Can I Cook Beyond Burger in Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook a Beyond Burger in an air fryer for a quick, juicy, and perfectly seared plant-based patty. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for ideal texture without drying out. This method is faster than grilling and delivers delicious, consistent results every time.

Key Takeaways

• Cook Beyond Burger in air fryer: Yes, it’s quick and yields a crispy texture.
• Preheat for best results: Always preheat air fryer to 375°F before cooking.
• Flip halfway through: Flip patties at 8 minutes for even browning.
• Adjust time for thickness: Thicker patties need 12–15 minutes total cook time.
• Check internal temp: Ensure patty reaches 165°F for food safety.
• No oil needed: Beyond Burger’s fat content ensures juiciness without added oil.

Why Air Frying Beyond Burgers Is a Game-Changer

Imagine this: You’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger, but you don’t want the hassle of firing up the grill or dealing with the mess of a stovetop. Enter the air fryer—your new best friend for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. If you’re a fan of plant-based eating, you’ve probably heard of the Beyond Burger. It’s a vegan patty that’s won over meat lovers and vegetarians alike with its meat-like texture and taste. But can you cook a Beyond Burger in an air fryer? The short answer is yes—and it’s easier than you think.

Air fryers have taken the kitchen world by storm, and for good reason. They use hot air circulation to crisp up food with little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep frying. For plant-based eaters, this means you can enjoy your favorite meatless burgers with that satisfying crunch, all in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just getting started, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking Beyond Burgers in an air fryer. From timing and temperature tips to troubleshooting common issues, we’ve got you covered.

How to Cook Beyond Burger in Air Fryer: Step-by-Step

Prep Your Air Fryer and Ingredients

Before you start, make sure your air fryer is clean and ready to go. Remove any lingering food particles from previous cooking sessions—no one wants a smoky surprise! Take your Beyond Burger patties out of the freezer (if frozen) and let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly. If you’re using fresh patties, you can skip this step.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Beyond Burger patties (frozen or thawed)
• Air fryer
• Tongs or a spatula
• Optional: Cooking spray or a light brush of oil for extra crispiness

Pro tip: Lightly spraying the patties with oil (like avocado or olive oil) can enhance browning, but it’s totally optional. Beyond Burgers already contain plant-based fats, so they’ll crisp up nicely on their own.

Setting the Right Temperature and Time

The key to a perfectly cooked Beyond Burger is finding the sweet spot between crispy edges and a juicy center. Here’s the golden rule:

• Frozen patties: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes.
• Thawed patties: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Halfway through cooking, flip the patties with tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning and prevents one side from getting too crispy. If you’re using oil, a light spray after flipping can help achieve that restaurant-quality sear.

Real talk: I once tried cooking a frozen Beyond Burger at 400°F for 10 minutes, and while it was crispy, the edges were a bit too dark. Lowering the temp to 375°F made all the difference—juicy inside, golden outside.

Checking for Doneness

How do you know when your Beyond Burger is ready? Unlike meat, plant-based patties don’t have a “pink” indicator, but here’s how to tell:

• The patty should feel firm to the touch, with a slight springiness.
• The exterior should be golden brown, with a crispy texture.
• For frozen patties, the center should be steaming hot (use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—it should read 165°F/74°C).

If the patty looks undercooked, pop it back in for 1–2 more minutes. But be careful—overcooking can dry it out.

Tips for Perfect Beyond Burgers Every Time

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket

Air fryers work by circulating hot air, so spacing is crucial. If you stack or crowd the patties, they’ll steam instead of crisp. For best results, cook 1–2 patties at a time (depending on your air fryer size). If you’re feeding a crowd, cook in batches and keep the cooked patties warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the rest.

Personal anecdote: I once tried cooking three Beyond Burgers at once in my small air fryer. The result? Two were perfect, but the middle one was soggy. Lesson learned: patience pays off!

Experiment with Seasonings and Toppings

Beyond Burgers are flavorful on their own, but why stop there? Try these easy upgrades:

• Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder before cooking.
• Add a slice of vegan cheese during the last minute of cooking for a melty, gooey effect.
• Top with caramelized onions, avocado, or pickles for extra texture and flavor.

For a fun twist, I once brushed my patty with a mix of soy sauce and maple syrup before air frying—sweet, salty, and absolutely delicious.

Use Parchment Paper or Air Fryer Liners (Optional)

If you’re worried about sticking or cleanup, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a reusable silicone liner. Just make sure to poke a few holes in the paper to allow air circulation. This is especially helpful if you’re adding sticky toppings like barbecue sauce.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcooking the Patties

It’s easy to get carried away and leave your Beyond Burgers in the air fryer for too long. The result? A dry, rubbery patty that’s more like a hockey puck than a burger. To avoid this:

• Set a timer and check the patties a minute or two before the recommended time.
• If you’re unsure, cut a small slit in one patty to check the center—it should be steaming hot but not dry.

Pro tip: If you accidentally overcook a patty, don’t toss it! Crumble it into a salad or stir-fry for a tasty plant-based boost.

Using Too Much Oil

While a light spray of oil can enhance crispiness, too much can make your patties greasy. Beyond Burgers already contain fats, so they don’t need much help. Stick to a light mist or a quick brush—your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you.

Skipping the Flip

Flipping the patties halfway through ensures even cooking and prevents one side from getting too dark. If you forget, you might end up with a lopsided burger. Set a reminder or use a kitchen timer to stay on track.

Beyond Burgers vs. Other Plant-Based Patties in the Air Fryer

Texture and Cooking Time Comparison

Not all plant-based patties are created equal. Here’s how Beyond Burgers stack up against other popular options when cooked in an air fryer:

Brand	Texture	Cooking Time (Frozen)	Best For
Beyond Burger	Meaty, juicy, slightly crumbly when overcooked	12–14 minutes at 375°F	Classic burgers, grilling-style texture
Impossible Burger	Denser, more “ground meat”-like, holds shape well	10–12 minutes at 375°F	Burgers, crumbles for tacos
MorningStar Farms Grillers	Firmer, less juicy, holds shape well	8–10 minutes at 375°F	Quick meals, sandwiches
Dr. Praeger’s Black Bean Burger	Softer, more crumbly, needs careful handling	10–12 minutes at 360°F	Healthy, grain-free options

Insider note: Beyond Burgers have a higher fat content than some competitors, which makes them juicier but also more prone to drying out if overcooked. Keep an eye on them!

Flavor and Versatility

Beyond Burgers have a savory, slightly “beefy” flavor that pairs well with classic burger toppings. They’re also versatile—try them in:

• Sliders: Cut patties in half for mini burgers.
• Buddha bowls: Crumble over quinoa or greens.
• Tacos: Dice and season with taco spices.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Air-Fried Beyond Burgers

Classic Burger Style

Sometimes, simple is best. Toast a brioche or whole-grain bun, add your air-fried Beyond Burger, and pile on the classics:

• Vegan cheese
• Lettuce, tomato, onion
• Pickles and mustard
• Special sauce (mix vegan mayo, ketchup, and relish)

Personal favorite: I love adding a slice of grilled pineapple for a sweet-and-savory kick.

Beyond Burger Bowls

Skip the bun and turn your burger into a bowl. Start with a base of:

• Brown rice or quinoa
• Mixed greens
• Roasted sweet potatoes

Top with crumbled Beyond Burger, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini or ranch dressing. Healthy, filling, and delicious.

Breakfast Burger Twist

Who says burgers are just for lunch? Try this morning twist:

• Air-fry a Beyond Burger and a slice of vegan cheese.
• Toast an English muffin.
• Top with a fried egg (or tofu scramble), spinach, and sriracha mayo.

It’s like a veggie version of the classic McDonald’s Egg McMuffin—but way healthier.

Final Thoughts: Why Air-Fried Beyond Burgers Are a Win

Cooking Beyond Burgers in an air fryer is a total win—quick, easy, and mess-free. Whether you’re a plant-based newbie or a seasoned vegan, this method delivers juicy, flavorful burgers with minimal effort. Just remember the golden rules: don’t overcook, flip halfway, and experiment with toppings to keep things exciting.

Beyond Burgers aren’t just a meat alternative; they’re a gateway to creative, healthy eating. With an air fryer, you can enjoy them anytime, from weeknight dinners to weekend cookouts. So go ahead—toss a patty in your air fryer and discover why this combo is a game-changer. Your taste buds (and your air fryer) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook Beyond Burger in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook Beyond Burger in an air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient method that delivers a juicy, evenly cooked patty with minimal oil.

What temperature should I use to air fry Beyond Burger?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for best results. Cook the Beyond Burger for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to add oil when air frying Beyond Burger?

No, Beyond Burger doesn’t require additional oil when air frying. The plant-based fats in the patty are enough to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping it moist inside.

How long does it take to cook Beyond Burger in air fryer?

Cooking Beyond Burger in an air fryer typically takes 10–12 minutes. For best texture, flip the patty halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Can I cook frozen Beyond Burgers in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen Beyond Burgers directly in the air fryer. Add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time (total 12–15 minutes) and check that the center is fully heated.

Is air frying Beyond Burger healthier than pan-frying?

Air frying Beyond Burger is generally healthier than pan-frying because it uses little to no oil. This reduces overall fat and calorie intake while still delivering a delicious, crispy texture.