Air-Fried Hamburgers: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Making hamburgers in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a juicy burger without having to heat up the grill. It's faster and less messy than grilling, and you get the same grilled texture and taste thanks to the air circulation in the fryer. Plus, clean-up is a breeze!

Choosing the right ground beef

Fat Content

When selecting ground beef for air fryer hamburgers, it's important to consider the fat content. A blend of 80% lean muscle and 20% fat (often labelled as "80/20") is ideal. This ratio ensures that your burgers remain juicy without being too greasy. Leaner blends, such as 90/10, can be used but may result in drier patties, so be careful not to overcook them. If you're looking for an even richer flavour, you could opt for a slightly higher fat content, such as 70/30, but be aware that this may cause more shrinkage and produce more grease during cooking.

Freshness

Using fresh ground beef is recommended for the best results. While you can certainly cook with frozen ground beef or pre-made frozen patties, starting with fresh meat will give you more control over the seasoning, shape, and overall quality of your hamburgers. Fresh ground beef allows you to properly season the entire mixture and form patties that are the perfect size and thickness for your air fryer.

Quality

When it comes to ground beef, quality matters. Look for ground beef that is sourced from reputable butchers or grocery stores that prioritise meat quality. The difference in flavour and texture can be noticeable, especially when cooking a simple dish like hamburgers where the patty is the star of the show. If you have the option, choose ground beef that is freshly ground and has a bright red colour. Avoid meat that looks dull or has an off-putting odour.

Quantity

The amount of ground beef you'll need depends on how many hamburgers you plan to make and your desired patty size. For a standard-sized hamburger, you'll typically need around 1/4 pound to 1/3 pound of ground beef per patty. If you're making four hamburgers, aim for 1 to 1.5 pounds of ground beef. This will give you enough meat to form four evenly sized patties that will fit nicely in your air fryer.

Storage

If you're not using the ground beef immediately, proper storage is crucial to maintain its freshness. Keep the ground beef in its original packaging and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. Use it within a few days of purchase to ensure optimal freshness and flavour. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the ground beef, but be sure to portion it into patty-sized amounts first to make it easier when it's time to cook.

Seasoning

For a deeper, slightly salty flavour, you can add Worcestershire sauce to your beef mixture. You can also brush your burgers with BBQ sauce or mustard for an extra kick.

If you want to add cheese, do so during the last minute of cooking so it melts.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The air fryer temperature and timing are crucial factors in cooking hamburgers. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you get the best results:

Temperature Settings:

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for cooking hamburgers is between 370°F to 400°F (190°C). This temperature range will ensure your burgers cook evenly and achieve a nice sear on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

Cooking Time:

• The cooking time for hamburgers in an air fryer will depend on the thickness of your patties and your desired doneness. For a medium-rare burger (internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F), cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side. For a medium burger (internal temperature of 140°F to 145°F), cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• It is important to monitor the temperature of your burgers to ensure they don't overcook. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the patty. The ideal internal temperature for a medium-rare burger is 130°F to 135°F, while a medium burger should be cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F to 145°F.
• If you prefer your burgers well-done, cook them until the internal temperature reaches 160°F to 165°F. This may take an additional minute or two after the burger reaches the medium temperature range.
• Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and brand of your air fryer, as well as the thickness of your patties. Always check your burgers early and adjust the timing as needed to avoid overcooking.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Arrange the burgers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Flip the burgers halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and to allow the internal juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy burgers.
• If you're adding cheese to your burgers, do so during the last minute of cooking. The residual heat will melt the cheese, and you can close the air fryer for an additional minute if needed.
• Rest the burgers for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to settle, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Adding cheese

Choosing the Cheese

The first step is to select your cheese. Cheddar, Swiss, and American cheeses are classic choices for cheeseburgers, but feel free to get creative. You could try something like feta or blue cheese for a more distinctive flavour.

Sliced or Shredded?

You'll also need to decide whether to use sliced or shredded cheese. Sliced cheese is the traditional choice and works well, but shredded cheese has the benefit of melting more easily and evenly.

Timing is Everything

To achieve the perfect melt, it's important to add the cheese at the right time. Wait until the last minute or two of cooking to add your cheese. This will allow it to melt beautifully without burning. If you're using sliced cheese, you may need to add it a little earlier, but shredded cheese can be added with just 30-60 seconds left.

Let the Magic Happen

Once you've added the cheese, simply close the air fryer and let the residual heat work its magic. There's no need to turn the air fryer back on, as the existing heat will be enough to melt the cheese.

Customise Your Cheeseburger

Now for the fun part: customising your cheeseburger! You can experiment with different combinations of toppings, sauces, and seasonings to create your perfect burger. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Bacon: Crisp up some bacon in the air fryer for a smoky flavour.
• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the seasonings and top with pickled jalapeños.
• BBQ: Brush the burgers with BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky touch.
• Mediterranean: Try sliced tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese for a fresh, tangy bite.
• Mushrooms and Onions: Sautéed mushrooms and onions add depth and savouriness.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the key to a great cheeseburger is timing and creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and toppings to find your favourite combination. Enjoy your delicious air fryer cheeseburger!

Serving suggestions

There are endless ways to serve air fryer hamburgers, and you can get creative with toppings, sauces, and sides. Here are some ideas to inspire your next burger night:

Toppings and Sauces

• Cheese: Cheddar, Swiss, American, or any variety you like.
• Bacon: Crisp up some bacon in the air fryer for a smoky flavour.
• Avocado: Slice or mash some avocado for a creamy texture.
• Jalapenos: For an extra kick, add some pickled jalapenos.
• BBQ Sauce: Brush the burgers with BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavour.
• Fried Egg: Top your burger with a fried egg for a savoury treat.
• Sauteed Mushrooms: Add some extra umami with sauteed mushrooms.
• Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip: A creamy and tangy dip to pair with your burger.
• Mediterranean: Go for a fresh take with sliced tomatoes, chopped red onions, and crumbled feta cheese.

Sides

• French Fries: The classic side to any burger, especially when served with a side of aioli or ketchup.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and crispy alternative to regular fries.
• Air Fryer Corn on the Cob: A summery side that pairs well with the savoury burger.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy option to balance out the hearty burger.
• Greek Salad: Another refreshing option with vibrant colours and flavours.

Frequently asked questions