Can You Put Burgers in the Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can absolutely cook burgers in the air fryer—and they come out juicy, evenly seared, and ready in under 10 minutes. With no flipping required and minimal cleanup, air fryer burgers are a game-changer for quick, delicious weeknight meals.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook burgers in the air fryer for a quick, juicy, and evenly seared result.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure consistent cooking and a perfect crust every time.
• Use 375°F (190°C) for ideal doneness—adjust time for rare, medium, or well-done patties.
• Flip halfway through for even browning and to prevent uneven cooking or dry spots.
• Skip the oil spray—beef fat renders naturally, reducing mess and extra calories.
• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety and perfect doneness.
• Try frozen burgers—cook 5–7 minutes longer, no thawing needed for convenience.

Can You Put Burgers in the Air Fryer? The Ultimate Guide

Let me take you back to a rainy Sunday afternoon. I was craving a juicy, flavorful burger—no compromises. But the idea of firing up the grill felt like too much effort, and the stovetop meant dealing with smoke and splatter. Then it hit me: can you put burgers in the air fryer? I’d used my air fryer for fries, chicken wings, and even salmon, but a burger? It seemed too good to be true. After a little trial, error, and a lot of happy taste-testing, I can confidently say: yes, you absolutely can. And not just can—it might just be the best way to cook a burger at home.

If you’ve ever stood over a hot grill, flipping burgers while dodging grease spatters, or tried to get a perfect sear on the stovetop only to end up with a dry, overcooked patty, you’re not alone. The air fryer changes the game. It’s fast, mess-free, and delivers that golden-brown crust we all love—without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking fresh or frozen, beef or plant-based, the air fryer can handle it. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking burgers in the air fryer, from choosing the right patty to nailing the perfect cook time. No hype, just real results from someone who’s been there, spatula in hand.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Burgers

How the Air Fryer Works (And Why It’s Perfect for Burgers)

Think of your air fryer as a mini convection oven. It uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly, creating a crispy exterior while locking in moisture. Unlike deep frying, which can leave burgers greasy and heavy, or grilling, which requires constant attention, the air fryer gives you consistent results with minimal effort. The key? That hot air surrounds the patty from all sides, searing the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

When you ask, “Can you put burgers in the air fryer?”, the answer is rooted in science. The Maillard reaction—the chemical process that gives browned food its delicious flavor—happens beautifully in the air fryer. Plus, excess fat drips away during cooking, making your burger leaner without sacrificing taste. It’s like having a grill, oven, and fryer all in one compact appliance.

Benefits Over Traditional Methods

• Speed: No preheating the grill or waiting for the pan to get hot. Most air fryers heat up in 3–5 minutes.
• Cleanliness: No splatter on your stovetop or smoke filling your kitchen. Just a quick wipe of the basket.
• Consistency: Whether you’re cooking one burger or four, each one turns out evenly cooked.
• Versatility: Works with fresh, frozen, beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based patties.
• Healthier: Less oil needed, and fat drips away—great for calorie-conscious eaters.

Here’s a real-world example: Last week, I had guests over and needed to cook six burgers in under 20 minutes. I used the air fryer, cooked them in two batches, and every patty was perfectly seared on the outside and juicy inside. My friend, who usually prefers grilled burgers, said, “This might be better.” High praise from a grill purist!

Choosing the Right Burger Patties for the Air Fryer

Fresh vs. Frozen: What Works Best?

One of the best things about air frying burgers? You can use either fresh or frozen patties—no thawing required. But there are a few nuances to keep in mind.

Fresh patties are ideal if you’re making them from scratch or buying them from the butcher. They cook faster and develop a better crust because they’re not icy. I like to use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for the juiciest results. Too lean, and the burger dries out; too fatty, and it shrinks excessively. Shape them to fit your air fryer basket—about 4 inches wide and ¾ inch thick. Pro tip: make a slight indentation in the center to prevent bulging during cooking.

Frozen patties are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Brands like Bubba Burger or MorningStar work great. The key is spacing—don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate, or the patties will steam instead of sear. I’ve found that frozen burgers take about 2–3 minutes longer than fresh, but they still come out tender and flavorful. Just avoid stacking them. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches.

Beef, Turkey, Chicken, or Plant-Based?

Not all burgers are created equal—and the air fryer handles each differently.

• Beef: The gold standard. 80/20 ground beef gives you that rich, juicy texture. Aim for medium-rare (130–135°F) or medium (140–145°F). Overcooking is the enemy.
• Turkey: Leaner, so it cooks faster and dries out more easily. Use 93/7 turkey or add a little olive oil to the patty. Cook to 165°F internal temp.
• Chicken: Similar to turkey—lean and quick-cooking. Great for meal prep. I like to season with garlic, paprika, and a touch of lemon zest.
• Plant-based: Brands like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger work surprisingly well. They crisp up nicely and hold their shape. Just don’t overcook—they can turn rubbery. Follow package directions, usually 6–8 minutes at 360°F.

One thing I learned the hard way: not all plant-based patties are equal. I tried a cheaper store brand once, and it fell apart in the air fryer. Stick to reputable brands, and you’ll be fine.

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

Preparing the Patties (Simple Tips for Success)

Before you even touch the air fryer, prep your patties right. For fresh burgers:

1. Use cold meat (keeps the fat from melting too early).
2. Season just before cooking—salt draws out moisture if applied too early.
3. Handle gently. Overworking the meat makes the burger tough.
4. Make a thumbprint in the center to prevent bulging.

For frozen patties, no prep needed—just remove from packaging and place in the basket. I always lightly spray the patties with oil (avocado or olive) to help them brown. It’s not necessary, but it gives that restaurant-quality crust.

Cooking Times and Temperatures (The Golden Rules)

Here’s the magic formula I’ve tested and tweaked over dozens of batches:

Burger Type	Preheat?	Temperature	Cook Time (Fresh)	Cook Time (Frozen)	Internal Temp
Beef (80/20)	Yes (3–5 min)	375°F	6–8 min (flip halfway)	8–10 min (flip halfway)	135°F (med-rare)
Turkey	Yes	375°F	5–6 min	7–8 min	165°F
Chicken	Yes	375°F	5–6 min	7–8 min	165°F
Plant-Based	No	360°F	6–7 min	7–8 min	Follow package

Key tips:

• Preheat your air fryer for best results—especially with fresh patties. A hot basket = better sear.
• Flip halfway for even cooking. Use tongs, not a spatula—patty stays intact.
• Don’t overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed. Air circulation is crucial.
• Use a meat thermometer for precision. I use a digital probe—it’s a game-changer.
• Add cheese in the last 1–2 minutes so it melts perfectly.

I once forgot to flip my burgers and ended up with one side overcooked and the other underdone. Lesson learned: flip, flip, flip!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Burgers continue to cook after removal. Pull them 5°F below target temp.
• Pressing the patty: Never press down with a spatula. You’re squeezing out the juices!
• Skipping the preheat: A cold basket leads to steaming, not searing.
• Using too much oil: A light spray is enough. Too much can cause smoke.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Air Fryer Burger Ideas

Juicy Lucy, Sliders, and Stuffed Burgers

Want to take your air fryer burgers to the next level? Try these fun variations:

• Juicy Lucy: Mix shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack) into the center of a beef patty. Seal edges well. Cook at 375°F for 8–9 minutes. Warning: it’s hot inside—let it rest 2 minutes before biting!
• Sliders: Use small 2-ounce patties. Cook at 375°F for 4–5 minutes. Perfect for parties.
• Stuffed burgers: Mix cooked bacon, mushrooms, or jalapeños into the meat before shaping. Adds flavor and moisture.

I made stuffed mushroom burgers for my book club, and everyone asked for the recipe. The air fryer kept them moist without drying out the mushrooms.

Toppings and Buns: Air Fryer Edition

Don’t forget the buns! You can toast them right in the air fryer:

• Cut buns in half, place cut-side up in the basket.
• Toast at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. Add butter or garlic spread for extra flavor.

For toppings:

• Onions: Slice thin, toss with oil, and air fry at 400°F for 5–6 minutes until caramelized.
• Mushrooms: Slice and cook at 375°F for 6–7 minutes.
• Bacon: Lay flat in basket, cook at 360°F for 6–8 minutes. Crispy and ready to crumble on your burger.

One of my favorite combos: a beef burger with air-fried caramelized onions, blue cheese, and arugula on a toasted brioche bun. Heaven in a bite.

Troubleshooting and Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Burgers

When Things Go Wrong (And How to Fix It)

Even with the best intentions, things can go sideways. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

• Burger is dry: You probably overcooked it. Use a meat thermometer. Try 80/20 beef next time.
• Patty sticks to basket: Spray the basket with oil or use parchment paper (air fryer-safe kind).
• Uneven cooking: Flip halfway and ensure patties aren’t touching.
• No crust: Your air fryer might not be hot enough. Preheat longer or increase temp by 25°F.
• Smoke: Too much fat dripping? Line the bottom with foil (but not blocking airflow).

I once tried cooking a 1-inch thick patty at 375°F and it took 12 minutes—way too long. Thinner patties (¾ inch) are better for air frying.

Pro Tips from a Real-World Cook

• Batch cook: Make a big batch of patties, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Ready to air fry anytime.
• Seasoning mix: Try 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and ½ tsp black pepper per pound of meat.
• Rest the burger: Let it sit 2–3 minutes after cooking. Juices redistribute.
• Clean the basket: Soak in warm, soapy water after use. Non-stick coatings last longer.
• Experiment with temps: Some air fryers run hot. Test with one patty first.

One of my favorite tricks: mix Worcestershire sauce into the beef before shaping. Adds a savory depth you can’t get from seasoning alone.

Final Thoughts: Why Air Fryer Burgers Are Worth the Hype

So, can you put burgers in the air fryer? Absolutely. And after cooking hundreds of patties—fresh, frozen, beef, turkey, plant-based—I can say it’s not just possible, it’s better in many ways. The air fryer delivers speed, convenience, and consistent results that rival (or beat) grilling and stovetop cooking. No smoke, no mess, no stress.

Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick dinner, a college student with limited kitchen access, or someone who just wants a juicy burger without the hassle, the air fryer is your new best friend. It’s not magic—but it sure feels like it when you bite into a perfectly seared, juicy burger with minimal cleanup.

Give it a try tonight. Grab a pack of ground beef, shape a patty, season it simply, and let your air fryer do the rest. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And once you taste that first bite—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with all the flavor locked in—you’ll wonder why you ever cooked burgers any other way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put burgers in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook burgers in the air fryer! It’s a quick, mess-free method that delivers juicy patties with a crispy exterior in under 15 minutes.

How long do you cook burgers in the air fryer?

For medium doneness, cook 1/4-pound beef patties at 375°F (190°C) for 9–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Adjust time based on thickness and desired doneness.

Do air fryer burgers taste as good as grilled ones?

Air fryer burgers develop a delicious sear and retain moisture, though they lack the smoky flavor of grilling. For best results, brush with oil or butter before cooking to enhance crispiness.

Can you cook frozen burgers in the air fryer?

Yes! Cook frozen burgers at 360°F (182°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. No need to thaw—just add 2–3 minutes to the cook time compared to fresh patties.

What’s the best way to prevent burgers from drying out in the air fryer?

Use ground beef with at least 15–20% fat (like 80/20 blend) and avoid overcooking. Baste with a little oil or broth halfway through for extra moisture.

Can you cook burger patties and buns together in the air fryer?

Cook patties first, then toast the buns during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Place buns in a separate layer or use a silicone liner to avoid sogginess.