Air Fryer Ground Meat: Is It Possible?

Ground meat can be cooked in an air fryer and it is a simple, quick, and easy way to prepare it. The fat drains to the bottom of the air fryer, leaving the meat tender and flavourful. It can be seasoned and used in a variety of dishes such as tacos, pasta, salads, and more.

How to cook ground meat in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to cooking ground meat on a stovetop. Not only is it faster, but it's also healthier as the fat drains away from the meat as it cooks. This method is also versatile, as you can season the meat in many ways and use it in a variety of dishes.

What you'll need:

• An air fryer (basket-style works best)
• Ground meat (beef, veal, or lamb)
• Spices/seasonings of your choice (e.g. salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin)
• A wooden spoon/spatula or meat chopper
• Cooking spray (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to between 375˚F and 400˚F. If your air fryer doesn't have a preheat setting, set the temperature to 400˚F and let it run for 5 minutes.
• Place the ground meat into the air fryer basket. Use a wooden spoon, spatula, or meat chopper to break up the meat and spread it out evenly.
• Air fry the meat for 5 minutes.
• Open the air fryer basket and stir/crumble the meat. If needed, break up any remaining lumps of meat.
• Air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the meat is cooked to your desired level.
• Remove the basket from the air fryer and drain any remaining fat.
• Season the meat to taste and serve as desired.

Tips:

• If using frozen ground meat, thaw it fully before cooking.
• Depending on the type of dish you're making, you can add spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, or dried oregano.
• For taco meat, add a packet of taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning, along with ¼ cup of water, and mix well.
• For leaner meat, add a tablespoon of water or sauce to the meat if it becomes dry.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-6 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Benefits of cooking ground meat in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to cooking ground meat, offering several benefits over traditional stovetop methods. Here are some reasons why you may want to consider using an air fryer for your next meal:

Fast and Easy:

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is the reduced cooking time. Air fryers can cook ground meat in about 10 minutes or less, which is significantly faster than stovetop methods. The process is also straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps. You can have a delicious, quick meal ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Healthier Option:

Air frying produces healthier ground meat compared to other cooking methods like sautéing or deep frying. As the meat cooks, the excess fat drains to the bottom of the air fryer, resulting in ground beef that is not sitting in excess oil or grease. This method ensures you consume less fat without compromising on taste and texture.

No Fuss and Less Clean-up:

Air fryers require very little hands-on time and attention during the cooking process. You don't have to constantly stir or monitor the meat, freeing up your time for other tasks. Additionally, there is no splatter or mess associated with air frying, making clean-up a breeze. Just a simple wipe-down of the air fryer basket is usually sufficient.

Versatile and Delicious:

Air-fried ground meat is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including tacos, pasta, salads, nachos, casseroles, and more. The air fryer also ensures your meat is evenly cooked and browned, resulting in a delicious, consistent texture. You can also easily customise the seasoning to suit your taste preferences and the dish you're preparing.

Convenience and Consistency:

Air fryers are incredibly convenient as they don't require constant monitoring. You can prep your ground meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge, ready for a quick meal. Air fryers also provide consistent results, so you can trust that your meat will be perfectly cooked every time, with no under or overcooked spots.

With its speed, convenience, and versatility, cooking ground meat in an air fryer is an excellent option for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste and health. It's a great way to make delicious, healthy meals with minimal fuss.

What type of ground meat to use

When it comes to choosing the type of ground meat to use in an air fryer, there are a few options to consider. Here are some detailed suggestions:

Beef

Ground beef is a versatile option that can be used in various dishes such as tacos, pasta, burgers, and more. It is recommended to use lean ground beef with an 85/15 mixture, as this will give your dish a good balance of flavour and juiciness without being too greasy. If you are unable to find ground beef with this specific fat ratio, you can always add a tablespoon of olive oil to leaner beef to prevent it from drying out.

Veal or Lamb

As an alternative to beef, ground veal or lamb can also be cooked in an air fryer. These options will provide a different flavour profile to your dish and are worth experimenting with if you want to try something new.

Turkey or Pork

If you are looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or pork can be a great choice. These types of ground meat are perfect for those who want to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing flavour. The cooking method for turkey or pork is the same as for beef, and you can season them according to your preference.

Seasoning

Regardless of the type of ground meat you choose, seasoning is key to enhancing the flavour of your dish. You can use store-bought seasoning mixes, such as taco seasoning, or create your own blend using spices like paprika, cumin, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favourite flavours.

In summary, when choosing the type of ground meat to use in an air fryer, consider the desired flavour and fat content of your dish. Beef, veal, lamb, turkey, and pork are all viable options, each offering its own unique characteristics. By selecting the right type of meat and seasoning it appropriately, you can create delicious and healthy meals that your family will love.

How to use cooked ground meat in recipes

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for how to use cooked ground beef in your recipes:

Tacos, Burritos, and Nachos

A very common use for ground beef is in Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, burritos, nachos, and enchiladas. You can season the meat with taco seasoning, or a mix of cumin, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. Top with cheese, sour cream, and salsa, and serve with tortilla chips or in a tortilla wrap.

Pasta Dishes

Ground beef can be used in a variety of pasta dishes, from spaghetti bolognese to stuffed shells, lasagna, or pasta salads. Try mixing it with tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and spices, and serving it over your favorite type of pasta.

Soups and Stews

Ground beef is a great base for hearty soups and stews, such as chili, cheeseburger soup, or hamburger stew. It adds flavor and substance to these dishes, which are perfect for cold winter nights.

Casseroles

Casseroles are a great way to use ground beef, as they often require minimal preparation and can be made in large batches. Try a taco casserole, a beef and potato casserole, or a million-dollar spaghetti bake with ground beef, cheese, and other tasty ingredients.

Meatloaf and Meatballs

Meatloaf and meatballs are classic comfort foods that can be made with ground beef. You can form the meat into patties or a loaf and bake it in the oven, or try making it in your air fryer! Season with garlic, onion, and herbs, and serve with a tomato-based sauce.

Stuffed Vegetables

Ground beef can be used as a filling for stuffed vegetables, such as stuffed peppers or cabbage rolls. Mix the meat with rice and spices, and cook until the vegetables are tender.

Other Ideas

• Sloppy Joes: A classic, easy-to-make sandwich that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
• Shepherd's Pie: A hearty dish with a layer of ground beef and vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes.
• Chili Mac: A combination of chili and macaroni, this dish is comforting and can be made in just one pot.
• Baked Beans: Add ground beef to baked beans for a hearty side dish or main course.
• Hamburgers: Form the ground beef into patties and grill or fry them for a classic summer dish.

Storing and reheating cooked ground meat

Storing Cooked Ground Meat:

• Allow the cooked ground meat to cool completely before storing.
• Store the meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume the meat within 4-6 days for optimal freshness and food safety.
• Alternatively, you can freeze cooked ground meat. Again, allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to two months.

Reheating Cooked Ground Meat:

• You can reheat the ground meat in the microwave, ensuring it is heated evenly throughout. Rotate your dish halfway through the heating process if your microwave doesn't have a turntable.
• Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the reheated meat. According to the USDA, it should reach 165°F to eliminate harmful bacteria.
• If reheating in the air fryer, sprinkle some water or add a sauce to the meat to prevent it from drying out.

Frequently asked questions