Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer (No Thawing Needed)

When dinner needs to happen fast, frozen burger patties and an air fryer are a great combination. There’s no thawing and no grease splatter, and the patties get a better crust than they would in the microwave or a crowded skillet.

How to cook frozen burgers in the air fryer

1. Preheat to 380°F195°C. A hot start helps the frozen surface brown instead of steam.
2. Cook in a single layer for 7–8 minutes.
3. Flip and season. The surface has thawed now, so the seasoning sticks.
4. Cook another 6–8 minutes until 160°F71°C in the center, adding cheese at the end.

Why cook frozen burgers at 380°F195°C?

Frozen patties need a little less heat than fresh ones at 400°F205°C. At 380°F195°C, the outside browns while the frozen center has time to cook through. If your patties are especially thick, drop to 360°F180°C and add a couple of minutes.

Tips for better frozen burgers

• Separate them first. Patties frozen together cook unevenly. Pry them apart with a butter knife.
• Leave space. A crowded basket can add 4–5 minutes and leaves pale, steamed patties.
• Check the label. Pre-seasoned or “Angus” patties often already contain salt.
• Use a thermometer. Frozen patties can look done outside before they’re 160°F71°C inside.
• Drain the fat. Tip out the drawer between batches to reduce smoke.

Frozen turkey, veggie and chicken patties

The same method works for other frozen patties. Cook turkey burgers at 380°F195°C for 14–18 minutes, to 165°F74°C. Veggie and plant-based burgers take 8–12 minutes at 375°F190°C. Breaded chicken patties crisp in 10–12 minutes at 380°F195°C. Check the times table above for each one.

Make it a meal

Cook frozen fries first, then keep them warm while the burgers cook. Or cook the burgers first and crisp the fries while the burgers rest. Fresh patties? See our main air fryer burgers guide.