Can You Make Frozen Burgers in an Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can make frozen burgers in an air fryer—and they come out juicy, evenly cooked, and ready in under 15 minutes. No thawing needed; just season, place in a single layer, and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for optimal crispness. It’s the fastest, easiest way to turn frozen patties into a delicious, satisfying meal.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook frozen burgers in an air fryer—no thawing needed for quick, juicy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a perfect sear every time.
• Cook at 360°F–375°F for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway for optimal doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify internal temp reaches 160°F for food safety.
• Skip oil sprays—frozen burgers release enough fat for a crispy exterior.
• Space burgers apart to allow proper air circulation and prevent steaming.

The Air Fryer Revolution: A New Way to Cook Burgers

Remember the last time you craved a juicy burger but didn’t want to deal with the hassle of thawing, grilling, or even turning on your oven? I was in that exact spot a few weeks ago. I had a pack of frozen burgers in the freezer and only 20 minutes before guests arrived. That’s when I decided to try something new: can you make frozen burgers in an air fryer? The answer surprised me—and now, I can’t imagine going back to the old ways.

Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm, promising crispy, delicious food with less oil and less mess. But can they handle frozen burgers? The short answer is yes, and not just in a pinch. Cooking frozen burgers in an air fryer is fast, convenient, and surprisingly effective. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good burger without the fuss, this method might just become your go-to. Let’s dive into the details, the dos and don’ts, and everything in between to help you master this simple but game-changing technique.

Why Air Fryers Are Perfect for Frozen Burgers

Let’s be honest: frozen burgers have a bad reputation. They’re often seen as a last-minute, less-tasty alternative to fresh patties. But with an air fryer, that narrative changes. The technology behind air fryers—rapid hot air circulation—is what makes them so effective for frozen foods, especially burgers.

How Air Fryers Work Their Magic

Air fryers use a heating element and a powerful fan to circulate hot air around your food. This creates a convection effect similar to a convection oven, but in a much smaller space. The result? Crispy exteriors and juicy interiors—without deep frying. For frozen burgers, this means even cooking from the outside in, with minimal risk of drying out the center.

Unlike a microwave (which can leave burgers rubbery or unevenly cooked) or a stovetop (which requires constant flipping and oil), the air fryer does most of the work for you. The hot air surrounds the patty, gently thawing and cooking it simultaneously. This is especially helpful for thicker frozen burgers, which can be tricky to cook through without burning the outside.

Benefits Over Other Cooking Methods

• Speed: No need to thaw. Pop the frozen patty in and go. Most burgers cook in 10–15 minutes.
• Less oil: You can skip the oil entirely or use just a light spray. No greasy pans or smoke.
• Consistent results: The air fryer’s even heat reduces hot spots, so your burger is less likely to be charred on one side and raw on the other.
• Easy cleanup: Just wipe the basket or use a liner. No splatter or sticky pans.

I once tried cooking a frozen burger in a pan, and let’s just say the kitchen still smelled like smoke two days later. With the air fryer? No smoke, no mess, and a perfectly cooked patty.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Frozen Burgers in an Air Fryer

Now that you’re convinced it’s possible, let’s walk through the process. The key is simplicity—no fancy tools or techniques required. Just a few steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy burger in minutes.

What You’ll Need

• Frozen burger patties (beef, turkey, veggie—your choice)
• Air fryer
• Air fryer liner (optional, but helps with cleanup)
• Light cooking spray or oil (optional)
• Thermometer (optional, for food safety)

Pro tip: If your burgers are stuck together, gently separate them before cooking. You don’t want them fused into one giant patty!

Cooking Instructions (The Easy Way)

1. Preheat the air fryer (optional but recommended): Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking.
2. Arrange the patties: Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave a little space between each so the hot air can circulate. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
3. Spray lightly (optional): A quick spritz of oil or cooking spray can help achieve a crispier crust, especially for leaner burgers.
4. Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes: Flip the patties halfway through (around the 5–6 minute mark). This ensures even browning and prevents one side from drying out.
5. Check internal temperature: For beef burgers, aim for 160°F (71°C). For turkey or veggie burgers, follow package instructions. A meat thermometer is your best friend here.
6. Rest and serve: Let the burgers sit for a minute or two before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making them juicier.

One time, I forgot to flip my burgers and ended up with a slightly charred side and a pale one. Lesson learned: flipping is non-negotiable for perfect results.

Customizing Your Cooking Time

Not all frozen burgers are created equal. A 1/3-pound beef patty will cook differently than a thin turkey burger. Here’s a quick guide:

• Thin patties (¼ inch): 8–10 minutes at 375°F
• Standard patties (½ inch): 10–12 minutes at 375°F
• Thick patties (¾ inch or more): 14–16 minutes at 375°F, or lower to 350°F to prevent burning

If you’re unsure, start with the lower time and check the internal temp. You can always cook it longer, but you can’t uncook it!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Burgers

Even the best method can be improved with a few insider tips. Over the past year, I’ve experimented with different brands, thicknesses, and even seasonings to find what works best. Here are my top recommendations.

Choose the Right Burger

Not all frozen burgers respond equally well to air frying. Here’s what to look for:

• Beef patties: Look for ones with 15–20% fat. Too lean, and they’ll dry out. Too fatty, and they’ll splatter.
• Turkey or chicken patties: These tend to be leaner, so a light spray of oil helps prevent dryness.
• Veggie burgers: Check the ingredients. Some are too soft and may fall apart. Brands like Dr. Praeger’s or MorningStar work well.

I once tried a low-fat turkey burger and ended up with something that tasted like cardboard. A quick spray of avocado oil before cooking made a huge difference.

Enhance Flavor Without the Fuss

Want to jazz up your burger? Try these easy upgrades:

• Season before cooking: A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika adds depth.
• Add cheese: Place a slice of cheddar, American, or pepper jack on the patty during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. The heat will melt it perfectly.
• Use a basting brush: Lightly brush with BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or hot sauce during the last few minutes for a sticky, flavorful crust.

One of my favorite tricks? A dash of Worcestershire sauce on the patty before cooking. It adds a savory umami kick that elevates the whole burger.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to cram in as many patties as possible. But air circulation is key to even cooking. If you’re cooking more than two burgers, do it in batches. Your patience will be rewarded with perfectly cooked patties.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to cook four burgers at once. Two were undercooked, two were overcooked. Now, I stick to two at a time—even if it takes a few extra minutes.

Use Parchment Liners or Aluminum Foil

Cleanup is a breeze if you use air fryer-safe parchment liners or a small piece of foil. Just make sure to poke a few holes in the foil so the air can circulate. No more scrubbing stuck-on meat or cheese.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced cooks can run into issues when air frying frozen burgers. Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to sidestep them.

Undercooking or Overcooking

The biggest mistake? Not checking the internal temperature. Relying solely on time can lead to disasters. A patty might look done on the outside but still be raw inside (or vice versa).

• Solution: Always use a meat thermometer. For beef, 160°F is safe. For turkey, 165°F. Veggie burgers vary, so check the package.
• Pro tip: If the burger is browning too quickly, lower the temperature to 350°F and extend the cooking time slightly.

I once served a burger that was charred on the outside but still icy in the center. Not fun. Now, I always double-check with a thermometer.

Forgetting to Flip

Flipping ensures even browning and cooking. Without it, one side might be crispy while the other is pale and rubbery.

• Solution: Set a timer for the halfway point. Use tongs or a spatula to flip gently—don’t break the patty.

Using Too Much Oil

Air fryers don’t need much oil to crisp up food. Too much can cause smoke or a greasy texture.

• Solution: A light spray or brush is all you need. If your air fryer smokes, wipe it down and use less oil next time.

Ignoring the Resting Step

Cutting into a burger right after cooking releases all the juices. Letting it rest for 1–2 minutes allows the meat to reabsorb the moisture.

• Solution: Be patient! The wait is worth it.

Data and Comparisons: Air Fryer vs. Other Methods

How does air frying stack up against grilling, pan-frying, or microwaving? Let’s look at the numbers.

Cooking Method	Avg. Time (Frozen Burger)	Oil Used	Cleanup Difficulty	Texture	Flavor
Air Fryer	10–15 minutes	0–1 tsp	Easy (wipe or liner)	Crispy outside, juicy inside	Rich, slightly charred
Grill	12–20 minutes	1–2 tbsp (to prevent sticking)	Hard (scrub grates)	Charred, smoky	Smoky, bold
Pan-Fry	10–15 minutes	1–2 tbsp	Moderate (grease splatter)	Crispy, greasy	Rich, fatty
Microwave	5–8 minutes	0	Easy	Rubbery, uneven	Mild, bland
Oven	20–25 minutes	0–1 tsp	Moderate (baking sheet)	Dry, less crispy	Balanced

The air fryer wins on speed, ease, and texture. It’s not quite as smoky as a grill, but it’s far less messy. Compared to the oven, it’s faster and more energy-efficient. And it beats the microwave hands-down in flavor and texture.

One thing to note: air frying doesn’t give you the same char or grill marks as a traditional grill. If you’re craving that smoky flavor, consider finishing your burger on a hot pan or grill for 30 seconds per side.

Creative Ideas and Beyond the Basics

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. Air fryer burgers can be the foundation of so many delicious meals.

Build a Better Burger

• Bun it right: Toast your bun in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes. It adds crunch and prevents sogginess.
• Toppings galore: Crisp bacon, caramelized onions, pickled jalapeños, avocado slices—air fryer burgers can handle it all.
• Sauce it up: Try aioli, chipotle mayo, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

My go-to combo? A cheddar-topped beef patty with caramelized onions and a smear of garlic aioli on a toasted brioche bun. Perfection.

Make a Burger Bowl

Not in the mood for a bun? Crumble your cooked burger over a bed of greens, add veggies, and top with your favorite dressing. It’s a quick, healthy meal with zero compromise on flavor.

Freeze Your Own Air Fryer-Friendly Patties

Want to make your own frozen burgers? Form patties, season lightly, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. They’ll cook just as well in the air fryer—and you’ll know exactly what’s in them.

Bonus: You can make them extra thick or stuffed with cheese, mushrooms, or even blue cheese crumbles. Just add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time for stuffed patties.

Pair with Air Fryer Sides

Why stop at burgers? Make a full meal in your air fryer:

• Fries: Toss frozen fries in the air fryer for 12–15 minutes at 400°F.
• Onion rings: 10–12 minutes at 375°F.
• Sweet potato fries: 15 minutes at 380°F, shaking halfway.

I love doing a burger-and-fries combo in my air fryer. No oven, no mess, and everything cooks at once.

Final Thoughts: Is the Air Fryer the Best Way to Cook Frozen Burgers?

After months of testing, tweaking, and eating more burgers than I’d care to admit, I can confidently say: yes, you can make frozen burgers in an air fryer, and it’s one of the best ways to do it.

The air fryer delivers speed, convenience, and consistently delicious results. It’s not perfect—nothing is—but it comes remarkably close. The patties cook evenly, the cleanup is minimal, and the flavor is rich and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, it’s a method that just works.

Of course, it’s not a full replacement for grilling or pan-searing if you’re after that deep char or smoky aroma. But for everyday cooking, late-night cravings, or busy weeknights? The air fryer is a game-changer. So grab that pack of frozen burgers, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a juicy, crispy, hassle-free burger in under 15 minutes. You won’t regret it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make frozen burgers in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen burgers in an air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to achieve a juicy patty with a slightly crispy exterior without defrosting first.

What temperature should I use to cook frozen burgers in an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for best results. This temperature ensures even cooking while locking in juices, typically taking 12–15 minutes depending on thickness.

How long do you cook frozen burgers in an air fryer?

Cook frozen burgers in an air fryer for 12–15 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway through. Thicker patties may need an extra 2–3 minutes—always check for an internal temperature of 160°F.

Do I need to thaw frozen burgers before air frying?

No, thawing isn’t necessary. Cooking frozen burgers in an air fryer straight from the freezer saves time and still delivers a tender, flavorful result with less mess.

Can you cook store-bought frozen burger patties in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Store-bought frozen burger patties work perfectly in an air fryer. Just follow the recommended time and temperature, and avoid overcrowding the basket for even browning.

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

To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking and lightly spray patties with oil before air frying. For extra moisture, brush with sauce or butter during the last 2 minutes of cooking.