How Long to Cook 1/2 Pound Burger in Air Fryer

Craving a juicy, flavorful burger but don’t want to fire up the grill or deal with a greasy stovetop? Cooking a 1/2-pound burger in an air fryer is a game-changer. It’s fast, mess-free, and delivers that perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. But how long does it take to cook a 1/2-pound burger in an air fryer to get it just right? Let’s dive into the details, from prep to plating, so you can nail that burger every time.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Burgers?

Air fryers are a fantastic tool for cooking burgers because they use rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly without needing much oil. This means you get a burger with a slightly crispy outside and a juicy inside, minus the hassle of grease splattering all over your kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for year-round cooking—whether it’s too cold to grill outside or you just want a quick meal. The key is getting the timing and temperature right for a 1/2-pound patty, which is thicker and heftier than a standard 1/4-pound burger.

Preparing Your 1/2-Pound Burger Patty

Before we get to cooking times, let’s talk about setting yourself up for success. Start with good-quality ground beef—80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for a juicy burger, as the fat keeps it moist during cooking. Serious Eats has a great guide on forming patties, and their advice applies here: handle the meat gently to avoid overworking it, which can make your burger tough.

Divide 1 pound of ground beef into two equal portions to make two 1/2-pound patties. Shape each into a patty about 3/4 to 1 inch thick, slightly wider than your bun (they’ll shrink a bit during cooking). Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb or the back of a spoon—this prevents the burger from puffing up into a meatball shape. Season generously with salt and pepper, or mix in seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, try a seasoning blend like Montreal steak spice for a bold kick.

Cooking Time and Temperature for a 1/2-Pound Burger

The cooking time for a 1/2-pound burger in an air fryer depends on your preferred doneness, the thickness of the patty, and your air fryer model. Most recipes recommend a temperature between 350°F and 400°F, with slight variations in time. Here’s a breakdown based on reliable sources and testing:

• Medium-Rare (135–140°F internal temperature): Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This gives you a warm, red center with a juicy bite.
• Medium (140–150°F): Cook at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway. You’ll get a pink center with plenty of juiciness.
• Medium-Well to Well-Done (150–160°F): Cook at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures a mostly brown center with minimal pink.

For a 1/2-pound patty, 375°F is a sweet spot because it cooks the thicker patty evenly without drying it out. At 400°F, you might get a crispier exterior but risk overcooking the inside if you’re not careful. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—160°F is the USDA-recommended safe temperature for ground beef. The USDA provides clear guidelines on safe cooking temperatures, which is especially important for thicker patties.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to cook your 1/2-pound burger in the air fryer for a medium doneness (adjust time slightly for other preferences):

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a nice sear on the outside.
2. Prep the Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or brush with a little oil to prevent sticking. For less smoke, add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the air fryer (below the basket) to catch dripping fat.
3. Place the Patties: Arrange the patties in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook in batches.
4. Cook and Flip: Air fry for 6–7 minutes, then carefully flip the patties using tongs. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
5. Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re making cheeseburgers, place a slice of cheese on each patty after cooking, close the air fryer (turned off), and let the residual heat melt the cheese for 1–2 minutes.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the patties and let them rest for 2–3 minutes to redistribute the juices. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, or a dollop of homemade burger sauce.

Tips for the Juiciest Air Fryer Burgers

Getting that perfect burger takes a little finesse. Here are some pro tips to elevate your game:

• Don’t Overcrowd: Air fryers need space for hot air to circulate. If you cram too many patties in, they’ll steam instead of sear.
• Use Cold Meat: Keep your ground beef chilled until you’re ready to form patties. Cold meat holds its shape better and stays juicier.
• Flip Carefully: Flipping halfway through ensures even cooking, but don’t press down on the patties—you’ll squeeze out the juices.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Beyond salt and pepper, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
• Toast the Buns: Pop your burger buns in the air fryer at 360°F for 1–2 minutes for a crispy, golden finish. It makes a huge difference!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with an air fryer, things can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcooking: A 1/2-pound patty is thicker, so it’s tempting to cook it longer than needed. Check the internal temperature early to avoid a dry burger.
• Skipping the Indent: Without that thumbprint in the center, your burger might puff up and cook unevenly.
• Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks: Models vary widely. A basket-style air fryer might cook differently than an oven-style one, so test a patty and adjust the time if needed.

Serving Suggestions

A great burger is only as good as its toppings and sides. Go classic with lettuce, tomato, onion, and a smear of ketchup and mayo, or get creative with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or a fried egg. Pair your burger with air fryer fries or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeding a crowd, set up a DIY burger bar with a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own. Bon Appétit has some fun ideas for building an epic burger bar that’s sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

Cooking a 1/2-pound burger in an air fryer is quick, easy, and delivers results that rival a grill—without the mess. At 375°F, you’re looking at 12–14 minutes for a medium burger, but always use a meat thermometer to get it just how you like it. With a little prep and a few smart tips, you’ll be biting into a juicy, flavorful burger in no time. So, fire up that air fryer and get ready to enjoy a burger that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.