Can I Cook a Hamburger in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can absolutely cook a hamburger in the air fryer—it’s a fast, easy, and healthier way to achieve juicy, evenly cooked patties with crispy edges. With no flipping required and cleanup a breeze, the air fryer delivers delicious results in under 15 minutes, making it a game-changer for weeknight meals.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook hamburgers in an air fryer for quick, juicy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for even cooking and perfect sear.
• Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal flavor and moisture retention.
• Cook 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for medium doneness (160°F internal temp).
• Skip the oil spray—air fryers crisp burgers without added fat.
• Toast buns in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to enhance texture.

Can I Cook a Hamburger in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like a juicy, perfectly cooked hamburger. The sizzle of the patty hitting a hot surface, the aroma of meat and seasonings filling the air, and that first bite with all the fixings. But what if you could get that same satisfying result without firing up the grill or dealing with a messy stovetop? That’s where the air fryer comes in. If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, staring at your air fryer and wondering, “Can I cook a hamburger in the air fryer?”, you’re not alone. It’s a question that pops up more often than you’d think, especially as air fryers become a staple in modern kitchens.

When I first got my air fryer, I was excited to try everything—fries, chicken wings, even hard-boiled eggs. But burgers? That felt like a stretch. I’d heard mixed things: some people swore by it, others said the texture just wasn’t the same. So I decided to test it myself. After a few trials (and a few slightly overcooked patties), I discovered that yes, you absolutely can cook a hamburger in the air fryer—and when done right, it’s fast, convenient, and surprisingly delicious. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who hates cleaning a greasy pan, this method has real potential to become your go-to burger hack.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Hamburgers?

The idea of cooking a hamburger in the air fryer might sound unconventional at first, especially if you’re used to grilling or pan-frying. But once you understand the benefits, it starts to make a lot of sense. The air fryer isn’t just for reheating frozen snacks—it’s a versatile appliance that can handle fresh, raw meats with ease, including ground beef patties.

Speed and Convenience

One of the biggest perks of using an air fryer is how quickly it heats up and cooks food. Unlike an oven, which can take 10–15 minutes to preheat, most air fryers are ready to go in under 5 minutes. That means you can go from craving a burger to eating one in less than 20 minutes—perfect for those “I need dinner now” moments. No need to wait for the grill to get hot or worry about flare-ups from dripping fat.

Less Mess, Less Cleanup

If you’ve ever cooked burgers on the stovetop, you know the drill: splattering grease, smoke alarms going off, and a stovetop that needs a deep clean afterward. The air fryer contains all that mess inside a basket. Most models have non-stick surfaces that wipe clean easily, and many are dishwasher-safe. No more scrubbing pans or dealing with lingering burger smell in your kitchen.

Healthier Cooking Option

Air frying uses hot air circulation instead of oil, which means your burgers cook with little to no added fat. The excess grease from the ground beef drips down into the basket, leaving you with a leaner patty. While it’s not “low-fat” by any means, it’s definitely a healthier alternative to deep-frying or even pan-frying with oil. Plus, you can use leaner ground beef (like 90/10) without sacrificing moisture—thanks to the even heat distribution.

Perfect for Small Spaces

Living in an apartment with no outdoor space? Or maybe you’re in a dorm room with limited cooking options? The air fryer is a game-changer. It’s compact, doesn’t require ventilation like a grill, and can be stored easily. You can cook a full-sized burger right on your countertop without needing a backyard or a gas connection.

Consistent Results

One thing I noticed after cooking multiple batches: the air fryer delivers very consistent results. Once you nail the timing and temperature, every burger comes out the same—no undercooked centers or burnt edges. That’s especially helpful if you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week.

Choosing the Right Hamburger Patties for Air Frying

Not all burgers are created equal—and that goes for the patties too. The type of ground beef, fat content, size, and shape all play a role in how well your burger cooks in the air fryer. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting or shaping your patties.

Fat Content: 80/20 vs. Leaner Blends

This is a big one. I’ve tried everything from 93/7 (very lean) to 70/30 (very fatty) in my air fryer, and the sweet spot is 80/20—80% lean meat, 20% fat. That fat is essential for flavor and juiciness, and it helps keep the patty from drying out during air frying. Leaner blends (90/10 or higher) tend to shrink more and can become dry or crumbly. If you’re using lean meat, consider adding a little olive oil, egg, or breadcrumbs to the mix to help bind it and retain moisture.

Patties vs. Pre-Made Frozen Burgers

You can absolutely use pre-made frozen patties—they work great! Just make sure they’re not too thick (more than 1 inch), as they may cook unevenly. I’ve had success with brands like Applegate and ButcherBox frozen burgers. For fresh patties, I recommend shaping them by hand. Use about 6 oz of meat per patty (about ¾ cup), and press them gently—don’t overwork the meat, or they’ll turn tough.

Size and Thickness Matter

Air fryers work best with thinner patties (½ to ¾ inch thick). Thicker burgers take longer to cook and may end up overcooked on the outside while still undercooked in the center. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly. A good trick? Use a burger press or even a small bowl to shape them consistently.

Seasoning Tips

Don’t skip the seasoning! I like to keep it simple: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Mix the seasoning into the meat before shaping, or sprinkle it on top just before cooking. Avoid using too much liquid seasoning (like Worcestershire sauce) directly on the outside—it can drip off and cause smoke or uneven browning. If you want to add sauce, do it after cooking or use a dry rub instead.

Shaping for Air Fryer Success

Here’s a pro tip: make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. Burgers tend to puff up in the middle when cooking, which can lead to uneven doneness. The indentation helps them cook flat and ensures even contact with the hot air. Plus, it gives your cheese a nice little pocket to melt into!

How to Cook a Hamburger in the Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)

Now for the fun part—actually cooking your burger. I’ve tested this method with multiple air fryer models (Ninja, Cosori, Instant Vortex), and the process is pretty consistent across the board. Here’s my go-to method for perfectly air-fried hamburgers every time.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the patties start cooking immediately and helps achieve a nice sear. Some models don’t have a preheat function, but you can simply run it empty for a few minutes before adding the burgers.

Prepare the Patties

While the air fryer heats up, shape your patties (6 oz each, ¾ inch thick), season them, and make that thumb indentation in the center. Place them on a plate and let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly—cold patties straight from the fridge can lead to a temperature imbalance inside.

Arrange in the Basket

Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil (optional, but helps with browning). Place the patties in a single layer—don’t overcrowd! Most air fryers can fit 2–3 burgers at a time. If you’re cooking more, do it in batches. Overlapping patties will steam instead of sear, and they won’t cook evenly.

Cook the Burgers

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6 minutes. Then, flip the patties and cook for another 4–6 minutes, depending on your desired doneness:

• Rare: 4 minutes total (6 min first side, 4 min second)
• Medium-rare: 5–6 minutes second side
• Medium: 6–7 minutes second side
• Well-done: 8+ minutes second side

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The internal temperature should reach:

• 125°F (52°C) – rare
• 135°F (57°C) – medium-rare
• 145°F (63°C) – medium
• 160°F (71°C) – well-done

Note: Ground beef should be cooked to at least 160°F for food safety, even though some prefer it at 145°F. I personally go for medium (145°F) to balance juiciness and safety.

Add Cheese (Optional)

If you want a cheeseburger, add a slice of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack) during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Close the basket and let it melt—no flipping needed. The residual heat will do the work.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the burgers rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, so you don’t lose all that flavor in the first bite. Then, toast your buns (you can do this in the air fryer too—2 minutes at 350°F), add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong when air frying burgers. I’ve made every mistake in the book—overcrowding, underseasoning, overcooking—and learned how to fix them. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. If your patties are touching or stacked, they’ll steam instead of sear. The hot air needs to circulate around each burger for that crispy exterior and juicy interior. Always cook in a single layer. If you have a small air fryer, cook in batches—it’s worth the extra 10 minutes.

Not Preheating

Skipping preheat leads to longer cook times and less browning. Think of it like starting a pan on a cold stove—it just doesn’t work as well. A quick 3–5 minute preheat makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.

Overcooking

Air fryers cook fast, and it’s easy to go from “medium” to “overdone” in just 1–2 minutes. Set a timer and check the temperature. Remember: carryover cooking will raise the internal temp by 5–10°F after removing from the air fryer.

Using Too Lean Ground Beef

As mentioned earlier, lean meat dries out quickly. If you only have 93/7, mix in 1 tsp of olive oil or 1 tbsp of breadcrumbs per patty. Or, baste with a little butter or oil halfway through cooking.

Not Flipping

Flipping ensures even cooking and browning on both sides. Some people skip it, but you’ll end up with one side that’s perfect and the other that’s pale and undercooked. Flip at the halfway mark for best results.

Ignoring the Drip Tray

Burger fat collects in the basket and drip tray. If you’re cooking multiple batches, empty the fat between rounds. Excess grease can smoke or even cause a small flare-up in extreme cases.

Toppings, Buns, and Serving Suggestions

A great burger isn’t just about the patty—it’s the whole package. Here’s how to turn your air-fried burger into a restaurant-quality meal without any extra effort.

Toasting Buns in the Air Fryer

Yes, you can toast your buns in the air fryer! Place them cut-side up in the basket and cook at 350°F for 1–2 minutes. They come out warm, slightly crispy, and ready to hold all your toppings without getting soggy.

Classic Toppings That Work Great

• Lettuce: Crisp iceberg or romaine
• Tomato: Sliced thin to prevent slipping
• Onion: Raw red onion or quick-pickled onions
• Pickles: Dill or bread-and-butter
• Cheese: Melted cheddar, Swiss, blue cheese, or American
• Sauce: Ketchup, mustard, mayo, or special sauce (mix 2 tbsp mayo, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp pickle relish)

Creative Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try these fun twists:

• BBQ Bacon Burger: Add a strip of air-fried bacon and a drizzle of BBQ sauce
• Mushroom Swiss: Sauté mushrooms and onions, then top the patty
• California Burger: Add avocado, sprouts, and a lemon-tahini sauce
• Breakfast Burger: Top with a fried egg, hash brown, and maple mayo

Sides That Pair Perfectly

Since you’re already using the air fryer, why not cook your sides too?

• Air-fried sweet potato fries (12–15 minutes at 400°F)
• Crispy onion rings (10 minutes at 380°F)
• Roasted Brussels sprouts (15 minutes at 375°F)
• Zucchini chips (8 minutes at 360°F)

Air Fryer Hamburger Cooking Times & Temperatures (Quick Reference Table)

Pattie Thickness	Doneness	Cook Time (Total)	Internal Temp	Notes
¾ inch	Medium-rare	10–11 minutes	135°F (57°C)	Flip after 6 minutes
¾ inch	Medium	12–13 minutes	145°F (63°C)	Ideal for most eaters
¾ inch	Well-done	14–16 minutes	160°F (71°C)	May be slightly drier
1 inch	Medium	14–16 minutes	145°F (63°C)	Use meat thermometer; flip twice
Frozen patties (¾ inch)	Well-done	18–20 minutes	160°F (71°C)	Do not thaw; cook from frozen

Use this table as a guide, but always verify with a meat thermometer. Oven-safe digital thermometers (like the Thermapen) are worth the investment for perfect results every time.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And Should!

So, can you cook a hamburger in the air fryer? Absolutely. And not just “can,” but should—especially if you value speed, convenience, and minimal cleanup. After testing dozens of patties, tweaking seasonings, and experimenting with toppings, I can confidently say that air-fried burgers are a legitimate alternative to grilling or pan-frying.

They’re juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly close to a stovetop burger in texture—especially when you use 80/20 ground beef and follow the timing guidelines. The air fryer gives you control over doneness, reduces mess, and lets you cook burgers year-round, no matter the weather.

Of course, it’s not perfect. You might miss the smoky char of a grill, and thick, hand-pressed pub-style burgers are harder to replicate. But for everyday meals, quick lunches, or cooking in tight spaces, the air fryer shines.

Next time you’re craving a burger, skip the takeout line and fire up your air fryer. With a little practice, you’ll be making restaurant-quality burgers in minutes—without leaving your kitchen. And who knows? You might just find yourself asking, “What else can I cook in this thing?”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook a hamburger in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook a hamburger in the air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to achieve a juicy patty with a slightly crispy exterior without needing a grill or stovetop.

What’s the best way to cook frozen hamburger patties in an air fryer?

For frozen hamburger patties, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), then cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. No thawing is needed, making it a perfect method for a fast, no-prep meal.

How long does it take to cook a hamburger in the air fryer?

Fresh hamburger patties typically take 8–10 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C). Flip them halfway to ensure even cooking and adjust time based on desired doneness.

Do I need to use oil when cooking hamburgers in the air fryer?

No, you don’t need oil since the fat in the ground beef renders during cooking. However, lightly brushing the patties with oil can enhance browning and flavor if preferred.

Can I cook a hamburger in the air fryer without it drying out?

To prevent drying, avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Choose fattier ground beef (80/20) for extra juiciness.

Can I toast buns in the air fryer while cooking my hamburger?

Yes! Place the buns in the air fryer during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking the patties. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning while achieving a warm, lightly toasted texture.