Air Fryer Hamburger Patty: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient and quick way to cook juicy and tender hamburger patties with a crispy exterior and a perfectly cooked interior. The magic of the air fryer is that it cooks the patties evenly and quickly, saving you time in the kitchen. You can also cook frozen hamburger patties in the air fryer, and even reheat them! The best part? Less mess to clean up at the end since you don't need to use any oil.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the process of cooking a hamburger patty. It ensures that your patty cooks evenly and efficiently. The ideal temperature to preheat your air fryer to is between 350°F and 400°F (approximately 175°C to 195°C). This temperature range is recommended by several sources and is said to produce juicy and tender patties.

To begin, set your air fryer to the desired temperature and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Different air fryers may have varying preheat times, so it is essential to refer to your air fryer's instructions or user manual for precise timings. While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your beef mixture and form it into patties.

For instance, one recipe suggests preheating your air fryer to 370°F before placing the patties in the basket. Another recommends a temperature of 350°F (175°C), while yet another suggests 400°F (195°C). These slight variations in temperature can be adjusted based on your personal preference and the specific model of your air fryer.

It is worth noting that the size and brand of your air fryer may also impact the cooking time and results. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to your air fryer's instructions and adjust the temperature or cooking time accordingly. Additionally, if you are cooking frozen patties, remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure thorough cooking.

Season the beef

To season the beef, combine the ground beef with your chosen seasonings in a medium-to-large mixing bowl. Be sure to mix the seasonings and beef lightly, and avoid packing the beef together too tightly.

There are a variety of seasoning options to choose from. A blend of salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder is a simple and tasty option. You can also add barbecue sauce to your beef mixture for extra flavor and to help with caramelization. Alternatively, you can use Montreal steak seasoning, or just salt and pepper for a more straightforward flavor profile. If you want to add a little extra kick, try adding some Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder to your mixture.

For the best results, it is important not to overwork the meat when mixing in the seasonings, as this can affect the texture of your burgers.

Form the patty

Forming the patty is a crucial step in the cooking process. It is important to ensure that the patty is not too thick or too thin, as this will affect the cooking time and the overall texture of the burger. A good rule of thumb is to form the patty to be about 3/4 of an inch thick, or between 1/2 an inch and 1 inch thick. This will ensure that the patty cooks evenly and thoroughly in the air fryer.

When forming the patty, it is also important to avoid overworking the meat. Gently combine the ground beef with your chosen seasonings and mix until just combined. Overworking the meat can make the patty tough and dry, so be sure to handle the meat with care.

To form the patty, take a portion of the meat mixture and gently form it into a ball. Then, use your hands to flatten the ball into a disc shape, pressing it down until it reaches the desired thickness. You can also use a plate to help flatten the patty and ensure an even thickness throughout.

Another important tip when forming the patty is to create a small indent in the centre with your thumb. This will help the patty maintain its shape during cooking and prevent it from swelling in the centre, resulting in a more evenly cooked burger.

Finally, for added flavour and colour, you can brush the patty with a mixture of melted butter and beef soup base, or barbecue sauce, before placing it in the air fryer. This step is optional but can enhance the taste and appearance of your burger.

Cooking time

The cooking time for hamburger patties in an air fryer depends on the size and brand of the air fryer, the thickness of the patties, and your preferred level of doneness. It is recommended to preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or 375°F. The cooking time for the patties is typically between 6 and 9 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. For a well-done burger, the FDA recommends an internal temperature of 160°F. If you prefer a medium-rare burger, use the freshest beef. Frozen burger patties will need an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking time.

To ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior, leave space between the patties in the air fryer basket and cook them in batches if necessary. The size of the air fryer will determine how many patties can be cooked at once. For a 2.8-quart basket-style air fryer, it is recommended to form the beef into four patties, each about 3/4 inches thick and 4 1/2 inches in diameter. The patties should be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

To prevent the patties from swelling in the center during cooking, press your thumb into the center of each patty before cooking. This will also help to ensure even cooking. For a simple seasoning, combine ground beef with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Alternatively, use Montreal steak seasoning or Worcestershire sauce for added flavor. Brush the patties with barbecue sauce before cooking, if desired.

After cooking, let the hamburger patties rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful. Air fryer hamburgers are a convenient and quick way to enjoy juicy and tender burgers without the mess and time of traditional grilling.

Reheating

Defrosting and Reheating Frozen Patties:

If you have frozen cooked patties, the best way to defrost and reheat them is in the air fryer. Simply place the frozen patties in the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 160°C/320°F. Cook for 5-10 minutes, depending on the number of patties and their thickness.

For chilled, cooked patties, you can use the air fryer to reheat them quickly. Preheat your air fryer to 160°C/320°F and place the patties in the basket. Reheat for 3-4 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

Tips for Even Cooking:

• Ensure there is space between the patties in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.
• Flip the patties halfway through the reheating process to ensure even cooking on both sides.
• Let the patties rest for a couple of minutes after reheating to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavourful.

Storing Leftovers:

To store leftover hamburger patties, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the patties in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Frequently asked questions