Name: Air Fryer Cheeseburgers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon yellow mustard; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt (or to taste); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 4 slices American cheese; 4 hamburger buns; Thousand Island dressing; Lettuce; Sliced tomatoes; Thinly sliced red onion; French fries ((for serving))

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Juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make, this Air Fryer Cheeseburgers Recipe is the perfect weeknight meal that will leave your family asking for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can whip up delicious cheeseburgers in no time. Whether you’re craving a classic burger or looking to impress your friends at a backyard BBQ, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into the details of making these scrumptious burgers that are bound to become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Air frying is a game-changer for busy cooks. It provides the crispy texture we love without the added fat of traditional frying methods. In this Air Fryer Cheeseburgers Recipe, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness of a classic burger while keeping it quick and simple. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce infuses the beef with amazing flavor, making each bite a delight. Plus, air frying means less mess and faster cleanup—just pop the burgers in, set the timer, and you’re on your way to burger bliss.

What We’re Using

To create these mouthwatering cheeseburgers, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt or to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 slices American cheese
4 hamburger buns
Thousand Island dressing
Lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Thinly sliced red onion
French fries (for serving)

Setup & Equipment

Before we start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Spatula
Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)

Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Cheeseburgers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing up during cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the burgers start cooking at the right temperature, giving you that perfect sear.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Carefully place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The burgers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Add Cheese

In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Close the air fryer to let the cheese melt, creating that gooey, delicious topping.

Step 6: Toast the Buns (Optional)

If you like your buns toasted, you can quickly place them in the air fryer for the last 2 minutes of the burger cooking time. This will give them a delightful crunch.

Step 7: Assemble the Burgers

Spread Thousand Island dressing on the bottom half of each bun. Top with lettuce, a cheesy patty, sliced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Finish with the top bun and serve with crispy French fries on the side.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Air Fryer Cheeseburgers Recipe with these substitutions:

Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter option.
Use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, instead of American.
Swap Thousand Island dressing for ketchup and mustard for a classic flavor.
Replace hamburger buns with lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

For the best flavor, use lean ground beef (80/20) to ensure the burgers stay juicy. If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to experiment by adding spices like smoked paprika or onion powder to the beef mixture. And remember, the key to great burgers is to avoid pressing down on them while they cook; this keeps all those delicious juices inside.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftover patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze uncooked patties by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these cheeseburgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them for later use.

How do I know when my burgers are done?

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef to ensure it is safe to eat.

Can I use different toppings for these burgers?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Avocado, jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms are all great additions. The possibilities are endless!

What’s the best way to clean my air fryer?

To clean your air fryer, allow it to cool completely, then wipe down the basket and tray with warm soapy water. For stubborn stains, a soft sponge can help. Make sure to avoid abrasive cleaners to keep the non-stick coating intact.

See You at the Table

This Air Fryer Cheeseburgers Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic meal with minimal fuss. The combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying burger experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So gather your loved ones, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy a delicious meal together. Happy cooking!