How to Cook Juicy Frozen Turkey Burgers in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have become an increasingly popular kitchen appliance for their ability to make crispy, delicious foods like fries, chicken wings, and more using little to no oil. An air fryer works by rapidly circulating hot air around the food to cook it evenly on all sides. This makes it an excellent choice for cooking frozen turkey burgers to perfection!

Benefits of Cooking Frozen Turkey Burgers in an Air Fryer

Cooking frozen turkey burgers in an air fryer has many advantages:

• No need to thaw first – Air fryers can cook frozen foods directly without thawing, This saves time and makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

• Quick cooking – Frozen turkey burgers cook fast in an air fryer, in around 15-20 minutes Much faster than oven baking

• Even cooking – The circulating hot air ensures the burgers cook evenly all over without any cold spots No more raw middles!

• Juicy and flavorful – Air frying keeps frozen turkey burgers nice and juicy on the inside with a crispy exterior The flavor is not compromised

• Minimal oil needed – Only a small amount of oil is needed to coat the air fryer basket. Turkey burgers come out deliciously crispy with little to no added fat or calories.

How to Choose the Best Frozen Turkey Burgers

Not all frozen turkey burgers are created equal! When shopping, look for:

• All natural ingredients – Check the label to make sure the main ingredient is turkey, not fillers. The fewer additives and preservatives, the better.

• Higher lean turkey meat percentage – Look for at least 90% lean turkey meat for a healthier choice and better texture. The rest is usually a turkey/chicken blend.

• Minimal seasoned breadcrumbs – Too many breadcrumbs makes burgers dry. Around 5% or less is ideal.

• No artificial preservatives – Avoid burgers with nitrites or nitrates to limit sodium and unhealthy preservatives.

• Reputable brand – Stick to quality brands like Trader Joe’s, Butterball, or Jennie-O for the best results.

Once thawed and cooked, high quality frozen turkey burgers should be juicy, tender and taste like real homemade burgers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Frozen Turkey Burgers in an Air Fryer

Follow this simple process for perfectly cooked frozen turkey burgers every time:

1. Prepare the Turkey Burgers – Take the frozen turkey burgers straight from the freezer. No thawing is necessary! This makes air frying so easy and fast. Separate any burgers that are stuck together. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket, evenly spaced apart.

2. Preheat Air Fryer (Optional) – Preheating is an optional step. While not required, it helps the burgers begin defrosting sooner. Preheating at 375°F for 3-5 minutes before adding the burgers can shave a few minutes off the total cook time.

3. Cook the Turkey Burgers – Air fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time varies based on burger size. For evenly cooked burgers, make sure to leave space between each patty for air circulation. Insert a meat thermometer to check doneness. Turkey burgers are fully cooked at 165°F internal temperature.

4. Finish with Cheese (Optional) – After air frying, top burgers with cheese slices if desired. Return to air fryer and cook 1-2 mins more until cheese melts. Keep air fryer off, residual heat will melt the cheese.

5. Serve and Enjoy! – Allow burgers to rest 2-3 minutes before serving. This lets juices redistribute evenly. Serve on buns with favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, mustard, ketchup or mayo.

Tips for the Best Results

Use these handy tips for foolproof, mouthwatering frozen turkey burgers every time in your air fryer:

• Lightly brush or spray air fryer basket with oil before adding burgers. This prevents sticking.

• Don’t overcrowd. Leave space between patties for air flow. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.

• Flip burgers halfway during cooking. This allows both sides to get perfectly crispy.

• Check internal temp using a meat thermometer to prevent undercooking.

• Let burgers rest a few minutes before serving for juicier results.

• Add a few simple spices/herbs to frozen patties to boost flavor. Try garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, parsley, etc.

• Vary air fryer temperature based on burger thickness. Thicker burgers may need a lower temp and longer cook time.

• Add cheese only in the last 1-2 minutes after patties are cooked. This prevents cheese sticking to the basket.

• Toast burger buns in the air fryer while burgers cook for hot, crispy buns in minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook frozen turkey burgers in an air fryer?

Most frozen turkey burger patties take 15-20 minutes at 375°F in an air fryer. Larger or thicker burgers may take 18-22 minutes. Always check internal temp.

Can you put frozen burgers straight into the air fryer?

Yes! There is no need to thaw turkey burgers before air frying. Pop them in frozen for quick meals.

Should you flip turkey burgers in the air fryer?

Flipping halfway through is recommended for evenly browned and cooked burgers. The air flow crisps both sides.

What temperature should you cook frozen turkey burgers at?

375°F is ideal for most frozen turkey burgers. For larger burgers over 1/2 lb, try 350°F. Larger burgers hold heat and cook slower.

How can you tell when turkey burgers are done in the air fryer?

Turkey burgers are fully cooked when internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

More Delicious Air Fryer Turkey Burger Recipes to Try

• Italian turkey burgers – Add Italian seasoning and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella.

• Barbecue turkey burgers – Brush with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

• Southwest turkey burgers – Season with chili powder, cumin and top with guacamole.

• Mediterranean turkey burgers – Add oregano, garlic and feta cheese crumbles.

• Hawaiian turkey burgers – Pineapple slices and teriyaki sauce are amazing toppings.

• Veggie turkey burgers – Shredded zucchini, spinach, onions, etc. make them extra healthy.

• Breakfast turkey burgers – Add an egg, cheese and serve on a breakfast bun!

With an air fryer, frozen turkey burgers become a quick and easy dinner option with endless flavor possibilities. Ditch the frozen fast food and enjoy restaurant-worthy burger nights at home instead!