Air Fryer Burgers Recipe

Ground beef: The main ingredient for the patties, providing the base flavor and texture.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the patties.

Burger buns: The vessel for your burger, providing structure and additional flavor.

Cheese: Optional, but adds a creamy, melty layer to your burger.

When forming the patties, make a small indentation in the center of each one. This helps the burgers cook more evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle.

• 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 black bean patties: For a vegetarian option, black bean patties offer a hearty texture and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of beef.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a depth of umami flavor and saltiness to the burgers.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice to the burgers.

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

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

• cheese - Substitute with avocado slices: Avocado slices add creaminess and healthy fats without the dairy.

• cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese provides a dairy-free alternative that can still melt and add flavor to the burgers.

• Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the buns soggy.

• Wrap each burger patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they stay fresh and prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped patties in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Store the burgers in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they can last up to 3 months.

• When ready to reheat, thaw frozen burgers in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and maintains the juiciness of the meat.

• Reheat the burgers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. If using cheese, add it in the last minute of reheating.

• For a quick reheat, you can also use a microwave. Place the burger patty on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover burger patties in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. If you want to add cheese, place a slice on each patty in the last minute of reheating.
• For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the burger patties in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through. Add cheese in the last minute if desired.
• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each burger patty in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. Add cheese in the last minute if you like.
• For a microwave method, place the burger patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Add cheese in the last 30 seconds if desired.

• Air fryer: This is the primary cooking appliance used to cook the burger patties evenly and quickly.

• 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.

• Knife: Useful for slicing cheese if you're not using pre-sliced cheese.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing cheese and any other toppings you might want to add.

• Tongs: Can be used to place the patties into the air fryer and to remove them once cooked.

• Plate: For assembling the burgers with buns and desired toppings.

Preheat while prepping: Save time by preheating the air fryer while you mix and form the burger patties.

Use parchment paper: Place a piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: If you need more than four burgers, prepare all patties at once and cook in batches.

Cheese ready: Have your cheese slices ready to add quickly in the last minute of cooking.

Prep toppings ahead: Slice and prepare all your burger toppings while the patties cook.