Air-Fried Burger Perfection: A Step-By-Step Guide

Air fryers are a great alternative to grilling burgers, producing juicy, tender, and flavorful results in half the time and with less mess. The key to a good air-fried burger is in the seasoning and knowing how long to cook it for. You can also add cheese, bacon, or an egg to your burger, and serve it with a side of fries.

Choosing the right type of beef

Fat Content

When selecting ground beef for air fryer burgers, it's important to choose a blend with the right amount of fat. An 80/20 blend is often recommended, as it keeps the patties juicy without excessive grease. The 80/20 ratio means the beef is 80% lean meat and 20% fat. This combination ensures your burgers stay moist and flavourful without becoming greasy.

Leaner Options

If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for 90% lean ground beef, as suggested by some air fryer enthusiasts. While this option reduces the fat content, it's important to add a small amount of olive oil to your mixture to keep the patties moist. Using olive oil is a healthier alternative to using more fatty ground beef, and it helps create that juicy texture we all love in a burger.

Freshness

It's always best to use fresh ground beef for your air fryer burgers. While frozen patties can be cooked in the air fryer, fresh beef tends to yield better results in terms of taste and texture. If you opt for frozen patties, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Quality

As with any dish, the quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference in the final product. Whenever possible, choose high-quality, freshly ground beef from a reputable butcher or grocery store. Look for beef that is bright red in colour and avoid packages with excessive liquid, which may indicate that the beef has been sitting for a while.

Storage

If you're not using the ground beef right away, proper storage is crucial. Keep it refrigerated and use it within a couple of days for optimal freshness. You can also freeze the ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before forming your patties and cooking them in the air fryer.

Experimentation

Don't be afraid to experiment with different blends of ground beef to find the one that suits your taste and cooking preferences. You may find that a slightly different ratio of fat to lean meat works best for your air fryer and your personal taste.

How to season your patty

The key to a delicious burger patty is in the seasoning. Here are some tips and tricks to help you create a mouthwatering patty for your air-fried burger:

Choose the Right Meat

Start with good-quality ground beef, preferably with a bit of fat to keep the patties moist and juicy. An 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal, but you can also use 90/10 or fattier cuts if you prefer. If you're looking for a healthier option, go for lean ground beef.

Basic Seasonings

Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavour of your patty. You can also add onion and garlic powder to the mix. Fresh onion and garlic may not cook properly in the air fryer, so it's best to stick to the powdered versions. Alternatively, you can use minced garlic instead of garlic powder.

Additional Ingredients

For a simple yet tasty addition, brush your patties with barbecue sauce before placing them in the air fryer. You can also add a dash of Worcestershire sauce and English mustard to your meat mixture for an extra kick of flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding smoked paprika, which will give your patties a subtle smoky taste.

Don't Overwork the Meat

When mixing your patty ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat. Over-mixing or compacting the meat too tightly can make your patties tough. Handle the meat as little as possible for the most tender burgers.

Create a Dimple

When shaping your patties, make a small indentation or dimple in the centre of each patty with your thumb. This will help the patties maintain their shape and prevent them from swelling during cooking.

Check Doneness with a Meat Thermometer

To ensure your patties are cooked to your desired level of doneness, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Here are the temperature ranges for different levels of doneness:

• Medium-Rare: 120 to 125°F (48.9 to 51.7°C)
• Medium: 130 to 135°F (54.4 to 57.2°C)
• Medium-Well: 140 to 145°F (60 to 62.8°C)
• Well-Done: 150 to 155°F (65.6 to 68.3°C)

Tips for Success

• If you're using frozen patties, add about 5 minutes to the cooking time.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the patties in batches if needed, ensuring there is some space around each patty.
• Check the doneness of your patties early to prevent overcooking.
• Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep them moist.

The best cooking temperature

The optimal temperature for cooking burgers in an air fryer depends on your desired level of doneness. The best way to check this is to use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the patties.

For a medium-rare burger, cook the patty to an internal temperature of 120 to 125°F. If you prefer your burger medium, aim for 130 to 135°F. An internal temperature of 140 to 145°F will give you a medium-well burger, while 150 to 155°F is ideal for a well-done burger.

Most recipes recommend cooking burgers in the air fryer at temperatures between 350°F and 400°F. At 400°F, for example, you can cook burgers for around 7 minutes on each side for a juicy, medium-well burger. At 350°F, you can cook for 10 minutes for a similar result.

It's important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the type of air fryer you have and the thickness of your burger patties. It's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific air fryer model. Additionally, different levels of doneness may be preferred, so adjust the temperature and timing accordingly.

To ensure your burgers are cooked to your desired level of doneness, it's recommended to use a meat thermometer and cook based on the internal temperature rather than relying solely on time. This will help you achieve the perfect burger every time, regardless of the variations in air fryer models and personal preferences for doneness.

How to avoid overcooking

To avoid overcooking your burgers in the air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to note that cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your burger patty and the model of your air fryer. Therefore, it is crucial to keep a close eye on your burgers while they are cooking and check them early to prevent overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the patty—for a medium-well burger, aim for an internal temperature of 150 to 155°F, and for a well-done burger, aim for 160 to 165°F.

Additionally, when shaping your patties, be sure to add a dimple in the centre of the patty with your thumb. This will prevent the patty from swelling in the centre during cooking, ensuring even cooking and reducing the risk of overcooking. It is also important not to overly mix or compact the meat when shaping the patties, as this can make the burger tough.

Furthermore, to prevent your burgers from drying out, you can spritz them lightly with water or oil before cooking. This will help retain moisture. Also, be sure to leave some space between the patties in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation, and do not overcrowd the basket.

Lastly, if you are reheating leftover burgers, it is best to remove any perishable toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, or sauces before placing the burgers in the air fryer. You can always add these toppings back after reheating to ensure they remain fresh.

What to serve with your burger

Now that you've mastered the art of making burgers in an air fryer, it's time to think about what to serve with them. Here are some ideas to elevate your burger night and impress your guests:

Potato Sides

• Grilled Baked Potatoes: Throw some russet potatoes on the grill alongside your burgers. They'll come out with crispy skin and are a convenient, tasty side dish.
• Air Fryer French Fries: These are a healthier option as they require very little oil, and they always turn out crispy.
• Air Fryer Potatoes: A healthier alternative to deep-fried potatoes, these potatoes have a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. They're quick to prepare and can be ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Oven-Baked Potato Chips: A classic, crispy, and flavorful option made with just a handful of ingredients.
• Baked Potato Wedges: Perfectly seasoned and crispy yet fluffy, these are a simple side that never disappoints.
• Baked Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier option that still hits the spot for comfort food. They're quick to prepare and have the right texture and flavor.
• Hasselback Sweet Potatoes: A unique way to serve sweet potatoes. Each slice is brushed with a butter spread, resulting in soft slices with crispy golden edges.
• Garlic Smashed Potatoes: Seasoned with garlic and rosemary and roasted in the oven, these crispy potatoes will be a delicious companion to your burgers.

Salads and Slaws

• Red Cabbage Slaw: The vibrant red cabbage paired with a zesty vinaigrette creates a delicious and simple side dish.
• Healthy Coleslaw: A classic, tangy, and creamy side dish made with Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
• Chopped Green Goddess Salad: Made with crisp green cabbage, cucumbers, and a homemade green goddess dressing, this salad is a refreshing addition to your burger spread.
• Fresh Garden Salad: A simple house salad with a combination of crunchy fresh vegetables and romaine lettuce tossed in a light, zesty citrus vinaigrette.
• Corn, Tomato, and Avocado Salad: This simple yet flavorful recipe is quick and easy, with all the summer favorites in one bowl.
• Broccoli Salad: A creamy salad with tender-crisp florets, toasted sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries in a sweet and tangy dressing.
• Lebanese Cabbage Salad: A vibrant, delicious, and easy salad that comes together in just 10 minutes.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad: A perfect balance of sweet and savory, with salty feta, crunchy almonds, and a fresh basil vinaigrette.
• Watermelon and Feta Salad: A colorful and refreshing summer salad with a sweet-and-salty taste.

Cold Hearty Sides

• Mustard Potato Salad: A lightened-up potato salad with a dressing made from Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard.
• Healthy Egg Salad: Sometimes, a classic egg salad is all you need to round out your burger meal.
• Red Kidney Bean Salad: A flavorful, nutritious, and rich salad made with basic pantry ingredients and three types of beans.
• Italian Pasta Salad: A simple yet delicious pasta salad with fresh veggies, mozzarella, and a zesty Greek yogurt dressing.
• Vegan Macaroni Salad: A crunchy and tangy vegan pasta salad with a combination of veggies and al dente noodles.
• Macaroni Egg Salad: A creamy, tangy, and delicious salad with a yogurt-based dressing.
• Chickpea Salad: Loaded with fresh veggies, texture, and nutrition, this salad is a great option when looking for something quick and easy.
• Cauliflower Potato Salad: A low-carb alternative to traditional potato salad, this cauliflower salad will be a game-changer.

Warm Sides

• Creamed Corn: A simple side that doesn't require a lot of hands-on time. It's quickly made on the stovetop and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic: A tasty side that can be tucked into your burger or served on the side.
• Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food that offers cheesy goodness and nostalgic appeal.
• Instant Pot Baked Beans: Smoky and sweet baked beans made with the help of your pressure cooker.
• Roasted Cauliflower Au Gratin: A modern twist on a classic, this side is flavorful, comforting, and sophisticated.

Healthy Sides

• Zucchini Salad: A simple and quick raw zucchini salad that is fresh, vibrant, and nutritious.
• Grilled Romaine Lettuce: Sometimes, a simple platter of grilled romaine hearts is all you need. It's smoky and lightly charred, brushed with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Baked Zucchini Fries: A healthier alternative to French fries, these zucchini fries are a great option to serve with your burgers.
• Air Fryer Broccoli: Crispy florets and tender stems with the perfect amount of seasoning make this a delicious and healthy side.
• Grilled Veggie Kabobs: A tasty and easy way to add a healthier spin to your burger night.
• Roasted Cauliflower Steaks: A unique and excellent pairing with burgers, these cauliflower steaks are topped with flavorful chimichurri sauce.
• Rutabaga Fries: A low-carb alternative to potato fries, these rutabaga fries have a similar shape and consistency.

Frequently asked questions