Tiffany Haney
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 them. Air-fried turkey burgers are juicy and tender, with a seared outside and a moist, flavourful inside. They can be cooked from fresh or frozen and are usually done in under 15 minutes. The ideal temperature for cooking turkey burgers in an air fryer is 360-375°F (180-190°C), and they are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Internal temperature | 165°F (74°C) |
| Temperature | 360°F - 375°F (190°C) |
| Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Flip halfway through | Yes |
| Preheat time | 3-5 minutes |
| Use of oil/butter | Optional |
| Seasoning | Salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs |
| Sides | Lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, bacon, sprouts, garlic sauce |
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What You'll Learn
Recommended cooking time and temperature
The recommended cooking temperature for turkey burgers in an air fryer is around 360–375 °Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the burgers will take around 12–15 minutes to cook, depending on the recipe.
Some recipes suggest cooking the burgers at 360 °F for 7 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for a further 5 minutes. Others suggest cooking at 375 °F for 6 minutes, flipping, and then cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the burgers, as well as the specific model of the air fryer. Therefore, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the burgers reach an internal temperature of 165 °Fahrenheit before serving. This is the temperature at which turkey is considered safe to eat.
To achieve the best results, it is recommended to flip the burgers halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. Additionally, some recipes suggest chilling the patties in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking to help them firm up and stay together during cooking.
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Achieving the right texture and moisture
Turkey burgers must be cooked to a temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is higher than other meats, and so turkey burgers are more prone to drying out. To avoid this, a meat thermometer is a useful tool to ensure the burgers are cooked correctly. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the burger and wait for a stable reading. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the burger and check that the juices are running clear.
To add moisture to the burgers, a little oil in the mixture will ensure the patties remain juicy. Olive oil is a good option, but other cooking oils such as canola oil will also work. Unsweetened apple sauce is a secret ingredient used by some to keep the burgers moist without adding extra oil. Grated fresh onion can also be added to the mixture to add moisture and flavour.
It is important not to overwork the meat, as this can affect the texture of the burgers. A light coat of oil or cooking spray on the burgers before cooking will also help to retain moisture.
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Using a meat thermometer
Wait for a few seconds for the temperature reading to stabilise. This is a much more accurate way to check if your burgers are done than judging by time, as all air fryers are different. It also prevents overcooking, which can cause the burgers to become tough and dry.
Allow the burgers to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps to lock in the juices and ensures the burgers are moist and tender.
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Preparing the turkey mixture
Next, you'll want to add your ingredients of choice to the ground turkey. A simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder will provide plenty of flavour, but you can also add ingredients like olive oil, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, breadcrumbs, or grated onion to keep your burgers moist and juicy. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add some secret ingredients like unsweetened apple sauce or a splash of tamari soy sauce. Mix the ingredients with a fork or your hands until they are fully combined.
Once your mixture is ready, it's time to shape your patties. Divide the mixture into four or more even portions and form them into flat patties about 1/2 inch thick. Remember that they will shrink during cooking, so don't make them too thin. If your mixture is sticky and hard to work with, use some parchment paper to help form the patties. You can also try adding an egg and some almond flour to the mixture to help bind it together.
Finally, place your patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour to help them firm up before cooking. This step will make it easier to handle the patties and ensure they stay together during the air frying process.
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Storing and reheating
It's important to handle your turkey burgers correctly to ensure food safety and maintain the best quality for future meals. Here are some detailed instructions on storing and reheating your air-fried turkey burgers:
Storing Cooked Turkey Burgers:
- Let the burgers cool: After air-frying, allow your turkey burgers to cool down to room temperature. Storing hot burgers can create steam, leading to sogginess and a higher risk of bacterial growth.
- Use airtight containers: Place the burgers in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Proper packaging ensures freshness and protects the burgers from absorbing odors or flavors from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate: Store the cooked turkey burgers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
- Labeling: Don't forget to label and date your containers to keep track of storage times.
Storing Uncooked Turkey Burgers:
- Keep uncooked turkey burgers in their original packaging and store them on a tray or plate to catch any leaks.
- Place them in the coldest part of your refrigerator, usually the back of the bottom shelf.
- Uncooked turkey burgers should be used within 1 to 2 days of purchase or frozen for later use.
Freezing Cooked or Uncooked Turkey Burgers:
- If you plan to store your turkey burgers for an extended period, freezing is a great option.
- Wrap the burgers tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place them in freezer bags.
- Label and date the packages, clearly marking them as "cooked" or "uncooked."
- Frozen turkey burgers can be stored for up to 4 months but are still safe to eat beyond that point.
Reheating Turkey Burgers:
- For the best results and to retain the juicy flavor, reheat your turkey burgers in the air fryer: Place the leftover turkey burgers in the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 350°F.
- Reheat for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the size of the burgers and your air fryer's power.
- If you're reheating from a frozen state, increase the time by a few minutes and ensure the burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- You can also reheat the burgers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Ensure the burgers are thoroughly reheated before serving, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F to eliminate any harmful bacteria.
- Enjoy your reheated turkey burgers with fresh toppings and sides!
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Frequently asked questions
Preheat your air fryer to 360-375°F. Then, cook the turkey burgers for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Turkey burgers should have an internal temperature of 165°F when they are ready. Use a meat thermometer to check. If you don't have a meat thermometer, you will need to cut into the burgers to check. They are done when they are cooked through and the juices run clear.
Turkey burgers need to be cooked to a temperature of 165°F, so you can't get away with undercooking them like you can with other meats. To prevent them from drying out, you can add olive oil or unsweetened apple sauce to the mixture.
