To cook a medium-rare burger in an air fryer, aim for a cooking time of 7 minutes per side at 360°F (182°C).
Detailed Steps for Air Fryer Medium Rare Burgers
Here's a breakdown to ensure your air fryer burger turns out perfectly medium-rare:
-
Prepare Your Burger Patties:
- Use ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 for optimal flavor and moisture.
- Form patties about ¾-inch thick. Thicker patties take longer to cook to the center.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. You can add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite burger blend.
-
Preheat Your Air Fryer (Optional):
- Some air fryers benefit from preheating. Check your air fryer's manual for specific recommendations. If preheating, set it to 360°F (182°C).
-
Air Fry the Burgers:
- Place the burger patties in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. If needed, cook in batches.
- Cook for 7 minutes on one side.
- Flip the burgers carefully.
- Cook for another 7 minutes.
-
Check for Doneness:
- The most accurate way to check for medium-rare is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the burger.
- A medium-rare burger should reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
-
Rest (Important):
- Remove the burgers from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
-
Serve:
- Build your burger with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Adjusting for Different Doneness
| Doneness | Internal Temp (Fahrenheit) | Total Cook Time (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120-130°F | 5 minutes per side at 360°F |
| Medium Rare | 130-135°F | 7 minutes per side at 360°F |
| Medium | 135-145°F | 8-9 minutes per side at 360°F |
| Medium Well | 145-155°F | 10-11 minutes per side at 360°F |
| Well Done | 155°F+ | 12+ minutes per side at 360°F (Not recommended as it can be dry) |
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of your patties. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the burger reaches the desired internal temperature. It's always safest to err on the side of caution and ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
