How to Cook Juicy, Flavorful Turkey Burgers in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in recent years. Their ability to make crispy foods like fries and chicken wings with little to no oil is revolutionary. But an air fryer isn’t just for french fries and frozen foods. It’s also a great way to cook burgers, including turkey burgers.

Cooking turkey burgers in an air fryer results in juicy, flavorful burgers with a nice crispy sear. The circulating hot air cooks the burgers evenly all the way through while developing that delicious crispy exterior. Air frying also requires little to no oil compared to pan frying, making it a bit healthier.

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Burgers in an Air Fryer

There are a few key benefits to cooking turkey burgers in an air fryer compared to other methods:

• Even cooking The hot air circulates around the food, cooking the burger evenly on all sides No more undercooked centers or charred outsides

• Juicy interior: The air fryer doesn’t dry out turkey burgers like other high heat methods can. The burgers stay nice and moist inside.

• Crispy exterior The high heat from the air fryer gives the outside of the burgers a crispy, seared texture

• Versatility: An air fryer can cook burgers from raw or reheat precooked burgers to crispy perfection.

• Lower fat: Air frying uses little to no oil, lowering the fat content compared to pan frying.

How to Cook Turkey Burgers to Perfection in an Air Fryer

Follow these simple steps for tender, juicy turkey burgers with a crispy exterior straight from your air fryer:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey (85% lean or higher recommended)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil or cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)
• Burger buns and toppings

Instructions

1. Mix the burger ingredients: In a medium bowl, gently mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined. Overmixing can make the burgers dense and tough.

2. Form patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently form into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Slightly indent the center with your thumb to prevent burger puffing.

3. Chill (optional): For firmer burgers, place on a parchment lined plate, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better.

4. Prep the air fryer: Pre-heat air fryer to 370°F. Brush or spray a little oil on the basket to prevent sticking.

5. Cook the burgers: Place patties in air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 6 minutes then flip and cook 6 minutes more until cooked to 165°F internally.

6. Finish and serve: Let burgers rest 5 minutes before serving. The temperature will rise a bit more as they rest. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

• Use 85% or 93% lean ground turkey for the juiciest results. Using 99% fat free turkey can dry them out.

• For safety, cook to an internal temperature of 165°F checked with a meat thermometer.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches for even cooking.

• Brush both sides of burger buns with butter or oil before toasting lightly in air fryer.

• Try adding cheese slices on the last 1-2 minutes of air fryer cooking for easy melty cheeseburgers.

Seasoning and Topping Ideas for Turkey Burgers

The simple seasoning of Worcestershire, garlic, salt, and pepper makes a delicious burger, but you can also customize them with different seasonings and toppings.

Seasoning Ideas

• Southwest: Cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika

• Italian: Oregano, basil, red pepper flakes

• Greek: Lemon, oregano, garlic

• BBQ: Brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika

• Tex-Mex: Cumin, chili powder, cayenne

• Buffalo: Hot sauce, garlic powder

Topping Ideas

• Cheese: Cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, bleu

• Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, mayo, BBQ sauce

• Veggies: Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles

• Bacon

• Avocado

• Caramelized onions

• Sauteed mushrooms

So get creative with seasonings in the burger mix or add toppings after cooking. The options are endless for amazing turkey burgers from your air fryer.

Helpful FAQs on Air Frying Turkey Burgers

How long should I cook turkey burgers in an air fryer?

For 1/2 inch thick turkey burger patties, cook at 370°F for 6 minutes per side, 12 minutes total. Always cook to an internal temp of 165°F.

Can you cook frozen turkey burgers in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook frozen turkey burgers at 400°F for 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway. Check internal temp. Add 1-3 minutes if needed.

How do you keep turkey burgers moist in the air fryer?

• Don’t overcook – stick to recommended cook times
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
• Add moisture with Worcestershire sauce or salsa
• Use 85% lean ground turkey or fattier

Do you have to flip turkey burgers in the air fryer?

Flipping halfway through is recommended for even cooking. If not flipped, the underside will cook faster than the top side.

More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes to Try

The air fryer isn’t just for burgers. Here are some other must-try air fryer recipes:

• Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Air Fryer French Fries
• Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
• Air Fryer Fried Pickles
• Air Fryer Donuts
• Air Fryer Pork Chops
• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
• Air Fryer Steak
• Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

So get out your air fryer and start cooking up quick, delicious meals! Juicy, crispy, flavorful turkey burgers are just the beginning. With an air fryer, the possibilities are endless.