Craving a juicy burger but short on time? Cooking frozen burgers in air fryer is the easiest and fastest way to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of thawing. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the burger a crispy, caramelized exterior, making it a perfect method for cooking frozen patties. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a weeknight dinner, or a game-day snack, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about air-frying frozen burgers.
Why Cook Frozen Burgers in Air Fryer?
1- Convenience and Speed
Air frying frozen burgers is quick and easy. No need to wait for thawing—just take them straight from the freezer to the air fryer.
2- Healthier Alternative
Compared to pan-frying, air frying requires little to no oil, making your burger lower in fat while still achieving a crispy exterior.
3- Even Cooking
The air fryer circulates hot air around the burger, ensuring it cooks evenly without hot or cold spots.
4- Less Mess
No greasy stovetops or oil splatters—simply place the patties in the air fryer and let it do the work.
Ingredients Needed
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2-4 frozen burger patties (beef, turkey, chicken, or veggie)
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Burger buns
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Cheese slices (optional)
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Toppings: lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, etc.
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Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo, BBQ sauce
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Cooking spray (optional)
Timing
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Prep Time: 2 minutes
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Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
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Total Time: 15-17 minutes
How to Cook Frozen Burgers in an Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust on the burger.
Step 2: Arrange the Frozen Patties
Place the frozen burger patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper airflow.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
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Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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For thicker patties, cook for 12-15 minutes.
Step 4: Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches:
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160°F (71°C) for beef and pork
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165°F (74°C) for poultry
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
If adding cheese, place a slice on the burger in the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Close the air fryer and let the residual heat melt the cheese.
Step 6: Toast the Buns
Place the buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast them.
Step 7: Assemble the Burger
Stack your burger with desired toppings and condiments. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Best Toppings and Condiments
Classic Toppings
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Lettuce
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Tomato
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Onion
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Pickles
Unique Toppings
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Avocado
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Fried egg
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Caramelized onions
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Jalapeños
Popular Condiments
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Ketchup and mustard
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BBQ sauce
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Spicy mayo
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Garlic aioli
Air Fryer Cooking Times for Different Burgers
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Beef Burgers: 8-10 minutes at 375°F
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Turkey Burgers: 10-12 minutes at 375°F
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Chicken Burgers: 12-15 minutes at 375°F
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Veggie Burgers: 8-10 minutes at 375°F
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Burgers
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Avoid Overcrowding: Space out patties for even cooking.
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Flip Halfway: Ensures even browning on both sides.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Safety first—always check the internal temperature.
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Customize the Seasoning: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Burgers
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French fries or sweet potato fries
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Coleslaw
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Onion rings
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Side salad
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing
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Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
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Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Cook Frozen Burgers Without Thawing?
Yes! The air fryer is perfect for cooking burgers straight from frozen.
Do You Need to Add Oil?
Not necessarily. Most frozen patties have enough fat to cook without added oil.
Can You Air Fry Veggie Burgers?
Absolutely! Just follow the same method but check for doneness as times may vary.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen burgers in the air fryer is a quick, easy, and mess-free way to enjoy a juicy burger. With crispy edges and a perfectly cooked interior, it’s a great option for busy nights. Try out different patties, toppings, and condiments to customize your perfect burger.