Air-Fryer Ground Beef: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Ground beef is a versatile dish that can be used in tacos, casseroles, and more. Cooking ground beef in an air fryer is a convenient and tasty way to prepare this dish. It is easy to do, with just a few simple steps, and results in tender, juicy meat with great flavour. The fat drains away from the meat as it cooks, making it healthier and also reducing the clean-up required.

Benefits of cooking ground beef in an air fryer

There are several benefits to cooking ground beef in an air fryer. Here are some of them:

Hands-off cooking

When cooking ground beef in an air fryer, you can simply put the meat in the basket, season it, and leave it to cook. This is in contrast to cooking on a stove, which usually requires more frequent stirring and attention. This makes air frying a more convenient and hands-off method.

Fat drainage

The air fryer basket's perforations allow fat to drain away from the meat during cooking. This means the meat isn't cooking in its own fat, resulting in leaner meat. Additionally, the fat is left behind in the basket when you lift it out, eliminating the need for straining or scooping, and making cleanup easier.

Fast and easy

Air frying ground beef is a quick and easy process that requires minimal hands-on time and less cleanup. It also cooks faster than other methods, with a pound of ground beef taking around 10 minutes to cook.

Flavorful and tender meat

Air frying produces flavorful, tender, and juicy ground beef compared to other cooking methods like sautéing or deep frying. The circulating air cooks the meat evenly, resulting in great texture and flavor.

Versatility

Air-fried ground beef can be used in various dishes, including tacos, pastas, breakfast meals, casseroles, chili, sloppy joes, wraps, and more. It's a versatile cooking method that can be applied to different types of ground meat, such as turkey or pork.

Even browning and consistent results

Air frying ground beef results in evenly browned and cooked meat. The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air ensures consistent cooking results, guaranteeing great texture and flavor every time.

Step-by-step instructions

Ingredients:

• Ground beef (fresh or frozen)
• Olive oil (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Spices/seasoning of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin)

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Air fryer basket
• Wooden spoon or meat chopper
• Slotted spoon
• Airtight container (for storage)

• If your ground beef is frozen, make sure you defrost it before cooking. Place the thawed ground beef into the air fryer basket.
• Break up the ground beef with a wooden spoon or meat chopper and spread it out as evenly as possible.
• Add a tablespoon of olive oil if you are using lean ground beef to prevent it from drying out.
• Season the meat with salt and black pepper, and any other spices or seasoning of your choice. You can also add diced onions or onion powder for extra flavor.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F/200°C for 3-5 minutes.
• Air fry the ground beef for 5 minutes.
• After 5 minutes, open the air fryer basket and stir, crumble, and break up the meat.
• Air fry for another 3-5 minutes, depending on how well you want the meat cooked. The meat is done when it is browned and there are no pink spots visible.
• Remove the basket from the air fryer and drain any remaining fat.
• Use the ground beef as desired. You can add taco seasoning and water to make taco meat, or use it in recipes such as tacos, pasta, casseroles, chili, etc.
• Store any leftover ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, or freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

How to store and reheat ground beef

Storing and reheating ground beef is a straightforward process. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Storing Ground Beef:

If you have cooked ground beef and want to store it, it is important to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it tightly and placing it in the freezer. Label the container with the date, and consume the frozen ground beef within two to four months.

Reheating Ground Beef in an Air Fryer:

To reheat ground beef in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F. While the air fryer is preheating, arrange the ground beef in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures even heating. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the basket into the air fryer and reheat the ground beef for 3-5 minutes. If you are reheating a large amount of ground beef, you may need to increase the time by a minute or two.

For best results, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ground beef. The ground beef is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips for Optimal Reheating:

• Preheat the air fryer before adding the ground beef to ensure even heating.
• If the ground beef is frozen, thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even heating.
• If the ground beef is drying out, add a small amount of moisture by placing a damp towel over the air fryer basket.
• Always follow food safety guidelines when handling and reheating ground beef.

Alternative Methods for Reheating Ground Beef:

If you do not have access to an air fryer, there are a few alternative methods you can use to reheat your ground beef:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F and wrap the ground beef in aluminum foil. Place it on a baking sheet and reheat for about 20 minutes or until the desired temperature is reached.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Sear the ground beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.
• Sous Vide: Vacuum-seal the ground beef and immerse it in a water bath set to the desired temperature. Reheat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the thickness of the ground beef.

Benefits of Reheating Ground Beef in an Air Fryer:

Reheating ground beef in an air fryer offers several advantages:

• Even Reheating: The hot air circulation in the air fryer ensures even heating and eliminates cold spots.
• Moisture Retention: The air fryer helps retain moisture, resulting in juicy and tender ground beef.
• Crispy Exterior: The air fryer can create a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist interior, adding a delightful texture to the reheated ground beef.
• Time Efficiency: Reheating in an air fryer is usually quicker than using an oven, taking only a few minutes.

Now you have all the information you need to store and reheat ground beef like a pro!

How to cook frozen ground beef in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen ground beef in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your appliance is ready for cooking and will help you achieve the optimal temperature for efficient cooking.

Prepare the Ground Beef:

Take the frozen ground beef out of its packaging and place it in a bowl. You can season the meat with your choice of spices, herbs, or marinade to enhance its flavor.

Shape the Beef into Patties:

Divide the ground beef into equal portions and shape them into patties of your desired thickness. Make sure the patties are uniform in size to ensure consistent cooking.

Arrange the Patties in the Air Fryer:

Place the patties in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they have sufficient space between them. This arrangement allows hot air to circulate freely around each patty.

Cook the Beef:

Cook the frozen ground beef patties for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the patties and the model of your air fryer.

Check for Doneness:

To ensure your meat is safe to consume, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the ground beef reaches 160°F (71°C).

Enjoy Your Meal:

Once your ground beef has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your meat is tender and juicy.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer:

Air fryers offer several advantages over conventional cooking methods. They are time-efficient, promote healthier cooking by reducing the need for oil, and are incredibly versatile, capable of cooking a wide range of dishes.

Recommended air fryers

Air fryers are a great alternative to cooking ground beef on the stove, as they require less stirring and attention, and offer an easier clean-up.

• Ninja Foodi Deluxe XL multicooker: This 8-quart or larger basket-style air fryer is perfect for cooking ground beef. It has a high capacity and can cook a large amount of ground beef at once.
• Ninja Dual Zone Air Fryer: Another great option from Ninja, this air fryer allows you to cook multiple types of ground beef at the same time, thanks to its dual-zone feature.
• Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer: While the author of one recipe has not used this model, they believe it should work just fine for cooking ground beef.
• Instant Pot: Although not a traditional air fryer, the Instant Pot can also be used to cook ground beef. It is a great option if you are looking for a multi-purpose appliance.

When choosing an air fryer, consider the capacity, features, and whether it is easy to clean. Additionally, some air fryers offer different cooking settings, which can be helpful if you plan to cook a variety of dishes.

Frequently asked questions