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Craving a juicy, perfectly cooked burger? Say goodbye to greasy stovetop messes and hello to the easiest way to cook a burger: in the air fryer! This air fryer burger recipe is quick, delicious and delivers that mouthwatering burger experience with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a classic beef burger or swapping it out for a leaner air fryer turkey burger, this method provides a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful inside.
Why Make an Air Fryer Burger?
Cooking a burger in the air fryer has become a game-changer for many home cooks. Not only is it a hassle-free way to enjoy a homemade burger, but it also ensures even cooking without the need for constant flipping or dealing with excess grease.
Air frying offers several benefits that make it an excellent choice for burgers. First, it requires little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to pan-frying. Cleanup is minimal, with no greasy splatters or smoky kitchen to worry about.
It’s also quick and convenient—no need to heat up the grill or preheat the oven; simply pop the patties into the air fryer and let it do the work. The circulating hot air ensures that every burger patty is perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
Plus, these ground beef burgers are a clean protein option, making them weight-loss-approved. Each serving counts as one and a half PowerFuels and one Extra on your Nutrisystem meal plan.
How to Cook a Burger in the Air Fryer
Making air fryer burger patties is incredibly simple. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality burgers ready in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Lean ground beef (90%) for a juicy but lower-fat option
- Worcestershire sauce for a deep umami flavor
- Garlic powder and onion powder for a hint of seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Mix and Shape the Patties – In a bowl, gently combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce and seasonings. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough. Divide into four equal portions and shape them into patties.
- Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 350°F and let it preheat for about five minutes.
- Cook the Burgers – Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about six to seven minutes, then flip and cook for another six to seven minutes or until your desired doneness is reached.
- Rest and Serve – Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.
Customizing Your Air Fryer Burger
One of the best things about this air fryer burger recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste. Here are some ways to switch it up:
Try Different Proteins
- Air Fryer Turkey Burger – Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option with just as much flavor.
- Chicken Burgers – Ground chicken makes for a delicious and healthier alternative.
- Veggie Burgers – Use your favorite plant-based burger patties and cook them using the same method.
Note that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the type of burger that you’re making.
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy surprise inside.
- Add finely chopped onions or mushrooms to the mix.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
- Stir in minced garlic for a savory kick.
- Add chopped jalapeños for some heat.
- Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro or basil for added freshness.
- Add grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients.
- Crumble in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch.
- Fold in diced pickles for a tangy twist.
- Experiment with a spoonful of barbecue sauce or mustard for added zing.
Topping Ideas
Make your burger a showstopper with these tasty toppings:
- Classic – Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions and cheese
- Gourmet – Caramelized onions, arugula, blue cheese and fig jam
- Spicy – Jalapeños, pepper jack cheese and sriracha mayo
- Tex-Mex – Guacamole, pico de gallo, tortilla strips and chipotle mayo
- Breakfast – Fried egg, bacon, avocado and hash browns
- Mediterranean – Feta cheese, roasted red peppers, olives and tzatziki sauce
- Sweet and Savory – Grilled pineapple, bacon, BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese
- Veggie Deluxe – Grilled zucchini, roasted mushrooms, spinach and hummus
Seasonal Variations
Take advantage of seasonal ingredients to make your burgers extra special:
- Summer – Load up on fresh veggies, grilled pineapple or homemade guacamole.
- Fall – Try a turkey burger with cranberry sauce and brie.
- Winter – Go for a comfort-food twist with bacon and cheddar.
- Spring – Fresh herbs and light sauces like tzatziki pair perfectly.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Burger Patties
A burger is only as good as its sides! Pair your air fryer burger with:
- Air Fryer French Fries – Make crispy homemade fries for the ultimate combo.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative with a hint of sweetness.
- Side Salad – Keep it light with a fresh garden or Caesar salad.
- Grilled Vegetables – Roasted peppers, zucchini or mushrooms make a great addition.
- Onion Rings – Crispy and golden, they’re a classic burger companion.
- Coleslaw – Add a creamy, tangy crunch to your meal.
- Mac and Cheese – A comfort-food favorite for a hearty side.
- Pickles – A tangy, zesty bite to complement your burger.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or air-fried, it’s always a hit.
- Potato Wedges – Thick, seasoned, and oh-so-delicious.
The Ultimate Air Fryer Burger Patties Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful and Easy!
Making an air fryer burger is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy a homemade burger without the hassle. Whether you’re whipping up a classic beef burger or trying an air fryer turkey burger for a healthier option, this method delivers amazing results every time. With endless customization options and simple cleanup, there’s no reason not to add this recipe to your regular rotation.
Give this air fryer burger patties recipe a try, and experiment with your favorite toppings and side pairings! Happy cooking!
*Please note that all air fryers cook differently. Before trying any recipe, always refer to the manufacturer safety instructions provided with your specific air fryer.
Servings: 4 (1 serving = ¼-lb. or 4 oz. burger patty)
Calories per Serving: 206
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 ½ PowerFuels and 1 Extra
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. 90% lean ground beef
- 1 Tbsp. worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. onion powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. pepper
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a patty about ½-inch thick.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
- Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-7 minutes.
- Flip the patties and cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Remove the patties from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings and sides!
- *Please note that all air fryers cook differently. Before trying any recipe, always refer to the manufacturer safety instructions provided with your specific air fryer.