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These Air Fryer Hamburgers are a quick, easy, and juicy way to enjoy your favorite sandwich without needing a grill. They cook perfectly in the air fryer with minimal fuss and come out moist and full of flavor every time. This recipe saves you from dealing with greasy splatters and gets dinner on the table fast, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last minute meals.
I first tried making these during a busy workweek when I didn’t want to fire up the grill. Now they have become my go to method for burgers because the texture and flavor are consistently great without any hassle.
Ingredients
- One pound ground beef: choose 85/15 lean to fat ratio for juicy but not greasy burgers
- Salt: essential for seasoning and enhancing the beef's natural flavor
- Pepper: adds a mild spicy kick and balances the seasoning
- Garlic powder: gives a subtle savoriness that elevates the burger
- Onion powder: adds depth and richness with gentle onion flavor
- Cheddar cheese slices: melts perfectly over the hot patties for that creamy finish use a good quality block cheese for best taste and meltability
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat fully. Preheating ensures that the burgers cook evenly and quickly from the start.
- Mix and Season the Meat:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
- Form the Patties:
- Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties. Press a slight dent in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking and help them cook evenly.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Place the patties into the preheated air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for six minutes on one side.
- Flip and Continue Cooking:
- Open the air fryer, carefully flip each patty, and cook for an additional four to six minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
- Add Cheese and Melt:
- Place one slice of cheddar cheese on top of each burger in the air fryer. Close the basket and allow the cheese to melt for about one minute.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Remove the burgers from the air fryer and place them on buns. Dress with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, or condiments. Serve immediately.
One family memory with this recipe is how my kids now beg for air fryer burgers on game nights because they think they taste better than grilled ones!
Storage tips
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For freezing, cool the cooked burgers completely then place them in freezer safe bags or containers. Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer to avoid drying out.
Ingredient substitutions
If you prefer ground turkey or chicken they can be used but expect a leaner, less juicy burger consider adding a little olive oil or finely chopped onion to maintain moisture. For cheese try pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Serving suggestions
Serve with toasted buns and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Add classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo. Pair with air fryer potato wedges or a crisp salad to complete your meal.
These air fryer hamburgers are a quick and reliable weeknight meal that come out juicy every time. Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to make the recipe your own.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How long to cook hamburgers in an air fryer?
Cook the patties for about 10 to 12 minutes at 370°F, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- → What type of ground beef is best?
Lean ground beef with an 85/15 ratio is recommended to reduce grease while keeping flavor.
- → Should the air fryer be preheated?
Yes, preheating the air fryer to 370°F ensures even cooking and faster results.
- → Is flipping the patties necessary?
Flipping halfway through cooking helps achieve an even crust and thorough doneness.
- → How to store leftover hamburgers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.