Air Fryer Burgers Recipe

Ground beef: The main ingredient, providing the base for your burgers. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best results.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the beef.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the patties.

Burger buns: The vessel for your delicious burgers, ready to be topped with your favorite condiments.

To ensure your burgers are juicy and flavorful, avoid overworking the ground beef when mixing in the salt and pepper. Overmixing can make the patties dense and tough. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated. Additionally, make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb before cooking. This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the air fryer.

• 80/20 blend ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can provide a similar texture and flavor when seasoned well.

• 80/20 blend ground beef - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is another lean alternative that can be used to make lighter burgers.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor and also provide the necessary saltiness.

• salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds a bit of extra flavor along with the saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used as a direct substitute.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat and a different flavor profile.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: Lettuce wraps are a low-carb alternative that can hold the burger and toppings.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns are a healthier option with more fiber and nutrients.

• Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the buns soggy.
• Wrap each burger patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their shape and prevents freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped patties in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store the burger buns separately in a bread bag or airtight container to keep them from drying out.
• For longer storage, freeze the burger patties for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed patties in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, increase the cooking time to 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.
• For a quick meal, you can also reheat the patties in a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though this may result in a less crispy texture.
• Refresh the buns by lightly toasting them in the air fryer or on a griddle for a minute or two before assembling your burger.
• Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and pickles just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover burger patties in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the burger patties in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

• If you prefer using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the burger patties in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.

• For a quick microwave method, place the burger patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.

• If you have a grill, preheat it to medium heat. Place the burger patties on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through. This method adds a nice charred flavor.

• To reheat in a toaster oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the burger patties on the rack or a baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes until thoroughly warmed.

• For a steaming method, place the burger patties in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain moisture.

• Air fryer: This is the main cooking appliance used to cook the burgers, providing a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper thoroughly.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the burger patties halfway through the cooking process.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the salt and pepper.

• Burger buns: These are the bread components that will hold the cooked patties and toppings.

• Tongs: Useful for safely placing and removing the patties from the air fryer basket.

• Plate: To place the cooked patties on before assembling the burgers.

• Knife: For slicing any additional toppings you may want to add to your burgers.

Pre-mix the seasoning: Combine the salt and pepper with the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Use parchment paper: Place the patties on parchment paper for easy transfer to the air fryer.

Preheat the air fryer: Start preheating the air fryer while you form the patties to save time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple patties at once if your air fryer basket is large enough.

Prep toppings in advance: Slice and prepare your favorite toppings while the patties are cooking.