When a burger craving strikes, reach for your air fryer or Ninja Foodi and make these Easy Air Fryer Cheeseburgers — the same method works in a Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker using the Air Crisp function, so no grill is required.
Air Fryer Cheeseburgers deliver the flavor of a grilled burger without the fuss of lighting a grill. They’re quick, simple, and ideal for a fast weeknight dinner or a solo meal. These burgers work well in any air fryer model; if you use a Ninja Foodi, select Air Crisp.
Why you’ll love Air Fryer Cheeseburgers:
- Fast and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Low mess – Everything cooks inside the air fryer basket, so cleanup is minimal.
- Juicy results – The circulating heat locks in moisture for consistently juicy patties.
- Customizable – Make them gluten-free, swap cheeses, or adjust seasonings to suit your tastes.
Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Cheeseburgers:
- Ground beef patties (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
- Cheese slices – Colby Jack or sharp cheddar
- Hamburger buns (or gluten-free buns)
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Onion slices
- Pickles
- Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper (or your favorite burger seasoning)
Optional toppings could include smoked gouda for a smoky twist, sautéed mushrooms, or bacon. You can use freshly formed patties or frozen premade patties; premade patties are handy when cooking just one or two burgers and leaving the rest in the freezer. This method also adapts well to turkey or chicken burgers — adjust cook time for leaner meats.
Tips to make the best cheeseburgers in the air fryer:
Arrange seasoned patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. After the initial cook time, top each patty with a slice of cheese and continue cooking until melted and the patty reaches your preferred doneness. Finish by assembling with your favorite toppings and sauces.
- Flip carefully – Only flip once the patty has seared on one side to avoid tearing.
- Season generously – Use your preferred seasoning blend; a simple salt and pepper works great.
- Toast the buns – Pop buns in the air fryer for a minute or two for a lightly toasted finish.
- Check internal temperature – Use a meat thermometer and monitor doneness. Adjust cook times for rare, medium, or well-done preferences.
Can you use aluminum foil in the air fryer?
Yes — you can line the basket with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, but make sure air can still circulate around the food. Place the patties on the foil before starting the air fryer so the foil won’t blow into the heating element.
Serving suggestions for Air Fryer Cheeseburgers:
These burgers pair perfectly with air-fried sides like homemade potato chips, fresh-cut french fries, truffle fries, or onion rings. A simple potato salad is another classic accompaniment. Serve with your favorite condiments and a cold drink for a satisfying meal.
How to store leftovers
Store leftover cooked patties or assembled burgers (without fresh toppings like lettuce or tomato) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through. Burgers are best enjoyed immediately after cooking.
Air Fryer Cheeseburgers or Ninja Foodi Cheeseburgers are an easy, dependable option for a quick dinner — flavorful, juicy, and ready in less than 20 minutes.
Best Sides with Air Fryer Burgers:
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Air Fryer Fresh-Cut French Fries
-
Air Fryer Truffle Fries
-
Gluten-Free Air Fryer Onion Rings
-
Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings
Easy Air Fryer Cheeseburgers
Air Fryer Fanatics
Ingredients
- 4 Ground Beef Patties
- 1/2 tsp seasoning of choice
- 4 slices Colby Jack or sharp cheddar cheese
Toppings
- Sliced tomato
- Sliced onion
- Pickles
- Lettuce
- Ketchup and mustard
- Hamburger buns
Instructions
- Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or line with foil (ensuring air circulation).
- Season the patties and place them in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook at 375°F for 5 minutes, then flip and cook another 5 minutes.
- Place a slice of cheese on each patty and cook an additional 2 minutes, or until cheese is melted and patties reach desired doneness. Times target well-done; reduce for medium or rare.
- Remove patties and assemble burgers with buns and desired toppings.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 240 kcal
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Protein: 16 g
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Cholesterol: 51 mg
Sodium: 570 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
