out plant-based alternatives, the air fryer rises to the challenge.

Of course, it’s not perfect. You’ll need to adjust times and temps based on your model and preferences, and there’s a learning curve. But once you nail it—like I did after a few trial runs—you’ll wonder why you ever used anything else. I now cook 90% of my burgers in the air fryer, and my family hasn’t complained once.

Remember the key takeaways: choose the right patty, preheat the air fryer, flip halfway, use a thermometer, and don’t overcrowd. With these tips, you’ll get perfect air fryer burgers every time—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in under 15 minutes.

So go ahead. Toss that next burger in the air fryer. You might just discover your new favorite way to cook. And when someone asks, “Can burgers be cooked in air fryer?” you can confidently say, “Yes—and they’re amazing.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can burgers be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, burgers can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer! The circulating hot air ensures even browning and juicy results with less oil than traditional methods.

How long do you cook burgers in an air fryer?

For medium doneness, cook 4-5 minutes per side at 375°F (190°C). Adjust time based on patty thickness and desired internal temperature (160°F/71°C for beef).

Do air fryer burgers taste as good as grilled burgers?

Air fryer burgers develop a flavorful crust similar to grilling, with slightly less char. For smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke to your seasoning or finish with a quick sear.

Can you cook frozen burgers in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry frozen burgers at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes per side. No need to thaw—just increase cook time slightly and ensure they reach 160°F (71°C) internally.

What’s the best way to keep air fryer burgers juicy?

Use 80/20 ground beef (lean-to-fat ratio) and avoid overmixing. Resist pressing patties during cooking to retain juices. Rest burgers 2-3 minutes after air frying.

Do you need to flip burgers in an air fryer?

Yes, flip burgers halfway through cooking for even browning. Most air fryer models require manual flipping, but some newer units have rotating baskets for automatic rotation.