Can You Cook Hamburgers in an Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can cook hamburgers in an air fryer—and they come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seared with minimal effort. With just a few minutes of prep and no flipping required, air fryer burgers are a fast, mess-free alternative to grilling or stovetop cooking.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook hamburgers in an air fryer—it’s quick, easy, and delivers juicy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for even cooking and optimal sear.
• Use lean ground beef (80/20) to minimize smoke and avoid excess grease.
• Cook in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure perfect browning.
• Flip halfway through for uniform doneness and a consistent crust.
• Check internal temperature—160°F is the safe minimum for ground beef.
• Rest burgers briefly after cooking to retain juices before serving.

Can You Cook Hamburgers in an Air Fryer? Here Is How

Let’s be honest—cooking burgers is a rite of passage in the kitchen. Whether you’re flipping patties on a sizzling grill or pan-frying them on a weeknight, there’s something deeply satisfying about a juicy, well-seasoned hamburger. But what if you could skip the mess, the smoke, and the constant flipping? Enter the air fryer: your kitchen’s quiet, compact, and surprisingly powerful ally. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you cook hamburgers in an air fryer?”, the short answer is a resounding yes. But like any cooking method, it comes with its own quirks, tricks, and a few surprises along the way.

I first tried cooking hamburgers in my air fryer out of sheer curiosity—and a little laziness. My grill was buried under snow, my stovetop was cluttered, and I didn’t want to fire up the oven just for two burgers. I figured, “How bad could it be?” Turns out, it wasn’t bad at all. In fact, it was better than I expected. The patties came out juicy, with a nice crust, and cleanup was a breeze. Since then, I’ve experimented with different types of meat, seasonings, and techniques. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned—from choosing the right meat to nailing that perfect sear—so you can confidently cook hamburgers in an air fryer and impress your family (or just yourself).

Why Use an Air Fryer for Hamburgers?

You might be wondering: why even bother with an air fryer when you’ve got a grill, skillet, or oven? Well, the air fryer offers a unique blend of convenience, speed, and consistency that’s hard to beat—especially if you’re short on time or space.

1. Speed and Efficiency

Air fryers work by circulating hot air around food at high speed, creating a crisp exterior while cooking the inside evenly. This means your hamburgers can go from raw to ready in as little as 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Compare that to preheating an oven (10–15 minutes) or waiting for a grill to reach temperature, and the air fryer wins on speed. Plus, there’s no need to wait for coals or gas to heat up.

2. Less Mess, Easier Cleanup

Grilling can leave your deck or backyard smoky. Pan-frying can splatter grease all over your stovetop. But the air fryer? It’s self-contained. Most models come with a non-stick basket that lifts out easily. After cooking, just wipe it down or pop it in the dishwasher (if dishwasher-safe). No scrubbing, no smoke alarms going off—just clean, simple cooking.

3. Consistent Results

One of the biggest challenges with cooking burgers is getting them evenly done without drying them out. The air fryer’s controlled environment helps regulate heat distribution, so you’re less likely to end up with one side burnt and the other raw. This is especially helpful for beginners or those who don’t have the time to hover over a stovetop.

4. Healthier Option (With Caveats)

While “air-fried” doesn’t automatically mean “healthy,” the air fryer does require significantly less oil than traditional frying. You can cook a burger with just a light spray of oil—or even none at all, if you’re using a fatty ground beef blend (80/20). The excess fat drips away during cooking, which can reduce overall calorie and fat content compared to pan-frying.

5. Year-Round Cooking

Let’s face it: grilling is great… when the weather allows. But what about rain, snow, or a tiny apartment balcony? The air fryer lets you cook burgers indoors, anytime, regardless of the forecast. No more waiting for summer to enjoy a juicy burger.

Choosing the Right Meat and Seasoning

The foundation of any great hamburger is the meat—and the seasoning. When using an air fryer, your choices matter even more because the cooking environment is different from grilling or pan-frying.

1. Ground Beef Blends

For the best balance of juiciness and flavor, go with an 80/20 blend (80% lean meat, 20% fat). The fat keeps the burger moist and helps it brown nicely in the air fryer. Leaner blends like 90/10 or 93/7 can work, but they tend to dry out faster. If you’re using leaner meat, consider brushing the patties with a little oil or adding a tablespoon of butter or olive oil to the mix.

• 80/20 ground chuck: My go-to. Rich flavor, stays juicy.
• Ground sirloin: Leaner, slightly less fat, but still good if you prefer less grease.
• Ground turkey or chicken: Works, but needs extra moisture (add egg, breadcrumbs, or oil).
• Plant-based patties: Yes, you can air fry Impossible or Beyond Burgers! Just follow package instructions.

2. Patty Thickness and Shape

For air frying, aim for patties that are ¾ to 1 inch thick. Thinner patties cook too fast and dry out; thicker ones may not cook through evenly. Use a burger press or your hands to shape them evenly. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty—this prevents it from puffing up in the middle and ensures even cooking.

Pro tip: If you’re making multiple burgers, chill the patties in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and reduces shrinkage.

3. Seasoning: Keep It Simple

Less is more when it comes to seasoning. Overloading the patties can create a crust that burns in the air fryer. Stick to:

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (the basics)
• Garlic powder or onion powder (optional, but delicious)
• A pinch of smoked paprika for depth (great for mimicking grill flavor)

Avoid wet marinades or heavy sauces before cooking—they can cause smoke or splatter. Save the BBQ sauce, ketchup, or special glazes for the last minute or after cooking.

4. Prepping for the Air Fryer

Before placing the patties in the basket:

• Lightly spray or brush both sides with oil (avocado, canola, or olive oil work well).
• If your air fryer basket has a non-stick coating, you can skip oil for 80/20 meat.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave at least ½ inch between patties for air circulation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Hamburgers in an Air Fryer

Now that you’ve prepped your meat and seasoning, it’s time to cook. Here’s a foolproof method I’ve refined after dozens of batches.

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Always preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This ensures the patties start cooking immediately and develop a nice crust. Most modern air fryers have a preheat function, but if yours doesn’t, just run it empty for a few minutes.

2. Season and Oil the Patties

As mentioned earlier, season generously with salt and pepper. Lightly spray or brush both sides with oil. Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer—no stacking!

3. Cook the First Side

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes without flipping. This builds a solid sear and locks in juices. Don’t open the basket during this time—let the hot air do its work.

4. Flip and Cook the Second Side

After 5–6 minutes, flip the patties using tongs or a thin spatula. Cook for another 4–6 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness:

• Rare: 3–4 minutes (internal temp: 120–125°F)
• Medium-rare: 4–5 minutes (130–135°F)
• Medium: 5–6 minutes (140–145°F)
• Medium-well: 6–7 minutes (150–155°F)
• Well-done: 7–8 minutes (160°F+)

Note: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Insert it into the side of the patty, not the top, to avoid touching the air fryer basket.

5. Add Cheese (Optional)

If you’re making cheeseburgers, add the cheese during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Close the basket and let it melt. The residual heat is usually enough to melt cheddar, American, or mozzarella without overcooking the meat.

6. Rest and Serve

Let the burgers rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute. While they rest, toast your buns in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Then assemble with your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayo—whatever makes your heart sing.

Real-life example: I once cooked four 1-inch thick 80/20 patties in my 5.8-quart air fryer. Total time: 12 minutes (6 per side), with cheese added at the end. They came out medium with a perfect pink center, a golden crust, and zero dryness. My family didn’t believe they were air-fried!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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

1. Overcrowding the Basket

Cramming too many patties in the basket blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking and steamed (not crispy) burgers. Rule of thumb: Only cook as many burgers as can fit in a single layer with space between them. If you have a small air fryer, cook in batches.

2. Not Preheating

Skipping preheating is a rookie mistake. Without it, your burgers start cooking in a cold basket, resulting in a pale, soft exterior and longer cook time. Always preheat—even if it feels like a small step.

3. Overcooking or Undercooking

Air fryers cook fast. It’s easy to go from medium to well-done in 30 seconds. Use a meat thermometer. And remember: the burger will continue to cook slightly while resting, so pull it off a few degrees below your target temp.

4. Forgetting to Flip

Some people skip flipping, thinking the air fryer cooks both sides at once. But for a good sear on both sides, flipping is essential. Use a thin, flexible spatula to avoid breaking the patty.

5. Using Too Much Oil

A light spray or brush is enough. Too much oil can drip and smoke, especially if your air fryer has a plastic base. If you see smoke, open a window and reduce oil next time.

6. Ignoring the Drip Tray

Fat drips into the bottom of the air fryer during cooking. If you’re cooking multiple batches, wipe the drip tray between uses to prevent smoking or burning.

Data Table: Air Fryer Hamburger Cooking Times & Temperatures

Patty Thickness	Meat Type	Cook Temp	Cook Time (Per Side)	Internal Temp (Medium)	Cheese Melt Time
¾ inch	80/20 Beef	375°F	4–5 min	140–145°F	1–2 min (last)
1 inch	80/20 Beef	375°F	5–6 min	140–145°F	1–2 min (last)
¾ inch	90/10 Beef	375°F	5–6 min	140–145°F	1–2 min (last)
1 inch	Ground Turkey	375°F	6–7 min	165°F	1–2 min (last)
¾ inch	Plant-Based	360°F	5–6 min	Follow package	1–2 min (last)

Note: Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and altitude.

Tips for Customizing Your Air-Fried Burgers

The air fryer is incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to get creative. Here are some of my favorite upgrades and variations.

1. Add a Crust with Panko or Breadcrumbs

For a crispy exterior, lightly coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before air frying. Spray with oil to help them brown.

2. Use a Dry Rub or Spice Blend

Try a homemade dry rub: mix paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub it into the patties before cooking for a bold flavor.

3. Make Sliders or Mini Burgers

Smaller patties (1–2 oz) cook faster and are perfect for parties. Cook at 375°F for 3–4 minutes per side. Use mini buns or Hawaiian rolls.

4. Try Different Cheeses

Experiment with blue cheese, pepper jack, brie, or even halloumi. Just add it during the last minute or two of cooking.

5. Air Fry the Toppings

Want caramelized onions or crispy bacon? Air fry them first! Onions take 8–10 minutes at 375°F; bacon takes 6–8 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).

6. Make a Burger Bowl

Skip the bun and serve your air-fried patty over a bed of greens, roasted veggies, or quinoa. Top with avocado, pickles, and a creamy sauce.

7. Reheat Leftovers

Got leftover burgers? Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. They’ll taste just as juicy as when they were fresh—unlike microwaved burgers, which often turn rubbery.

Personal favorite: I once made a “smash burger” in the air fryer by pressing thin 2-oz patties and cooking them for just 3 minutes per side. The result? A crispy, lacy edge and a juicy center—just like the real thing, minus the grill.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can (and Should!) Cook Hamburgers in an Air Fryer

So, can you cook hamburgers in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s fast, clean, consistent, and delivers delicious results every time. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, the air fryer removes the stress and mess of traditional burger cooking while keeping the flavor and texture you love.

I’ve cooked everything from classic beef burgers to turkey sliders and even plant-based patties in my air fryer, and each one has been a win. The key is understanding the basics: use the right meat, don’t overcrowd, flip halfway, and use a thermometer. Once you master those, the possibilities are endless.

And let’s not forget the best part: cleanup takes two minutes. No scrubbing pans, no smoky kitchen, no waiting for the grill to cool. Just juicy, flavorful burgers—anytime, anywhere.

So go ahead. Grab your favorite ground beef, shape a patty, and pop it in the air fryer. You might just find that this humble appliance becomes your new burger MVP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook hamburgers in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook hamburgers in an air fryer! It’s a quick and healthy way to achieve juicy, flavorful burgers with less oil compared to traditional frying methods.

How long does it take to cook hamburgers in an air fryer?

Cooking hamburgers in an air fryer typically takes 10–14 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on thickness and desired doneness. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for hamburgers?

Preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures consistent results and helps the burgers develop a better sear. While not always required, it’s recommended for optimal texture.

Can you cook frozen hamburgers in an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can cook frozen hamburgers in an air fryer—just add 3–5 extra minutes to the cook time. No need to thaw, making it a convenient option for quick meals.

What’s the best way to season hamburgers for the air fryer?

Season your hamburgers as you normally would with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or other favorite spices. Since the air fryer circulates heat evenly, the seasoning will caramelize beautifully without burning.

How do I keep hamburgers from drying out in the air fryer?

To keep hamburgers juicy, avoid overcooking and use ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20). Lightly brush with oil or add a pat of butter before cooking for extra moisture.