Air-Fryer Turkey Burgers: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Turkey burgers are a great healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, and cooking them in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a tasty meal. Air fryers use hot air to brown and crisp the outside of the burger, leaving the inside juicy and moist, and preventing the meat from drying out. The cooking time for turkey burgers in an air fryer depends on the weight of the burgers, the number of burgers being cooked, and the model of the air fryer, but on average, it takes around 12 to 15 minutes to cook a turkey burger in an air fryer.

Turkey burger ingredients

Turkey burgers are a healthier alternative to beef burgers, and they are also easy to make. Ground turkey is the main ingredient, and you can choose between 93% lean ground turkey or a mix of light and dark meat.

To make the patties stay together, you will need a binder such as breadcrumbs, an egg, or mayonnaise. For flavour, you can add dried onion flakes, grated or minced onion, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, or even a bit of grated cheese.

Some recipes suggest adding apple or apple sauce to keep the burgers moist and juicy. You can also add a little olive oil, but this is not necessary as the air fryer will keep the burgers juicy without added oil or butter.

Once you have combined your chosen ingredients, form the mixture into equally sized patties and place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour to firm up before cooking.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The ideal temperature for cooking turkey burgers in an air fryer is 360 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 180 degrees Celsius. The temperature may also depend on the type of air fryer you have, so it is always good to check your user manual for the best cooking times and make adjustments if needed.

The cooking time for turkey burgers in an air fryer varies depending on the weight of the burgers and the number of patties being cooked. As a rule of thumb, for a 6-ounce patty, it will take about 12 minutes to cook in the air fryer, flipping the patty halfway through. For anything over 6 ounces, add an extra 3 minutes for each additional ounce.

It is important to note that the best way to check if your turkey burgers are cooked is by checking the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The minimum internal temperature for cooked turkey burgers is 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are cooking multiple patties, it is recommended to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.

If you are reheating leftover turkey burgers, place them in the air fryer for 4 to 5 minutes at 360 degrees Fahrenheit. If the patties are frozen, the reheating time increases to 8 to 10 minutes at the same temperature.

How to assemble the burger

Now that you've cooked your turkey burger patties in the air fryer, it's time to assemble your burger!

First, place the cooked patty on the bottom half of your bun. You can toast the bun in a toaster or in the air fryer if you like, but this is optional. If you want to add cheese, place a slice on top of the patty and close the air fryer for a minute or so to let the cheese melt in the residual heat. You can also try adding other melted cheeses like American or Swiss.

Next, add your desired toppings and sauces. Classic toppings include lettuce, sliced tomato, sliced red onion, and pickles. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, mustard, and ketchup. If you're feeling adventurous, try a Mediterranean-inspired patty topped with sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and pesto, or a taco-style burger with taco seasoning and lettuce wraps instead of buns.

Finally, place the top half of the bun on top of the toppings, and secure it with a toothpick if needed. Serve your burger with a side of your choice, such as potato wedges, sweet potato fries, roasted broccoli, or a tomato bacon green bean salad. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful, and healthy turkey burger!

Storing and reheating

Storing

Leftover turkey burgers should be stored in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Use clean utensils and containers to store your burgers to avoid any cross-contamination. You can also store them in the freezer to keep them fresh for longer. Before freezing, let the burgers cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Don't forget to label them with the date.

Reheating

When reheating, make sure your turkey burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to zap any harmful bacteria. You can use a microwave, oven, stovetop, or air fryer for reheating. Here are some specific instructions for each method:

• Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and reheat the burgers for 5-7 minutes on each side.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until the burgers are heated through.
• Air fryer: Reheat the frozen turkey burgers at 200°C/400°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. For thawed burgers, reheat at 350°F (180°C) for 4 to 5 minutes.

Toppings and sides

Air fryer turkey burgers are a quick, easy, and healthy meal option. The cooking time for these burgers in an air fryer is usually around 12 minutes, but this can vary depending on the weight of the patty. It is recommended to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Now, let's get to the fun part—toppings and sides!

Toppings

The right toppings can elevate your turkey burger experience. Here are some ideas to try:

• Avocado: Seasoned with cumin and lime juice, avocado adds a creamy texture and fresh flavor to your burger.
• Sprouts: Add some crunch and a healthy boost with fresh sprouts.
• Sautéed vegetables: Try soft-cooked shallots, sautéed tomatoes, and a dollop of fresh ricotta cheese for an Italian-inspired twist.
• Mushrooms and Swiss cheese: Sautéed mushrooms and shallots with Swiss cheese add a savory, earthy flavor to your burger.
• Caramelized onions: The sweetness of caramelized onions pairs beautifully with the savory patty.
• Grilled fruit: Grilled pineapple or peaches can add a juicy and unexpected twist to your burger.
• Guacamole: Bring some Tex-Mex flair to your burger with fresh guacamole.
• Aioli: Try different types of aioli, such as basil aioli or avocado mayo, for a creamy and flavorful addition.
• Pesto: Add a burst of herb-y flavor with pesto.
• Ketchup and mustard: Go for the classic duo of ketchup and mustard for a reason—they're a perfect match for burgers.

Sides

Sides are just as important as toppings when it comes to creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some side dish options to consider:

• Fries: Classic French fries or sweet potato fries cooked in an air fryer are always a delicious choice.
• Potato wedges: Air fryer potato wedges are a great family-friendly option and a perfect side to your burger.
• Salads: A bright and refreshing salad can balance out your meal. Try a Greek-inspired salad with feta, dill, and lemon, or a watermelon mint salad for something unique.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccolini make for tasty and healthy sides.
• Fingerling potatoes: Air fryer fingerling potatoes coated in garlic and herbs make for a savory and crispy side dish.
• Sweet potatoes: Sautéed sweet potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter are a delightful option.

Frequently asked questions