Using an air fryer to make hamburgers is a game-changer. The circulating hot air creates a beautiful, crispy-seared exterior while locking in the juices, resulting in a burger that’s incredibly tender and moist on the inside. It’s a fast, convenient, and surprisingly clean way to get that grilled-like flavor without any of the fuss.

The key to a juicy air fryer burger is to start with the right ingredients and to not over-work the meat. A gentle touch and a few simple techniques are all you need to create a perfect burger every time.

Juicy Air Fryer Hamburgers

This recipe provides the core method for a perfectly cooked burger, which you can then customize with your favorite toppings and condiments.

Yields: 4 hamburgers1

Prep time: 5 minutes2

Cook time: 8-12 minutes3

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is recommended for best flavor and juiciness4

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for a deeper flavor)

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder5

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder6

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • Optional: A small thumb-sized dent in the center of the patty to prevent bulging7

Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties

  1. Gently mix: In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.8 Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Do not overwork the meat, as this will result in a tough, dense burger.

  2. Form the patties: Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty about ½-inch thick and slightly wider than your bun, as they will shrink during cooking. Press a small, thumb-sized dent into the center of each patty. This helps the burger cook evenly and prevents it from plumping up in the middle.

  3. Chill (optional): For best results, place the formed patties on a plate and let them chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This helps them hold their shape.

2. Cook the Hamburgers

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.9

  2. Arrange the patties: Place the hamburger patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket.10 Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

  3. Cook: Air fry the burgers for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The cooking time will vary based on your desired level of doneness and the thickness of the patties.

    • For medium-rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C): Cook for about 8 minutes.

    • For medium (140-145°F / 60-63°C): Cook for about 10 minutes.

    • For well-done (160°F / 71°C and up): Cook for about 12 minutes.

  4. Check for doneness: For the most accurate result, use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the center of the patty.

3. Finish and Serve

  1. Add cheese (optional): If you're making cheeseburgers, place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking.

  2. Toast the buns: While the burgers are resting, you can lightly toast your buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes.11

  3. Rest: Remove the burgers from the air fryer and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy burger.

  4. Assemble: Build your hamburgers on your favorite buns with lettuce, tomato, onions, and any other toppings you desire.

Tips for Air Fryer Perfection

  • Don't Overcrowd: Give the patties space to breathe. The air needs to circulate around each burger to get that perfect sear.

  • Prevent a Mess: Add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer drawer to prevent any dripping fat from smoking.12

  • The Right Meat: A ground beef blend with a good fat content (like 80/20) is essential for a juicy burger.13 Leaner meat can dry out quickly.

  • Trust Your Thermometer: The best way to know if your burger is cooked to your liking is with a meat thermometer.