Air Fryer Cheeseburgers: 20-Minute Juicy Bliss

Name: Air Fryer Cheeseburgers: 20-Minute Juicy Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 4 slices of cheese; 4 hamburger buns; Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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There’s something magical about whipping up quick and tasty air fryer cheeseburgers that makes any weeknight feel special! I mean, who doesn’t love a juicy cheeseburger that’s ready in just 20 minutes? The air fryer is a total game changer, cooking these beauties to perfection while keeping them wonderfully juicy and flavorful. It’s as simple as mixing the ingredients, shaping the patties, and letting the air fryer do its thing. Whether it’s a rushed weekday dinner or a lazy Sunday afternoon, these air fryer cheeseburgers are perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings, so everyone at the table leaves happy. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll be hooked on these easy air fryer recipes!

Ingredients List

Getting the ingredients together for these air fryer cheeseburgers is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef: I like to use a blend that’s around 80/20 for that perfect juicy bite.
1 tsp salt: Just enough to enhance all those delicious flavors.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the burger.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
1/2 tsp onion powder: A hint of sweetness and depth that complements the beef.
4 slices of cheese: Choose your favorite! Cheddar, American, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
4 hamburger buns: Toasted lightly in the air fryer, they’re the perfect vessel for your burger.
Optional toppings: Get creative! Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, or anything else you adore on your burgers.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set for a delicious meal that comes together in no time! Enjoy the process and feel free to mix it up according to your taste!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Cheeseburgers

Making air fryer cheeseburgers is as simple as it gets! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious burgers ready in no time.

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheating! Set it to 375°F – this temperature cooks the burgers perfectly, locking in all the juices. Preheating is crucial because it helps create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference!

Prepare the Patties

Now, let’s get our hands a little messy! In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands to mix everything together gently; you want it just combined, not overworked. Then, divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a little indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly. This step is key to avoid those dreaded puffed-up burgers!

Air Fry the Patties

Time to cook! Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. This helps them cook evenly. Set the timer for 8 minutes and let them work their magic. Halfway through, be sure to flip the patties for even cooking. Oh, and don’t worry if they look a bit pink; they’ll continue cooking even after being flipped!

Add Cheese and Finish Cooking

Once the burgers are nearly done, it’s time for the cheese! Open the air fryer, and carefully place a slice of cheese on each patty. Set the timer for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey. Seriously, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!

Assemble Your Cheeseburgers

Finally, it’s assembly time! Grab your toasted hamburger buns and place each cheesy patty on the bottom half. Now, pile on your favorite toppings – lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, or anything else that makes your taste buds dance! Top it all off with the other half of the bun, and voila! Your air fryer cheeseburgers are ready to devour!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your air fryer cheeseburgers turn out just right? Here are some handy tips that’ll elevate your burger game!

Cooking Time Variations: The cooking time can vary based on how thick you make your patties. If you’re aiming for thicker burgers, add an extra minute or two to ensure they’re cooked through. Just keep an eye on them!
Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure about doneness, use an instant-read thermometer. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F for beef to be safe and juicy.
Experiment with Patty Thickness: For a classic diner experience, try making the patties a bit thinner. They’ll cook faster and get that nice crispy edge, while still being juicy inside!
Mix Up the Cheeses: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese! Try a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella for a flavor explosion. Or, go bold with blue cheese for something different.
Seasoning Variations: Feel free to add your favorite spices or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for added flavor. You’d be surprised how much a little extra seasoning can enhance the taste!
Resting Time: Let your burgers rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more delicious!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect air fryer cheeseburgers that everyone will rave about!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one delicious air fryer cheeseburger, just so you know what you’re getting in each tasty bite:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But no matter what, you can feel good about enjoying these air fryer cheeseburgers as a quick, satisfying meal!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the best air fryer cheeseburgers? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:

What’s the best cooking time for air fryer cheeseburgers?

Generally, cooking your cheeseburgers for about 8 minutes at 375°F does the trick for medium doneness. If you prefer them well-done, just add a couple of extra minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking!

Which cheese is best for air fryer cheeseburgers?

It really depends on your taste! Classic choices like cheddar and American melt beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a kick or Swiss for a nutty flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!

Can I use frozen patties in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure they reach 160°F. It’s a great option for those busy nights when you need a quick meal!

How can I customize the flavors of my cheeseburgers?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add spices like smoked paprika or even a splash of BBQ sauce to the beef mixture. Toppings are another great way to switch things up—experiment with avocado, jalapeños, or different types of sauces for extra flavor!

What should I do if my burgers are sticking to the air fryer basket?

Make sure to lightly oil the basket or use parchment paper specific for air fryers. If you’ve already done that and they’re still sticking, try letting them rest for a minute before attempting to remove them. This gives the crust a chance to firm up a bit, making them easier to lift!

Can I meal prep these air fryer cheeseburgers?

Definitely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day or freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the air fryer straight from the fridge or freezer!

Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m always here to help you create the juiciest air fryer cheeseburgers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Easy: The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these cheeseburgers a breeze to prepare, even on the busiest weeknights.
Flavorful: The air fryer locks in all the juicy goodness, giving you a rich, savory taste that’s hard to beat.
Healthy: Air frying reduces the need for excess oil, making these cheeseburgers a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: Whether you like classic toppings or want to experiment with something new, you can tailor these burgers to fit every palate.
Perfect for Family Dinners: These cheeseburgers are a hit with everyone, making them an ideal choice for a fun family meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any leftover air fryer cheeseburgers (which is rare in my house!), storing them properly is key to keeping that deliciousness intact. Here’s how to do it:

First, let the burgers cool completely before storing them. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. Once they’re cool, wrap each cheeseburger tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing them! Wrap each burger individually in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer, making them perfect for quick meals down the road.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. For the best results, I recommend using the air fryer to bring them back to life! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and place the cheeseburgers in for about 5-7 minutes. This reheating method keeps the patties juicy and the cheese melty, just like when they were freshly made.

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, the oven works too! Preheat it to 350°F and place the burgers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Just keep an eye on them to avoid drying out!

And there you have it – easy storage and reheating tips to ensure your air fryer cheeseburgers taste just as amazing the second time around!