Can You Put Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook frozen burgers in the air fryer—it’s a fast, convenient way to achieve juicy, evenly cooked patties without thawing. Simply preheat the air fryer to 375°F, cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a delicious result with less fat than traditional frying. Perfect for quick weeknight meals!

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 on frozen patties.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for optimal texture.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.
• Skip oil or spray—frozen burgers release enough fat for a crisp exterior.
• Space patties evenly to allow air circulation and prevent steaming for better browning.
• Add buns last 2 minutes to toast them without overcooking the burgers.

Can You Put Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Let’s face it—life gets busy. Between work, family, and everything in between, who has time to thaw meat or wait for a grill to heat up? That’s why I’ve turned to my trusty air fryer more times than I can count. It’s quick, easy, and (dare I say) almost magical. But one question kept popping up in my mind: Can you put frozen burgers in the air fryer? I mean, really put them in there straight from the freezer, no thawing, no prep—just pop and go? After burning a few patties and perfecting my method, I’m here to share what I’ve learned.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student surviving on convenience meals, or just someone who loves a juicy burger without the hassle, this guide is for you. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking frozen burgers in an air fryer—from the science behind it to practical tips, timing tricks, and even how to avoid that dreaded dry or rubbery texture. Spoiler alert: Yes, you *can* put frozen burgers in the air fryer, and yes, they can taste amazing. Let’s dive in.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Frozen Burgers

How Air Fryers Work (The Short Version)

Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation—kind of like a mini convection oven—to crisp food on the outside while cooking it evenly on the inside. The high-speed fan pushes hot air around the food, creating that golden, crispy crust we love without needing a ton of oil.

This is great news for frozen burgers because they’re already shaped and pre-cooked (in most cases), so the air fryer can do what it does best: heat them through quickly and give them that grill-like texture. No soggy mess, no uneven cooking—just consistent results.

Speed and Convenience

Let’s be real: the biggest reason people love air fryers is speed. Cooking a frozen burger on the stove or in the oven can take 15–20 minutes, and that’s if you remember to preheat. With an air fryer, you can go from freezer to plate in under 15 minutes—no thawing, no waiting.

For example, last Tuesday, I was running late after work and had nothing ready for dinner. I grabbed two frozen beef patties from the freezer, placed them in the air fryer basket, set the timer for 12 minutes, and by the time I changed my clothes, I had juicy, perfectly cooked burgers. That’s the kind of convenience that changes lives.

Healthier Than Frying (But Still Tasty)

Traditional frying uses a lot of oil, which adds extra calories and fat. Air frying, on the other hand, uses little to no oil—just a light spray if you want a little extra crisp. This means you get a burger that’s lower in fat but still has that satisfying crunch.

One thing I noticed: my air-fried burgers didn’t leave my kitchen smelling like a fast-food joint. No greasy residue on the stovetop, no lingering odor. That’s a win in my book, especially if you’re cooking in a small apartment or shared space.

What Types of Frozen Burgers Work Best?

Beef Patties (The Classic Choice)

Most store-bought frozen beef patties are made for quick cooking. They’re usually pre-seasoned, pre-formed, and often pre-cooked (fully or partially), which makes them ideal for the air fryer. Brands like Hormel, Bubba Burger, and Costco’s Kirkland Signature work really well.

I’ve tested a few: the Bubba Burgers (about 1/3 lb each) cooked beautifully in 12 minutes at 370°F. They stayed juicy inside and developed a nice crust on the outside. Just don’t overcrowd the basket—space them out so the air can circulate.

Chicken, Turkey, and Plant-Based Options

Not all burgers are beef, and the air fryer handles the alternatives just as well. I tried frozen turkey burgers (from Jennie-O) and they cooked in about 10 minutes at 360°F. They stayed moist and didn’t dry out, which is a common problem with turkey.

Plant-based burgers (like Beyond Meat or Impossible) are a bit trickier because they’re more delicate. I found that cooking them at a slightly lower temperature (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, gave the best results. They didn’t crumble, and the texture was surprisingly close to real beef.

Pro tip: If you’re using plant-based patties, lightly spray them with oil before cooking. This helps prevent sticking and adds a little crispiness.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought

You can absolutely make your own frozen burgers and cook them in the air fryer. I do this all the time—just form the patties, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. When I want one, I grab it and go.

The key is to make them the same thickness (about 3/4 inch) so they cook evenly. I also recommend freezing them on parchment paper so they don’t stick together. Store-bought patties are convenient, but homemade ones give you control over fat content, seasoning, and quality—plus, they’re often cheaper in the long run.

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

Prep Work (Yes, Even With Frozen)

Even though we’re skipping the thaw, there’s still a little prep. First, preheat your air fryer. I know some people skip this step, but I’ve found that preheating (3–5 minutes at 370°F) helps the burgers cook more evenly and develop a better crust.

Next, lightly spray the basket with oil or line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking, especially with leaner patties. I use a reusable silicone liner—eco-friendly and saves me from scrubbing.

Finally, if your burgers are stuck together (a common issue), gently separate them. Don’t force it—let them sit for a minute or two if needed.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Here’s the golden rule: 370°F for 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway. That’s for standard 1/3 lb beef patties. Smaller or thinner patties might need less time; thicker ones (like 1/2 lb) might need up to 16 minutes.

I use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For beef, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. For turkey or chicken, it’s 165°F. Plant-based burgers are usually safe at 165°F too, but check the package instructions.

Example: I cooked two 1/3 lb frozen beef patties at 370°F. At 6 minutes, I flipped them. At 12 minutes, I checked the temp—162°F. Perfect. They were juicy, not dry, and had a nice sear.

Flipping and Checking

Flipping halfway is crucial. It ensures even cooking and prevents one side from getting too dark. Use tongs or a spatula—don’t use a fork, or you’ll lose precious juices.

After flipping, you can add cheese if you want. I love a slice of American or cheddar. Close the basket and cook for another 1–2 minutes until melted. Pro tip: Add the cheese in the last 2 minutes so it doesn’t overcook.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake I see. People try to cook 4 or 5 burgers at once, but the air can’t circulate properly. Result? Soggy, unevenly cooked patties.

Solution: Cook in batches. For most air fryers, 2–3 burgers at a time is ideal. If you have a large basket (6+ quarts), you might fit 3–4, but leave space between them.

Skipping the Flip

I’ve done this. I thought, “Eh, it’ll be fine.” Nope. One side was golden brown; the other was pale and undercooked. Flipping is non-negotiable.

My fix: Set a timer for half the total cook time. When it goes off, flip. Simple.

Not Checking Internal Temp

“Looks done” isn’t always “is done.” Undercooked meat is a health risk, and overcooked meat is just sad.

Invest in a $10 instant-read thermometer. It’s a game-changer. Insert it into the side of the patty, not the top, for the most accurate reading.

Using Too Much Oil (or None at All)

Some people spray the burgers heavily with oil, thinking it’ll make them crispier. Too much oil can cause smoke and make the burgers greasy.

Others use none, which can lead to sticking and dryness. Balance is key: a light spray (1–2 seconds) on both sides before cooking is plenty.

Tips for Juicier, Crispier, and Tastier Burgers

Seasoning Before or After?

Most frozen burgers are already seasoned, but I like to add a little extra. A sprinkle of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of Montreal steak seasoning can elevate the flavor.

When to add it: I season *before* cooking. The heat helps the flavors penetrate. But if you’re worried about sticking, add it after flipping.

Adding Cheese (The Right Way)

Cheese lovers, listen up. Don’t add cheese too early—it can melt and drip into the basket, making a mess. Add it in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.

I’ve also tried placing a small piece of foil under the patty to catch drips. Works like a charm.

Resting the Burgers

After cooking, let the burgers rest for 1–2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, so your burger isn’t dry when you bite into it.

While they rest, toast your buns in the air fryer (2–3 minutes at 350°F) or on the stovetop. Nothing beats a warm, slightly crispy bun.

Customizing Your Burger

The air fryer isn’t just for patties. You can cook bacon, onions, mushrooms, or even frozen onion rings alongside your burgers. Just adjust the timing—bacon cooks in 6–8 minutes at 370°F, mushrooms in 5–7 minutes.

One of my favorite combos: air-fried patty + air-fried bacon + caramelized onions + avocado. All cooked in one session. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

Data Table: Frozen Burger Cooking Times in Air Fryer

Burger Type	Weight	Temp (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Flip?	Internal Temp
Frozen Beef	1/3 lb (5 oz)	370	10–14	Yes (at 6 min)	160°F
Frozen Beef	1/2 lb (8 oz)	370	12–16	Yes (at 7 min)	160°F
Frozen Turkey	1/3 lb	360	10–12	Yes (at 5 min)	165°F
Plant-Based	1/3 lb	350	10–12	Yes (at 6 min)	165°F
Homemade (beef)	3/4 inch thick	370	12–14	Yes (at 6 min)	160°F

Note: Times are approximate and may vary based on air fryer model, patty thickness, and starting temperature. Always use a thermometer for safety.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can (And Should) Air Fry Frozen Burgers

So, can you put frozen burgers in the air fryer? Absolutely. And not just “can”—you should, especially if you value speed, convenience, and flavor. The air fryer turns a frozen patty into a restaurant-quality burger in under 15 minutes, with minimal effort and cleanup.

But like any cooking method, it’s not foolproof. Avoid overcrowding, flip the patties, check the internal temperature, and don’t skip the light oil spray. These small steps make a big difference in texture and taste.

I’ve gone from skeptical to obsessed. My air fryer is now my go-to for burgers, whether I’m cooking for one or feeding a family. It’s reliable, consistent, and (dare I say) fun. There’s something satisfying about watching those frozen patties sizzle and turn golden brown in minutes.

So next time you’re staring into the freezer, wondering what’s for dinner, grab those frozen burgers. Pop them in the air fryer, set the timer, and enjoy a juicy, crispy, delicious meal—no thawing, no hassle, no regrets. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put frozen burgers in the air fryer without thawing?

Yes, you can cook frozen burgers directly in the air fryer—no thawing required! This method saves time and still delivers juicy, evenly cooked patties.

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

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the frozen burgers in a single layer, and cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Adjust time based on thickness and desired doneness.

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

Most frozen burgers take 12–18 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Thicker patties may need an extra 2–3 minutes. Always check internal temperature (160°F/71°C) for safety.

Do you need to add oil when cooking frozen burgers in the air fryer?

No, oil isn’t necessary since frozen burgers release their own fat during cooking. However, a light spray can enhance browning if desired.

Can you stack frozen burgers in the air fryer for faster cooking?

It’s best to avoid stacking to ensure even air circulation and cooking. If necessary, cook in batches or use a grill rack to separate layers.

Are air fryer frozen burgers healthier than grilled or pan-fried?

Yes! Air frying requires little to no added oil, reducing fat and calories compared to pan-frying. It also avoids flare-ups common with grilling.