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These Air Fryer Hamburgers deliver juicy, flavorful burgers quickly without the need for a grill or messy frying pan. The air fryer method locks in moisture while producing a perfect crust, making them a fantastic weeknight dinner or weekend treat any time of year.
I first tried this recipe when I didn’t have access to my outdoor grill, and now it has become my go—to for a fuss—free burger night that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: choose at least 85/15 fat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties and to avoid excess grease
- Salt: enhances the natural beef flavor
- Black pepper: adds a mild kick and rounds out seasoning
- Garlic powder: infuses a subtle garlic aroma without overwhelming the beef
- Onion powder: provides gentle sweetness and depth of flavor
- Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully over patties for a classic cheeseburger taste, pick quality sliced cheese or freshly shredded for best melt
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Not applicable for this recipe since the seasoning is mixed into the beef directly
- Prepare the Patties:
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until combined without overworking the meat — this helps keep patties tender.
- Shape the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into round patties about half an inch thick. Press a slight dent in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
- Preheat and Cook the Burgers:
- Preheat your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the patties into the basket making sure not to overcrowd for even cooking. Cook for 6 minutes.
- Flip for Even Cooking:
- Open the air fryer carefully and flip each patty to cook the other side. Continue cooking for 4 to 6 more minutes until the internal temperature hits 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safe doneness.
- Add Cheese and Melt:
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and close the air fryer. Let the cheese melt for about 1 minute. This step adds creamy richness to the burger.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Remove the patties from the air fryer and place on your favorite buns. Add any toppings you love such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, or mustard, and enjoy!
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My favorite part of this recipe is the simple seasoning which brings out the pure beef flavor without being overpowering. One family memory is how kids get excited flipping the burgers themselves in the air fryer, making dinner feel interactive and fun.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze cooked burgers by placing them in freezer—safe bags. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer. This way you always have burgers ready to enjoy in minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner burger option though it will cook faster and will need careful handling to keep moist. Swap cheddar for Swiss, American, or pepper jack cheese for varying flavor profiles. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky or spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside crisp air fryer potato wedges or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. Top with classic burger fixings like lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. Consider a toasted bun for extra texture contrast and flavor.
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These air fryer hamburgers are a quick, reliable way to get juicy, flavorful burgers with minimal fuss. They reheat well and make great leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How long to cook hamburgers in an air fryer?
Cook patties at 370°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- → What ground beef is best for air fryer patties?
Use lean ground beef with around 85/15 fat ratio to reduce grease and maintain juiciness.
- → Do the patties need to be flipped during cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway ensures even cooking and proper browning on both sides.
- → Can leftovers be stored safely?
Store cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- → How to add cheese during cooking?
Place cheese slices on patties after cooking, then air fry for 1 more minute to melt.