Air Fryer Burger Patty: How Long To Fry?

Air fryers are a great way to cook burgers, and they can be ready to serve in as little as 15 minutes. The air fryer's intense heat creates a fried taste without the need for deep frying and with very little oil. This makes the burgers crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The cooking time will depend on the size of your air fryer, the thickness of your patties, and how well done you like your burgers. As a guide, for a medium-rare burger, you should air fry for around 5 minutes, and for a well-done burger, you should air fry for around 10 minutes.

How to get the perfect patty thickness

The perfect patty is one with a tender, juicy texture and a shape that fits neatly within the bun. To achieve this, there are several steps you can take before and during the cooking process.

Firstly, when shaping the patty, it is important to handle the meat with care. Overworking the meat can result in a dry and crumbly texture, so it is best to only gently fold in any seasonings and avoid spending more than 30 to 45 seconds mixing. When shaping the patty, use cold meat straight from the fridge, and avoid using warm hands as this can cause the fat to melt too quickly during cooking, leading to a dry patty. Aim for a thickness of around 0.5 to 1 inch, and make the patty slightly larger than your bun to allow for shrinkage. You can also try making a small indentation in the centre of the patty with your thumb to prevent it from bulging or swelling during cooking.

Secondly, when cooking the patty, the method you choose will depend on your desired level of doneness. For a juicy, crispy texture, air frying is a good option. Preheat your air fryer to around 370°F to 400°F, and cook the patty for 6 to 7 minutes, flipping it halfway through. For a well-done patty, you may need to add an extra 2 minutes of cooking time. If you are cooking on a grill or stovetop, you can also create a crispy texture by smashing the patty during cooking.

Finally, to ensure your patty is cooked to your desired level of doneness, you can use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. For ground beef, the FDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 160°F for well-done. For medium-well, medium, and medium-rare, aim for 150-155°F, 140-145°F, and 130-135°F, respectively.

How to get the perfect patty shape

Now that you know how long to put your burger patty in the air fryer, it's time to focus on getting that perfect patty shape. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal patty shape:

Choose the Right Meat and Fat Ratio

Select ground beef with an 80/20 blend, which means 80% muscle and 20% fat. This ratio will keep your patties juicy without too much grease. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but be aware that your burgers might turn out a little drier.

Season Generously

Don't be shy when it comes to seasoning your meat. In addition to salt and pepper, try using garlic and onion powders, or even Worcestershire sauce, to give your patties a delicious savoury flavour. You can also add a dash of BBQ sauce to help with caramelisation and add extra flavour.

Use a Lid to Shape the Patty

To get that perfect, uniform patty shape, try using a lid from a jar or a small Tupperware container. Choose a lid that is slightly bigger than your hamburger bun and cover it with plastic wrap. Place your seasoned ground beef inside the lid and press it down to shape it into a patty. This method will give your patties neat edges and ensure they are the perfect size for your buns.

Make an Indentation in the Centre

After shaping your patties, use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the centre of each patty. This technique will prevent your patties from bulging up in the middle during cooking, helping them to cook evenly and fit better on your buns.

Refrigerate Before Cooking

Once you've shaped your patties, it's a good idea to refrigerate them for at least an hour before placing them in the air fryer. This will help the patties hold their shape and ensure they cook more evenly.

Don't Overwork the Meat

When mixing your ground beef and seasonings, be careful not to overwork the meat. Over-mixing can result in tough and dry burgers. Handle the meat gently and minimally, mixing for no more than 30 to 45 seconds.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to achieving the perfect patty shape for your air fryer burgers. Happy cooking!

How to get the perfect patty temperature

The key to getting the perfect patty temperature is to use a combination of the right cooking time, temperature, and tools. Here are some detailed instructions to help you achieve that perfect patty temperature:

• Preheat your air fryer: Depending on the recipe, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually between 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C).
• Prepare the meat mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground beef with your choice of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or steak seasoning. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon, being careful not to overwork the meat as it can make the patties tough and dry.
• Shape the patties: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties. The thickness of the patties will depend on your preference, but they are typically between 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indent in the center of each patty. This helps prevent the patties from bulging or puffing up during cooking.
• Place the patties in the air fryer: Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the patties in batches.
• Cook the patties: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your patties and your desired doneness. For a medium-rare burger, cook for about 5 minutes. For a medium burger, cook for about 6 minutes. For a well-done burger, cook for about 8-10 minutes. Flip the patties halfway through the cooking time.
• Check the temperature: To ensure your patties are cooked to your desired doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the center of the patty and make sure it reaches the recommended temperature:

• Rare: 120-130°F (52°C)
• Medium-rare: 130-140°F (54-60°C)
• Medium: 140-150°F (60-66°C)
• Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
• Well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above

• Add cheese (optional): If you want to add cheese to your patties, place a slice of cheese on top during the last minute of cooking. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly.
• Rest the patties: Once the patties are cooked to your desired temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful patty.
• Serve: Place the patties on buns or lettuce wraps, add your favorite toppings, and serve!

By following these steps and adjusting the cooking time and temperature to your specific air fryer and preferences, you can achieve the perfect patty temperature every time!

How to get the perfect patty seasoning

There are a few things to keep in mind when seasoning your burger patties to ensure they're full of flavour and perfectly seasoned. Firstly, it's important to not overwork the meat when adding the seasoning as this can make the burgers dense and tough. Gently form your patties, then lightly coat them in seasoning. You should also make sure your burgers are properly defrosted so that the seasoning will stick to the meat.

When it comes to the seasoning itself, a simple blend of spices can elevate the flavour of the beef without overwhelming it. A basic combination of salt and pepper with a dash of onion and garlic powder will work, but you can also add spices like paprika (both smoked and sweet), cayenne, and cumin for a more complex flavour profile. You can also add a hint of sweetness with some brown sugar. Experiment with different spices and seasonings to find your perfect blend, and don't be afraid to be generous with the seasoning—it will ensure your burgers are juicy and delicious!

If you want to make a larger batch of seasoning to use later, simply combine all your spices and store them in an airtight container. This way, you'll always have some seasoning on hand to elevate your burgers, or even other dishes like stir-fries, roasted vegetables, or meatloaf.

How to get the perfect patty toppings

Now that you know how long to put your burger patty in the air fryer, it's time to focus on the toppings. A great burger is all about the toppings, and with so many options to choose from, you can get creative and make your burger unique. Here are some ideas to help you build the perfect patty toppings:

Classic Toppings

You can't go wrong with the classics. The traditional toppings include lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. These toppings are always a welcomed addition to any burger and provide a refreshing crunch. If you want to take it up a notch, try caramelized onions for a sweet and savory flavor.

Cheesy Goodness

Cheese is a must-have topping for many burger enthusiasts. The options are endless, from cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese to more unique choices like blue cheese or feta. You can also get creative with cheese by adding a slice of pepper jack or goat cheese to your patty. Don't forget to let the residual heat from the air fryer melt the cheese to perfection!

Bacon Extravaganza

Bacon makes everything better, and burgers are no exception. Add some crispy, crunchy bacon to your burger for a satisfying texture and flavor contrast. You can even make it extra crispy if that's your preference.

Sauce Galore

Sauces can elevate your burger to the next level. From the classic ketchup, mustard, and mayo to more adventurous options, sauces add moisture and a burst of flavor. Try barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy garlic mayonnaise for a tangy kick. If you're feeling creative, make your own burger sauce by mixing mayo, ketchup, relish, and spices.

Fresh Veggies

Incorporate some fresh vegetables into your toppings to add a crunchy texture and a healthy twist. Sliced avocado, pickled onions or pickles, grilled tomatoes, or even onion rings can take your burger to the next level. If you're feeling adventurous, try zucchini pickles or spinach dip as toppings.

Egg-citing Addition

Eggs are not just for breakfast! Adding a fried egg on top of your burger creates a unique texture and flavor combination. It's like having brunch in a burger, and who doesn't love that?

Spicy Kick

Add some spice to your burger with jalapeños, either fresh or in the form of cowboy candy (candied jalapeños). You can also incorporate spicy sauces like chili mayonnaise or sriracha. If you're a fan of Buffalo wings, try a Buffalo mayo on your burger.

Sweet Surprises

Sweet toppings might seem unconventional, but they can take your burger to the next level. Try pineapple, which adds a tropical twist, or even bourbon peach jam for a unique savory-sweet combination.

Mediterranean Twist

Take inspiration from Mediterranean flavors and top your patty with sliced tomatoes, red onions, and crumbled feta cheese. You can also make a feta and cucumber sauce or a tzatziki sauce for a refreshing, tangy twist.

Remember, the sky's the limit when it comes to burger toppings. Get creative, experiment with different combinations, and most importantly, have fun building your perfect burger!

Frequently asked questions