If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger but don’t want to fire up the grill or make a mess on the stovetop, the air fryer can be your new best friend. The big question is—how long should you cook hamburgers in an air fryer, and at what temperature? The short answer is: cook your hamburgers at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, depending on the thickness and how well-done you want them. Let’s dig deeper into the timing, technique, and tips to get perfect air-fried burgers every time.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Hamburgers?
I started using the air fryer for burgers on busy weeknights, and it quickly became my go-to method. Not only is it faster and cleaner than traditional methods, but it also keeps the meat tender with a slightly crisp exterior. Plus, there’s no need to babysit a hot skillet or worry about flare-ups from the grill.
The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, helping burgers cook thoroughly without drying them out. Whether you’re making fresh patties or using frozen ones, the air fryer makes the process simple and reliable.
Best Temperature to Cook Burgers in an Air Fryer
The ideal temperature for cooking burgers in an air fryer is 375°F (190°C). This temperature is hot enough to brown the outside while cooking the inside to a safe and juicy finish. Going higher can overcook the exterior before the inside is done; too low, and the meat won’t develop that satisfying crust.
The USDA recommends that ground beef be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety. Always use a meat thermometer to check the center of the patty for doneness.
How Long to Cook Hamburgers in an Air Fryer
Here’s a helpful breakdown of cooking times at 375°F:
- Fresh burgers (1/4 pound, about 1/2 inch thick):
10–12 minutes total, flipping at the 5–6 minute mark - Frozen burgers:
13–16 minutes total, flipping halfway - Thicker burgers (1/3 to 1/2 pound):
14–16 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness - Cheeseburgers:
Add cheese during the last 1–2 minutes to let it melt
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—leave space between patties for better air circulation.
How to Make Perfect Air Fryer Hamburgers
Here’s my simple go-to method for making fresh air fryer burgers:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Shape the ground beef into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Press a small indent in the center with your thumb to prevent puffing.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, or your favorite blend.
- Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Add cheese (if using) during the last 1–2 minutes.
- Let rest for 3 minutes before serving on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings.
Variations and Extra Tips
- Turkey burgers: Use the same method but cook until 165°F internally.
- Veggie or plant-based burgers: Follow package directions, but air fry at 375°F for 9–11 minutes.
- Smash burger fans? Press the patties thinner and reduce cook time to about 8–9 minutes total.
You can even toast your buns in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes while the burgers rest. It adds a crispy edge that elevates the whole experience.
Final Thoughts
Cooking hamburgers in an air fryer is quick, clean, and consistently delicious. With the right temperature and timing—375°F for about 10–12 minutes—you can achieve juicy burgers that rival any grill or stovetop method. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a quick solo lunch, this method is a keeper.
If you found this article informative, feel free to check out our other articles as well.
