Can You Make Ground Beef in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can make ground beef in the air fryer—it’s a fast, mess-free method that delivers evenly browned, juicy results in under 15 minutes. Simply break the meat into chunks, season, and cook at 375°F (190°C) with occasional stirring for perfectly crumbled beef ideal for tacos, pasta, or stir-fries.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook ground beef in an air fryer—it’s fast, easy, and requires minimal cleanup.
• Break meat into small clumps for even cooking and faster browning.
• Use 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, stirring once for perfect texture.
• No oil needed—lean ground beef releases enough fat during cooking.
• Ideal for meal prep—batch cook and store for tacos, pasta, or casseroles.
• Drain excess fat mid-cook by tilting the basket or using a spoon.

Can You Make Ground Beef in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Let’s be honest: weeknights are chaotic. Between work, family, and the endless to-do list, cooking dinner can feel like climbing a mountain. That’s why we’re all hunting for shortcuts that don’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition. Enter the air fryer—the kitchen gadget that’s promised to make everything from chicken nuggets to Brussels sprouts taste like they’ve been deep-fried, but without the oil. But can you make ground beef in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and it might just change how you approach ground beef forever.

As someone who’s burned more than one batch of stovetop beef while multitasking, I was skeptical. Could this countertop wonder really handle ground beef without turning it into a dry, crumbly mess? After testing it out in my own kitchen (with a few trial runs and a very forgiving family), I’ve got the lowdown. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a hungry crowd, or just trying to cut down on cleanup, cooking ground beef in the air fryer is not only possible—it’s surprisingly efficient. Let’s dive into how it works, why it works, and how you can do it right at home.

Why Cook Ground Beef in the Air Fryer?

You might be wondering: why switch from the trusty skillet to the air fryer? After all, stovetop cooking is what we’ve always done. But the air fryer brings some real advantages to the table—especially when it comes to ground beef. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about consistency, cleanliness, and even health.

Even Cooking Without Constant Attention

One of the biggest frustrations with stovetop ground beef is that it requires constant stirring. If you look away for even a minute, you risk scorching the bottom or ending up with unevenly cooked meat. The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures that heat is distributed evenly, so your ground beef browns consistently without needing to be babysat. No more hovering over the stove!

Less Oil, Less Mess

Traditional stovetop cooking often requires a splash of oil to prevent sticking and add flavor. But with the air fryer, you can skip the oil entirely—especially if you’re using leaner ground beef (90/10 or 85/15). The fat from the beef renders out naturally, and the perforated basket allows excess grease to drip away. That means less mess on your stovetop, fewer dishes to wash, and a cleaner kitchen overall.

Healthier, Leaner Results

Because the air fryer drains away excess fat, you end up with leaner, less greasy ground beef. That’s a win for anyone watching their fat intake or trying to eat cleaner. Plus, you’re not adding extra oil, so the calories stay lower. It’s a small change, but over time, it adds up. I noticed that my tacos and pasta sauces tasted just as rich—but felt lighter—when I used air-fried beef.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re prepping meals for the week, the air fryer is a game-changer. You can cook multiple batches in one go (depending on your air fryer size), and the meat stays fresh for days in the fridge or freezes beautifully. No more reheating a greasy skillet of beef that’s lost its texture. Just portion it out, store it, and use it in tacos, chili, or stir-fries later in the week.

How to Make Ground Beef in the Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)

Ready to try it yourself? Cooking ground beef in the air fryer is simpler than you think. The key is in the technique—breaking up the meat properly, choosing the right temperature, and giving it time to brown. Here’s how I do it, with a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.

Step 1: Choose Your Ground Beef

Not all ground beef is created equal. For air frying, I recommend using 85/15 or 90/10 (lean-to-fat ratio). The fat helps the meat brown and keeps it from drying out. If you go too lean (like 93/7), you might end up with a drier texture. That said, I’ve successfully used 93/7—just added a light spray of olive oil to the basket to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheating is optional but highly recommended. It helps the beef start browning immediately, reducing cooking time and improving texture. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3-5 minutes. This is especially helpful if you’re cooking a large batch.

Step 3: Break Up the Meat

Place your ground beef in the air fryer basket. Don’t just dump it in a clump—break it up with your hands or a fork into small, loose chunks. This is crucial. If the meat is too dense, the outside will overcook before the inside is done. Think of it like fluffing rice—you want even exposure to hot air.

Step 4: Cook and Stir

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. After 5 minutes, pause the air fryer, open the basket, and use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to break up any remaining clumps and flip the beef. This ensures even browning. If your batch is large, you may need to do this twice. The goal is to see the beef turn from pink to brown with no raw spots.

Step 5: Check for Doneness and Drain Fat

Once the beef is fully browned (about 10-12 minutes total), remove it from the basket. Use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a bowl, allowing excess fat to drain. If you’re using very fatty beef (80/20), you might want to blot it with a paper towel. But honestly, the air fryer does a great job of draining fat on its own.

Step 6: Season or Store

Now it’s ready to use! Season it with salt, pepper, garlic, or your favorite spices. Or, if you’re meal prepping, let it cool and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. I like to divide it into 1-cup portions—perfect for tacos or pasta sauce.

Pro tip: If you’re cooking a large batch (over 2 lbs), consider doing it in two rounds. Overloading the basket can lead to uneven cooking and longer cook times.

Best Air Fryer Settings and Timing for Ground Beef

One of the biggest questions people have is: what temperature and time should I use? The good news is, it’s pretty consistent across most air fryer models. But there are a few variables to consider—like batch size, fat content, and how you plan to use the beef.

Standard Settings for 1 lb (450g) of Ground Beef

• Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
• Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
• Stirring: Once at the 5-minute mark
• Fat Drain: Let excess grease drip through the basket

These settings work for most 3.5- to 5.8-quart air fryers. If you’re using a smaller model (2-3 quarts), you may need to cook in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding.

Adjusting for Batch Size

The more beef you add, the longer it takes to cook—and the more important it is to stir. Here’s a quick guide:

Batch Size	Temperature	Cook Time	Stirring Frequency	Notes
1 lb (450g)	375°F (190°C)	8–12 min	Once (at 5 min)	Ideal for most recipes
2 lbs (900g)	375°F (190°C)	12–15 min	Twice (at 5 & 10 min)	Break into smaller pieces before cooking
3+ lbs (1.3+ kg)	375°F (190°C)	15–18 min	Twice (at 5 & 10 min)	Best done in 2 batches for even results

Lean vs. Fatty Ground Beef

Leaner beef (90/10 or higher) cooks slightly faster and may brown more evenly. But it can dry out if overcooked. Fatty beef (80/20) takes a bit longer but stays juicier. If using lean beef, you can add a light spray of oil to the basket or meat for extra moisture. I’ve found that 85/15 is the sweet spot—great flavor, minimal dryness.

Using Frozen Ground Beef

Yes, you can cook frozen ground beef in the air fryer! It will take longer (about 18–22 minutes at 375°F), and you’ll need to stir more often to break up clumps as it thaws. But it’s a lifesaver when you forget to defrost. Just make sure to break it up as it softens to ensure even cooking.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with a foolproof method, things can go wrong. I’ve made my share of mistakes—dry beef, undercooked centers, even a smoky kitchen from a greasy basket. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When you pile too much beef into the air fryer, the heat can’t circulate properly. The result? Uneven cooking, longer cook times, and some pieces that are overdone while others are still pink. Solution: Cook in smaller batches. If you have a large air fryer, great! But if not, split your meat into 1-lb portions. It’s worth the extra time for better results.

Not Breaking Up the Meat Enough

Ground beef naturally clumps together, especially when cold. If you don’t break it up before and during cooking, you’ll end up with dense, undercooked chunks in the middle. Solution: Break the meat into small, loose pieces with your hands before adding it to the basket. Then, stir thoroughly at the halfway point. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula—metal can scratch non-stick baskets.

Skipping the Stir

Stirring isn’t optional—it’s essential. The air fryer circulates hot air, but if the beef isn’t flipped, the bottom will cook faster than the top. Solution: Set a timer for 5 minutes and stir every batch. Even if you’re busy, this 30-second pause makes a huge difference.

Using the Wrong Temperature

Too hot (400°F+), and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low (300°F), and it steams instead of browns. Solution: Stick to 375°F for most ground beef. If you’re cooking something like meatballs or patties, you can go lower (350°F) for more even cooking.

Not Draining Fat (or Draining Too Much)

Too much fat can make your dishes greasy. But draining all the fat removes flavor. Solution: Let the air fryer do the work. The basket design naturally drains excess fat. Use a slotted spoon when transferring to a bowl. If you’re using very fatty beef, you can blot with a paper towel—but don’t overdo it.

Forgetting to Clean the Basket

Ground beef can leave behind sticky residue, especially if it’s fatty. If you don’t clean it after each use, it can smoke or affect the taste of future batches. Solution: Wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water after each use. For stuck-on bits, soak in hot water for 10 minutes. Avoid abrasive scrubbers on non-stick surfaces.

Creative Ways to Use Air-Fried Ground Beef

Now that you’ve mastered cooking ground beef in the air fryer, what can you do with it? The answer: almost anything you’d use stovetop beef for—and a few things you might not have considered. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it.

Tacos and Burritos

Air-fried ground beef is perfect for tacos. It’s evenly browned, less greasy, and easy to season. I like to add taco seasoning, a splash of lime juice, and a bit of water after cooking to create a saucy, flavorful filling. Serve with soft tortillas, shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa. For burritos, mix in rice, black beans, and cheese, then roll and air fry for 3 minutes to crisp the tortilla.

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

Instead of simmering ground beef for 30 minutes, use air-fried beef in your pasta sauce. Sauté onions and garlic in a saucepan, add canned tomatoes, herbs, and your pre-cooked beef. Simmer for 10 minutes—just enough to blend the flavors. It’s faster, cleaner, and tastes just as rich. Bonus: no splatters on the stove!

Stuffed Peppers and Bell Peppers

Mix air-fried beef with rice, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Stuff into halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and air fry for 12-15 minutes at 375°F. The peppers come out tender, the filling is flavorful, and cleanup is a breeze. I’ve even added corn and black beans for a Tex-Mex twist.

Meatballs and Sliders

Yes, you can make meatballs in the air fryer! Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, and herbs. Form into small balls and air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway. They’re juicy, evenly cooked, and perfect for sliders or spaghetti. For a twist, try adding feta or sun-dried tomatoes.

Breakfast Hash

Combine air-fried beef with diced potatoes, onions, and peppers. Air fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, stirring once. Top with a fried or poached egg for a hearty breakfast. I love adding smoked paprika and a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Meal Prep Bowls

Divide air-fried beef into containers with rice, quinoa, or couscous. Add roasted veggies, avocado, and a sauce (like teriyaki or tahini). These bowls stay fresh for 3-4 days and are perfect for grab-and-go lunches. I usually make 4-5 at a time on Sunday.

Is the Air Fryer Better Than the Stovetop for Ground Beef?

So, is the air fryer a better option than the stovetop? It depends on what you value most: speed, convenience, health, or flavor. Let’s break it down.

Speed and Convenience

The stovetop is faster for small batches (under 1 lb) because you don’t need to preheat. But for larger batches or meal prep, the air fryer wins. You can set it and forget it, with less stirring and no splatter. Plus, no need to monitor the heat—just set the timer.

Cleanliness

No contest: the air fryer is cleaner. No greasy stovetop, no splatter on the backsplash, no lingering smell. Just a quick wipe of the basket and you’re done. I used to dread cooking ground beef on the stove—now I don’t mind it at all.

Health and Fat Content

The air fryer drains more fat naturally, resulting in leaner meat. If you’re health-conscious, this is a big win. Stovetop cooking often requires extra oil, and the meat retains more fat. But if you love the richness of fatty beef, the stovetop might still be your go-to.

Flavor and Texture

Stovetop beef can develop a deeper sear, especially if you use a cast-iron skillet. Some people prefer that “restaurant-style” flavor. But the air fryer gives you consistent browning and a slightly crispier texture—great for tacos or nachos. It’s not better or worse, just different.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryers use less energy than a gas or electric stove, especially for small batches. They heat up quickly and shut off automatically. Over time, that can save on your energy bill.

In the end, I use both methods—depending on my mood and what I’m cooking. But for weeknight dinners and meal prep, the air fryer has become my first choice. It’s reliable, easy, and makes cleanup almost effortless.

So, can you make ground beef in the air fryer? Absolutely. And once you try it, you might wonder why you ever cooked it any other way. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or just looking for a cleaner kitchen, the air fryer delivers. Give it a shot—you might just find yourself reaching for it every time you cook ground beef.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make ground beef in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook ground beef in the air fryer! It’s a quick, mess-free method that delivers evenly browned meat with minimal oil.

How long does it take to cook ground beef in the air fryer?

Cooking ground beef in the air fryer typically takes 8–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on the quantity and fat content. Stir halfway through for even browning.

Do I need to add oil when cooking ground beef in the air fryer?

No, you don’t need to add oil—especially if using 80/20 or higher-fat ground beef. The air fryer’s circulation will crisp the meat naturally. Leaner beef may benefit from a light spray.

Can you cook frozen ground beef in the air fryer?

Yes, but it will take longer (about 15–20 minutes at 375°F). Break up the frozen block early and stir frequently to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What’s the best way to avoid drying out ground beef in the air fryer?

Use medium heat (350–375°F), avoid overcooking, and stir halfway. For leaner beef, add a splash of broth or sauce to retain moisture while cooking.

Can you use the air fryer for ground beef recipes like tacos or pasta sauce?

Definitely! The air fryer is perfect for pre-cooking ground beef for tacos, chili, or pasta sauce. Just season it before cooking and drain excess fat if needed.