Why You’ll Love Cooking Frozen Burgers in Your Air Fryer

The air fryer has revolutionized quick meal prep, and cooking frozen burgers is no exception. This method isn’t just fast; it consistently delivers superior results compared to traditional pan-frying or baking. Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

1. Effortlessly Perfect & Juicy Burgers Every Time

   Say goodbye to dry, unevenly cooked patties. The circulating hot air in your air fryer ensures that frozen burgers cook thoroughly from all sides, locking in moisture and creating a deliciously tender interior with a slight crisp on the outside. This foolproof method eliminates guesswork – just set it and let your air fryer do the work.

2. The Best Homemade Special Burger Sauce

   What’s a great burger without a phenomenal sauce? While your burgers are cooking, you’ll have ample time to whip up our incredible special burger sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of classic flavors with a unique twist that will take your air-fried burgers from good to absolutely unforgettable. It’s so easy to make in just one bowl!

3. Dinner on the Table in Under 15 Minutes (Plus Easy Cleanup!)

   For those busy weeknights or spontaneous cravings, this recipe is a lifesaver. From freezer to bun, you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked burgers loaded with your favorite toppings and smothered in that special sauce in truly no time at all. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze, especially with our handy air fryer tip.

Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Frozen Burgers

Achieving air fryer burger perfection is simple, but a few insider tips can make a big difference. Follow these recommendations to ensure your frozen patties turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

• Customize Your Burger Masterpiece: While the classic combination of lettuce, onion, tomato, and our special sauce is always a winner, feel free to get creative! Elevate your air fryer frozen burgers with a slice of melty cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese. For an extra indulgent touch, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a fried egg make fantastic additions. Don’t forget pickles, jalapeños, or even a dollop of guacamole for added flair!
• Simplify Cleanup with Aluminum Foil: To make post-dinner cleanup even quicker, line the bottom of your air fryer basket with a sheet of aluminum foil before placing the burgers. The foil will catch any drips and grease from the patties, preventing them from accumulating in the basket and making washing up significantly easier. Just be sure not to cover too many holes, as proper air circulation is key.
• Don’t Worry About Slight Overlap: When arranging your frozen burger patties in the air fryer basket, it’s ideal to keep them in a single layer without touching. However, if you have to slightly overlap them to fit more patties, don’t fret! As the burgers cook, they will naturally shrink, pulling away from each other and allowing for even cooking. Just avoid excessive crowding.
• Check for Doneness with a Meat Thermometer: For food safety and the best eating experience, always ensure your burgers reach the correct internal temperature. For beef burgers, aim for 160°F (71°C). Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of the patty. This ensures they are perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
• Toast Your Buns for Extra Flavor: A slightly toasted bun can significantly enhance your burger experience. You can lightly toast your hamburger buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 350°F (175°C) after the burgers are cooked, or use a toaster oven or skillet. This adds a lovely texture and prevents the bun from getting soggy from the sauce and juices.

Mastering Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking frozen burger patties in the air fryer is incredibly simple, making it a perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful burgers every time.

Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer (with Special Burger Sauce)

Cooking frozen burgers in the air fryer is quick, simple, and super easy! Finish them off with a special burger sauce and you have a delicious meal ready in under 15 minutes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Yields: 4 burgers

Author: Cheryl Malik

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Ingredients

For the Burgers

• 4 frozen burger patties
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Special Burger Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 pinch salt

For Serving

• 4 hamburger buns
• Lettuce
• Tomato, sliced
• Onion, sliced
• Cheese of choice (cheddar, provolone, Swiss)
• Optional toppings: pickles, crispy bacon, avocado, sautéed mushrooms

Equipment

• Air Fryer (basket or oven style)
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Instant-read meat thermometer (recommended)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)

Instructions

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the burgers start cooking immediately and helps achieve a consistent cook and a nice sear.
2. Arrange Patties: Carefully place the 4 frozen burger patties in the air fryer basket in a single, even layer. If using aluminum foil for easy cleanup, place it in the basket first. Ensure the patties do not touch or overlap excessively to allow for proper air circulation. If cooking more than four, cook in batches.
3. Initial Cook: Return the basket to the air fryer. Cook the burgers for 5 minutes. This initial cooking phase helps to slightly thaw the exterior.

   

4. Flip and Season: Pause the air fryer and carefully remove the basket. Using tongs, flip each burger patty over. Now is the perfect time to season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty at this stage.
5. Continue Cooking: Return the basket to the air fryer. Cook the burgers for another 5-8 minutes, or until they are thoroughly cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your patties and your air fryer model.
6. Rest the Burgers: Once fully cooked and piping hot, carefully transfer the burgers from the air fryer to a large plate. Allow the burgers to rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more tender and juicy burger.
7. Prepare the Special Burger Sauce: While the burgers are resting, combine all the ingredients for the special burger sauce in a small mixing bowl: ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 pinch red pepper flakes, and 1 pinch salt. Whisk everything together until the sauce is completely smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
8. Assemble and Serve: Assemble your air fryer frozen burgers as desired. Spread a generous amount of the prepared special burger sauce on your toasted hamburger buns, then add your patty and favorite toppings like lettuce, sliced tomato, and onion. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly cooked, flavor-packed burger!

Nutrition Information

The number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. The result will be the weight of one serving.

Why the Air Fryer is Your Best Friend for Frozen Burgers

The air fryer’s popularity isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to its efficiency and versatility, especially when it comes to cooking convenience foods like frozen burgers. Unlike conventional ovens that can dry out patties or stovetops that can leave them greasy, the air fryer employs a rapid air circulation technology. This process crisps the exterior of the burger while keeping the inside wonderfully juicy. The even heat distribution ensures there are no cold spots, meaning your burger cooks thoroughly and safely every single time without requiring constant attention. Plus, the enclosed environment means less splatter and a cleaner cooking area.

The Secret Behind Our Special Burger Sauce

Every truly great burger deserves a signature sauce, and ours is designed to be just that – special. This sauce transcends the ordinary, blending the creamy richness of mayonnaise with the tangy sweetness of ketchup and dill pickle relish. The addition of onion powder provides an aromatic depth, while a touch of soy sauce introduces an umami kick that balances and enhances all the flavors. Finally, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth that ties everything together, creating a condiment that is vibrant, complex, and utterly addictive. It’s incredibly versatile too; try it with fries, chicken nuggets, or as a spread for sandwiches!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Frozen Burgers

Do I need to thaw frozen burgers before putting them in the air fryer?

No, absolutely not! One of the biggest advantages of this method is that you can cook frozen burger patties directly from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand, which saves you valuable time and effort.

What temperature should I cook frozen burgers in the air fryer?

For best results, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior and juicy interior.

How long do frozen burgers take in the air fryer?

Generally, frozen burgers cook in about 10-13 minutes in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C). This includes flipping them halfway through. Thicker patties may require an extra minute or two. Always check with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Can I add cheese to my air fryer frozen burgers?

Yes, you absolutely can! For perfectly melted cheese, add a slice of your favorite cheese (cheddar, provolone, American) during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This allows the cheese to melt beautifully without burning.

Do I need to flip frozen burgers in the air fryer?

Yes, it’s recommended to flip your frozen burger patties halfway through the cooking process. This promotes even cooking and browning on both sides, ensuring a consistent texture and flavor.

Can I cook different types of frozen patties (e.g., turkey, veggie) in the air fryer?

Yes, the air fryer is excellent for various types of frozen patties. Cooking times might vary slightly for turkey or veggie burgers, so always consult the package instructions or use a meat thermometer to ensure proper internal temperature (165°F / 74°C for turkey burgers).

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes to Try

If you love the convenience and delicious results of air frying, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes:

• Sausage in the Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Potato Skins
• Air Fryer Okra
• Frozen Biscuits in the Air Fryer
• Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings in Buffalo Sauce