Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. A hot basket helps sear and prevents sticking.
Mix the seasoning in a small bowl: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
Don’t overdo the liquid; a little goes a long way.
Form the patties. Gently combine the ground beef with the seasoning using your hands. Divide into 4 equal portions. Shape into patties about 1/2 inch thick and slightly wider than your buns.
Press a small dimple in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
Lightly oil the basket or use a perforated parchment liner designed for air fryers. This reduces sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Cook the burgers. Place patties in a single layer with a little space between them. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway, for medium doneness.
For medium-well, go 9–11 minutes. Times vary by air fryer and patty thickness.
Check the temperature. For food safety, aim for an internal temp of 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
Add the cheese. In the final 30–60 seconds, place a slice of cheese on each patty and air fry just until melted.
Toast the buns (optional but recommended). Remove burgers and quickly toast sliced buns in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 1–2 minutes until lightly crisp.
Assemble. Spread condiments on toasted buns, add the patties, and top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
Serve immediately.