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Air fryer mini burgers with juicy beef patties, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, and toasted slider buns, served on a plate as a crowd pleasing appetizer or meal.
Print Recipe

Air Fryer Mini Burgers - Juicy, Quick, and Crowd-Pleasing

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for juicy burgers; 85/15 works too)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce slightly if using fine salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but great for depth)
  • 8–10 slider buns
  • 4–5 slices cheddar or American cheese, halved (optional)
  • Toppings: sliced pickles, thin tomato slices, shredded lettuce, thin red onion, ketchup, mustard, mayo
  • For the buns (optional): 1 tablespoon butter, melted; sesame seeds

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. A warm basket helps with browning.
  • Season the meat: In a bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Do not overmix or the burgers can turn dense.
  • Form mini patties: Divide the mixture into 8–10 equal portions (about 1.5–2 ounces each). Roll lightly into balls, then press into 2.5–3-inch patties. Make a small thumb indent in the center of each to reduce puffing.
  • Prep the basket: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. You can also use perforated parchment made for air fryers.
  • Arrange and cook: Place patties in a single layer with some space between. Air-fry at 375°F for 5–6 minutes.
  • Check and flip: Flip the patties and cook another 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness. For food safety, aim for 160°F internal temperature.
  • Add cheese (optional): In the last 30–60 seconds, top patties with cheese and air-fry just until melted. Remove immediately to avoid overcooking.
  • Toast the buns (optional): Brush cut sides with melted butter. Air-fry at 350°F for 1–2 minutes until lightly crisp. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like.
  • Assemble: Layer sauce on buns, add a cheesy patty, then pickles, onion, lettuce, and tomato. Press gently so everything holds together without sliding.
  • Serve hot: Mini burgers taste best right away. Keep batches warm in a low oven (200°F) if needed.