Air-Frying Impossible Burgers: The Perfect Timing Guide

Impossible burgers are plant-based patties that can be cooked in an air fryer. They can be cooked from frozen or fresh, with cooking times varying depending on the air fryer model and the number of patties being cooked. The cooking time for fresh patties is generally between 9 and 15 minutes, while frozen patties may take a little longer.

Cooking times for frozen vs. fresh Impossible Burgers

Impossible Burgers are made from plants and are therefore vegan and plant-based. They are designed to be just as easy to cook with as ground beef from cows. You can cook Impossible Burgers from frozen, but it is not recommended. For the best results, Impossible Burgers should be thawed before cooking. To thaw, it is recommended to put the frozen burger in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw underwater.

If you are cooking a fresh Impossible Burger in an air fryer, you should cook it for 5 minutes at 380°F/190°C, and then carefully flip the patty and continue cooking for 4-6 minutes, or until cooked through. The internal temperature of the patty should reach 160°F. The total cooking time should be around 9-11 minutes, but you can adjust according to your preferences.

If you are cooking a frozen Impossible Burger in an air fryer, you should increase the cooking time to 14-15 minutes, flipping the patty after 8 minutes. You can also try placing the frozen patty in the air fryer during the preheat so that it heats up more slowly.

Impossible Burgers can also be cooked in an oven or fry pan. The cooking time is similar to that of ground beef, but the burger may come out more well done than desired.

How to form Impossible ground meat into patties

To form Impossible ground meat into patties, start by dividing 12 ounces of the meat into three or four equal-sized portions. Avoid overworking or densely packing the meat, as this will make it harder to shape and cook the patties. Instead, loosely form the portions into thick, puck-shaped patties, at least 3/4-inch thick. You can use a circular mould or a knife to portion the meat and then roll each portion into a ball before flattening it into a round patty.

Once you have formed your patties, season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. You can also get creative with other seasonings and spices, such as garlic powder and Cajun seasoning. If you want to add some texture and flavour, try mixing in some diced onions, peppers, or even eggs and beef. For a vegan option, use vegan cheese or plant-based grounds to form your patties.

If you're making smash burgers, you can top each patty with thinly sliced onions and then use a heavy cast-iron grill press or a metal spatula to smash the patties into thin, crispy, caramelized patties. This technique creates a classic smashburger texture and flavour. However, make sure not to over-smash the patties, as they may stick to the pan or grill during cooking.

Finally, if you're cooking your Impossible Burger patties in an air fryer, place them in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each patty to ensure even cooking. A light spritz of vegetable spray or oil will help the patties develop a nice crust during cooking. Depending on your air fryer and whether your patties are frozen or fresh, cook them for 9 to 15 minutes at 375°F to 400°F, flipping them halfway through.

The best oil to use for Impossible Burgers

When cooking Impossible Burgers, the type of oil you use can vary depending on the cooking method and your personal preference. Here are some options for the best oil to use when cooking Impossible Burgers in an air fryer:

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular choice for cooking Impossible Burgers. It has a relatively high smoke point, making it suitable for high-heat cooking. Brush the cut side of the buns with olive oil and place them in the air fryer to achieve a toasted texture and flavour.

Vegetable Oil or Spray

Vegetable oil is versatile and suitable for various cooking methods, including air frying. Spraying the air fryer basket with vegetable oil or using a vegetable oil spray ensures an even coating and helps to prevent the burgers from sticking.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is known for its high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking. It has a neutral flavour that won't overpower the taste of the Impossible Burgers. Avocado oil spray can be used for convenience and to ensure a light and even coating.

Canola Oil

Canola oil is another option with a neutral flavour and a relatively high smoke point. It is suitable for cooking Impossible Burgers, especially when using a stovetop or grill, as it can withstand higher temperatures without smoking.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a distinct flavour and aroma that can enhance the taste of Impossible Burgers. However, it is important to note that coconut oil melts at room temperature, so it may not be the best choice if your burgers are at room temperature or if your cooking surface is not hot enough.

When cooking Impossible Burgers in an air fryer, a light spritz or brushing of oil is usually sufficient. Experiment with different oils to find the one that best suits your taste preferences and cooking methods. Remember to follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures for Impossible Burgers in an air fryer to ensure the best results.

How to get a nice crust on your Impossible Burger

To get a nice crust on your Impossible Burger, you'll want to cook it for around 5 minutes on each side. The exact cooking time will depend on your air fryer model, the thickness of your patties, and whether you are cooking from frozen. For a fresh patty, set your air fryer to 380°F and cook for 5 minutes. Then, carefully flip the patty and continue cooking for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

If you're cooking from frozen, you can either thaw the patties first or cook them straight from frozen. If you choose to thaw the patties, the cooking time will be the same as for fresh patties. If you cook them straight from frozen, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8 minutes. Then, flip the patties and continue cooking for 3 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

To ensure even cooking and a nice crust, it's important to lay the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with space between each patty. You can also spray the patties with oil before cooking to help them get a nice crisp on the outside.

Additionally, seasoning your patties with salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice can enhance the flavour and crust formation. Some popular seasoning options include garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, chili flakes, and dried herbs.

The best temperature to cook Impossible Burgers at

When cooking Impossible Burgers in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 375°F/190°C or 400°F. Once the desired temperature is reached, the burgers should be cooked for 5 minutes and then flipped. They should then be cooked for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This two-stage cooking process helps to ensure a juicier final product.

If cooking Impossible Burgers on a grill, it is recommended to preheat the grill to between 350°F and 400°F (177°C and 204°C). The burgers should then be cooked for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a nice sear is achieved.

For those who prefer their Impossible Burgers with a crispy exterior, a higher temperature of 400°F in the air fryer is recommended. This will result in a quicker cooking time, so it is important to keep a close eye on the burgers to avoid overcooking.

It is worth noting that cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on the brand of Impossible Burger and the method of cooking. It is always important to ensure that Impossible Burgers, and any other plant-based proteins, are properly cooked to avoid food safety issues.

Frequently asked questions