Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Cheeseburgers

Ingredients

Here I highlight my ingredient choices for my air-fried cheeseburger recipe, alternatives, and tips and tricks. For exact quantities and nutritional info, please scroll down to the printable recipe card.

• Ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness). 80% lean meat, and the “20” represents 20% fat. This fat content is ideal for burgers, as it provides enough moisture and flavor to keep the meat juicy while still holding together during cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. While it’s optional, minced fresh garlic adds a rich, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the juicy beef. You can use garlic powder instead.
• ½ small onion, finely chopped. Adding chopped onion to hamburger meat keeps the patties juicy and infuses them with a subtle sweetness and extra flavor.
• Fresh chopped parsley. Adding 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley enhances the burger’s flavor while also contributing to its juiciness by releasing natural moisture as it cooks.
• 1 Tablespoon soy sauce. Optional, it deepens the burger’s umami flavor and adds a savory richness that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. It brings a tangy, slightly sweet depth of flavor that enhances the savory taste of the burger, optional.
• Salt & pepper to taste (plus optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika)
• Cheese slices (cheddar, American, or your favorite).
• Burger buns, optional.
• Optional toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mayo, ketchup, mustard, etc.)

Air Fryer Hamburgers Cooking Times

The key to making the perfect air fryer cheeseburger is cooking it for just the right amount of time. Overcooking will leave your burger dry and tough, while undercooking could leave it raw or unsafe to eat. To ensure your air fryer cheeseburger is cooked to perfection, using a digital thermometer is essential. Insert the thermometer into the center of the patty and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for a well-done burger.

Based on my experience with the Ninja XL Air Fryer, here are the ideal cooking times for ¾-inch thick air fryer cheeseburgers:

• 4 minutes per side at 400°F for Medium-rare
• 5 minutes per side at 400°F for Medium
• 6 minutes per side at 400°F for Well-done

Remember to add an extra minute or two to melt the cheese after cooking—this time counts toward the total cooking time.

Tip: If your burgers are thicker or thinner, adjust the cooking time accordingly for the best results.

The best way to ensure that your air fryer cheeseburger is cooked to perfection is to use a digital thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of the burger and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71.1° Celsius)

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate air fryer cheeseburger, pair it with crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad. You can level up your burger with Air-fried Onion. Add your fave condiments like ketchup, mustard, or BBQ sauce to top it all off! Or go with Homemade Chipotle Mayo or Blue Cheese Sauce for a super rich and tasty combo.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen hamburger patties?
Yes, you can cook frozen hamburger patties in the air fryer! Season the Outside: Sprinkle your favorite seasonings (like salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a burger seasoning blend) directly on both sides of the frozen patties. You may need to increase the cooking time by 2–3 minutes per side, and be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 160°F.

2. Can I add toppings during cooking?
You can add cheese to the burger during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt perfectly. However, it’s best to add other toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles after the burger is done cooking to keep them fresh.

3. How do I make air fryer cheeseburgers juicy?
To keep your burgers juicy, add finely chopped onions to the ground beef mixture and avoid overcooking. Try adding a small cube of butter to the center of each patty for extra juiciness.

4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken for air fryer burgers?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but be mindful that they cook faster and can dry out more easily than beef. Make sure to check the internal temperature, and consider adding a bit of oil or broth to keep them moist.

5. What’s the best air fryer for making cheeseburgers?
A larger air fryer like the Ninja XL Air Fryer works great for making multiple burgers at once, but any air fryer with a basket that can fit your patties will work well for making cheeseburgers.

6. Can I cook other types of meat in the air fryer for burgers?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, lamb, or even plant-based patties in your air fryer. Just adjust the cooking times based on the type of meat used.