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Air fryer smash burger with melted cheddar cheese and crispy fries.

Air Fryer Smash Burgers

Make the best air fryer smash burgers—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor! Learn the step-by-step recipe, tips, and variations for perfection.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Burger Patties
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend for best juiciness
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Burger Assembly
  • 4 burger buns buttered for toasting
  • 4 slices cheese cheddar, American, or preference
  • lettuce for topping
  • tomato slices for topping
  • pickles for topping
  • burger sauce mayo, ketchup, or aioli

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Burger Press or Heavy Spatula
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

  1. Form the ground beef into 2-3 oz balls (about golf ball-sized). Avoid overworking the meat.
  2. Season each patty ball generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Refrigerate the beef balls for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Place the beef balls in the air fryer basket and press them down with a spatula or burger press.
  6. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. During the last 30 seconds, place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt.
  8. Butter the inside of the burger buns and toast them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and burger sauce.
  10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure the air fryer is fully preheated before cooking. Try different cheese varieties for unique flavors!