The Ultimate Burger Showdown: Why My Grillmaster Husband Now Swears By Air Fryer Burgers Over The Grill

Imagine this: it’s a summer night, and hamburgers sizzling on the grill perfume the air. That’s been my husband’s place of joy for years he’s a backyard grill sort of fellow through and through. But then came our air fryer and turned his burger allegiances on their head. Here’s our burger taste test, in which we go down into the skillet and air fryer to determine which one makes the ultimate patty. Whether you’re a purist for the old school sear or questioning the latest cooking tricks, this adventure will equip you with the tips you need to create your best burger ever.

Both techniques produce great burgers, but they suit two different atmospheres. Skillet burgers are moist with a caramelized, crunchy exterior, shouting old fashioned comfort. Air fryer burgers are quicker to cook, crisp perfectly, and reduce the oil for a lightened up bite. Let’s dive into what makes both stand out and assist you in finding your burger nirvana.

1. Creating a Burger That Impresses

Creating a fantastic burger is like creating a work of art it’s all about the little things. Begin with good beef; chuck and sirloin ground together provides that ideal combination of taste and texture. Grind it yourself if possible, or use high quality pre ground beef. Shaping patties requires not working the meat too much soft hands keep it soft. Seasoning is where things get magical: a healthy sprinkle of salt and pepper is essential, but some Worcestershire or smoked paprika can elevate it. Let the patties rest in the fridge for a little while to seal in the flavors. And getting the doneness just right whether you’re a pink center person or a well done one depends on paying attention to the heat and getting the timing just so. These small changes make all the difference.

2. Skillet Burgers: Plain Comfort Food

Curry Chicken Burgers

These easy-to-make curry chicken burgers are packed with flavor from ground chicken thighs, fresh red onion, jalapeño, garlic, and aromatic spices like curry powder and crushed red pepper. The recipe guides you through grinding the chicken with the aromatics, mixing in the seasonings, forming patties, and pan-frying them to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Versatile for serving on a bun, over a salad, or as chicken salad, these burgers offer a delicious and healthy meal option.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course lunch/dinner

Cuisine nordic

Servings 8 people

Calories 760.8 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Chef’s knife
• 1 Cutting Board
• 1 Food Processor or Meat Grinder Essential for grinding chicken and incorporating aromatics
• 1 Large Mixing Bowl
• 1 Nonstick Skillet For cooking the burgers

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 red onion
• 1 jalapeno
• 4 cloves garlic
• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
• 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

 

• Begin by peeling your red onion. Remove the skin and cut off the remaining root. Chop up your red onion into small pieces and set aside. Take your jalapeno and remove the stem with a knife and slice in half. If you like spicy, keep all the seeds, if not, then now’s the time to remove them as well as the veins. Place aside. Take your garlic cloves, peel them and put aside.
• Now take your chicken thighs. After washing the chicken and removing any unwanted fat, you’re now ready to grind the meat, using a meat grinder, grinder attachment or food processor. Place a mixing bowl underneath the grinder to catch the ground meat. While placing the thighs into the grinder, stagger in your jalapeno and garlic cloves so they mix in with the ground chicken thigh. Or if you’re using a food processor, just place all the items into the processor and pulse until the ingredients are incorporated and place into a mixing bowl.
• Add the honey, crushed red pepper, curry powder, salt and black pepper and mix until fully incorporated. Preheat a nonstick skillet on medium heat with the veggie oil. While the skillet is heating, patty your burgers into 6-ounce patties, and then place in the skillet. Cook each burger 6 to 8 minutes on each side, making sure that each burger is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Now you’re ready to dress it up however you like. On a bun, atop a salad or broken up to make chicken salad. Enjoy!

Notes

When grinding chicken thighs, be careful not to over-process; pulse just until incorporated to retain some texture, avoiding a paste-like consistency. For the jalapeño, adjust the amount of seeds and veins based on desired heat level; remove all for mild, keep some for a medium kick. Ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding patties to achieve a good sear, and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain consistent cooking temperature. Always verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Consider serving these flavorful burgers with a cool yogurt-cucumber sauce or on toasted brioche buns with fresh cilantro for an elevated experience.

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Something about a skillet burger is homey. The instant that patty meets the hot pan, the kitchen is filled with a smoky, savory smell. That sizzle forms a golden crust that traps every drop of juiciness burger heaven. Direct heat provides you with that crispy exterior and soft interior, that perfect texture spot. Add some minced onions or garlic when cooking, and those flavors combine into something amazing. With a skillet, you have control, adjusting the heat to achieve just the doneness you desire. Those caramelized edges? They’re burger fantasies come to life.

3. Air Fryer Burgers: Fast and Guilt Free

Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Herb Butter

Yes, you can even cook steak in an air fryer! We found that thicker cuts, like sirloin, are best -- they turn nice and browned on the outside without overcooking. Plus, there's very little clean up. We added a homemade garlic-herb butter to melt over the steak for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

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Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course lunch/dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 2 people

Calories 3877.9 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Air Fryer 3.5-quart or larger
• 1 Cutting Board
• 1 Small Mixing Bowl
• 1 Knife Chef's knife for slicing and chopping
• 1 Microplane or Garlic Grater For finely grating garlic

Ingredients

  

Main

• One 1-pound sirloin steak about 1 inch thick
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 small clove garlic finely grated
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

 

• Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Preheat a 3.5-quart air fryer to 400 degrees F. Season the steak on both sides with a generous pinch of salt and several grinds of black pepper. Place the steak in the center of the air fryer basket and cook until desired doneness, about 10 minutes for medium-rare, 12 minutes for medium and 14 minutes for medium-well. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and allow to rest, about 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, mash together the butter, parsley, chives, garlic and crushed red pepper in a small bowl until combined. Slice the steak against the grain into 1/4-inch-thick pieces. Top with the garlic-herb butter.

Notes

Ensuring the steak comes to room temperature before cooking is crucial for even cooking and a tender result. Patting the steak dry before seasoning can aid in achieving a better sear. Utilize a meat thermometer for precise doneness, targeting 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, as air fryer temperatures can vary. Resting the cooked steak is non-negotiable; it allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite. The garlic-herb butter is a fantastic finishing touch, adding richness and aromatic complexity; consider a touch of lemon zest for brightness if desired.

Air fryers are the new blockbuster on the scene, and they’re stealing hearts in kitchens across the globe. They cook burgers quickly and uniformly using hot air, no need to flip. Best part? You barely need any oil, so the burgers come out lighter but still packed with flavor. They’re a lifesaver for busy nights or small kitchens, and cleanup is a breeze just pop out the basket and wipe it down. If you’re watching your diet but still crave a juicy burger, the air fryer’s your new best friend.

4. Taste and Texture Face Off

Skillet burgers bring that classic, smoky flavor with a crusty exterior and a juicy heart. The pan’s direct heat caramelizes the meat, adding depth you can taste in every bite. You can dial in the doneness, from rare to well done, for a custom experience. Air fryer burgers, meanwhile, bring a crispy, nearly fried quality without the oil. The hot air enshrouds the patty, cooking it consistently and providing it with a nice crunch. It’s a toss up: do you have the classic, soul soothing skillet or the trendy, crunchy air fryer? It’s all about what you’re in the mood for.

5. Speed and Efficiency

When time is of the essence, the air fryer takes center stage. It bakes burgers between 10–15 minutes, thanks to its effective hot air circulation, whereas skillets require about 15–20 minutes. In addition, air fryers are less power hungry than a stovetop, which is kinder on your bottom line and the environment. For fast, delicious meals with less trouble, the air fryer is hard to beat.

6. Health Check

Skillets allow you to have control over the oil, so you may be able to keep it light with a light drizzle of olive oil. It is, however, very easy to overdo it, which pushes the fat level up. Air fryers require minimal or no oil, and their structure allows excess fat to drip out, resulting in a thinner burger. If you want to reduce calories without compromising on flavor, the air fryer has the advantage.

7. Make It Your Own

Skillets are a creativity playground for burgers. Dial in the heat for the ideal sear, or add spices and toppings directly in the pan caramelized onions or a dash of chili powder come to mind. Air fryers make it versatile as well, mastering all from beef to veggie patties with that unmistakable crunch. Sprinkle cheese or vegetables in or out of the way of cooking for a little personal touch. Whether you’re a purist or having fun with healthier alternatives, both ways allow you to build a burger that’s all you.

8. Ball Park Frozen Patties: Fast and Tasty

Patty Melts

This recipe guides you through making classic patty melts, featuring savory ground beef patties, deeply caramelized onions, and melted Swiss cheese, all grilled between slices of buttery rye bread until golden and crisp. It's a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, highlighting simple ingredients transformed into a flavorful American classic.

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Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course lunch/dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 3638.3 kcal

Equipment

• 2 Skillets One medium for onions, one large or griddle for grilling sandwiches
• 1 Mixing Bowl For preparing ground beef patties
• 1 Spatula/Turner For stirring onions, flipping patties and sandwiches
• 1 Chef's knife For slicing onions
• 1 Cutting Board For preparing onions

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 stick butter
• 1 whole large onion halved and sliced
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 5 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper
• 8 slices rye bread
• 8 slices Swiss cheese

Instructions

 

• In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-low heat. Throw in the sliced onions and cook slowly until the onions are golden brown and soft, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, Worcestershire and some salt and pepper. Form into 4 patties.
• Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties on both sides until totally done in the middle.
• Assemble the patty melts this way: Slice of bread, slice of cheese, hamburger patty, a quarter of the cooked onions, another slice of cheese and another slice of bread.
• On a clean griddle or in a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter and grill the sandwiches until golden brown. Remove the sandwiches and add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Return the sandwiches to the skillet, flipping them to the other side. Cook until golden brown and crisp, and until the cheese is melted. Slice in half and serve immediately!

Notes

Achieving perfectly caramelized onions is crucial; cook them slowly over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and sweet. Rushing this step will result in undercooked, bitter onions. For the beef patties, avoid overmixing the ground beef to ensure a tender texture and season generously. When grilling the assembled melts, maintain a consistent medium heat to allow the bread to become golden and crisp, and the Swiss cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the butter or bread. Using high-quality rye bread and good butter will significantly enhance the final flavor and texture. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a thin spread of Dijon mustard or a savory sauce like Russian dressing inside the sandwich before grilling.

For a quick air fryer win, Ball Park Fully Cooked Flame Grilled Beef Patties are a go to. Ready in about 10 minutes at 400°F, they stay juicy with a smoky, grilled flavor straight from the freezer. No thawing, no additives just pure beefy goodness. They’re perfect for a fast lunch or casual dinner when you’re short on time.

9. Bubba Burger Original: Crowd Pleaser

Barack Obama Pizza Burger

This recipe creatively combines the best of a burger with pizza elements. Juicy Angus beef patties are grilled and topped with marinara sauce and melted fresh mozzarella. These are then served on toasted, garlic-butter spread rolls, finished with fresh basil, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course lunch/dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 people

Calories 4350 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Oven
• 1 Grill or Grill Pan
• 1 Mixing Bowl
• 1 Whisk
• 1 Aluminum Foil

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 head garlic
• 1 stick unsalted butter softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon champagne vinegar
• Kosher salt
• 6 8- ounce Angus beef patties
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce plus more for serving
• 12 thin slices fresh mozzarella cheese about 8 ounces
• 6 crusty rolls such as ciabatta, kaiser or Portuguese, halved
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350.
• Make the butter: Remove the papery outer layer from the head of garlic and slice off the top to expose the cloves slightly. Wrap the garlic in foil and roast in the oven until soft, about 45 minutes. Cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted pulp into a bowl. Whip with the butter, parsley, vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon salt; set aside.
• Remove the papery outer layer from the head of garlic and slice off the top to expose the cloves slightly. Wrap the garlic in foil and roast in the oven until soft, about 45 minutes. Cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted pulp into a bowl. Whip with the butter, parsley, vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon salt; set aside.
• Make the burgers: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Season the beef patties generously with salt and pepper and grill, about 3 minutes per side for medium-rare, turning once.
• Move the burgers to the cooler side of the grill (or reduce the heat on the stove) and top each with some marinara sauce and 2 slices cheese. Spread the cut sides of each roll with some of the garlic butter and place facedown on the grill. Cover and cook until the cheese melts and the buns are toasted, 1 to 2 minutes. Place a burger on each roll bottom; add some chopped basil and the roll top. Serve with more marinara sauce, if desired.

Notes

1. For the garlic butter, ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature for a smooth, homogenous whip. Consider adding a tiny drizzle of olive oil to the garlic head before roasting to enhance flavor and prevent drying.2. When grilling the beef patties, avoid overworking the meat to maintain tenderness. For a perfect melt, use fresh mozzarella and allow it to come to room temperature before placing on the hot burgers.3. Toasting the buns is crucial; aim for a golden-brown crust without burning the garlic butter. Using ciabatta or a similar crusty roll provides excellent structural integrity for this substantial burger. A warmed marinara sauce for serving enhances the overall experience.

Bubba Burger Frozen Beef Burger Patties are a family favorite and are produced from 100% USDA Choice beef chuck. Cooks in 10 minutes, with crispy edges and a juicy center. Gluten free and preservative free, they’re versatile for air frying, grilling, or skillet cooking. High in protein, they’re a great choice for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

10. Bubba Burger Angus: A Step Above

Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

These air-fryer shrimp are perfectly crispy and easy to make without the hassle of heating up a large pot of oil. Serve with our spicy remoulade, or substitute any of your favorite condiments for dipping.

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Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course lunch/dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 people

Calories 472 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Air Fryer 3.5 quart or larger
• 3 Shallow Bowls For breading station
• 1 Whisk
• 1 Large Plate or Rimmed Baking Sheet For holding breaded shrimp
• 1 Small Bowl For remoulade sauce

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 pound large shrimp 16/20 count, peeled and deveined, tails on
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Nonstick cooking spray for the shrimp
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapenos
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 scallion thinly sliced

Instructions

 

• For the fried shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry between a couple paper towels, then season with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper.
• Whisk the flour with 3/4 teaspoon salt and few grinds of pepper in a shallow bowl or baking dish. Whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt in another shallow bowl. Add the panko to a third shallow bowl. Dip a shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then dip in the beaten eggs. Dredge in the panko, turning until evenly coated. Transfer to a large plate or a rimmed baking sheet and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
• Preheat a 3.5 quart air fryer to 385 degrees F. Working in batches, place some of the shrimp in a single layer in the fryer basket, then spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
• For the spicy remoulade sauce: Meanwhile, stir together the mayonnaise, pickled jalapenos, mustard, ketchup, hot sauce and scallion in a small bowl until smooth. Serve with the fried shrimp for dipping.

Notes

For truly crispy air-fried shrimp, ensure they are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning and breading. Any excess moisture will prevent the panko from adhering properly and crisping up. When coating, create an efficient breading station with flour, egg, and panko bowls. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches to allow for even air circulation, which is vital for achieving a golden, crispy exterior. A light, even spray of nonstick cooking spray is sufficient; too much can make them greasy. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as shrimp cook very quickly – about 5 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. For the remoulade, adjust the amount of pickled jalapeños and hot sauce to your preferred spice level, and consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Bubba Burger Frozen Angus Beef Patties add gourmet touch with 100% USDA Choice Angus beef chuck. They cook consistently in 10 minutes, offering a tender, juicy bite with intense flavor. Gluten free and packed with protein (25g per patty), they’re perfect for Keto diets or anyone looking for quality. These patties are versatile and work with any cooking method, so they’re an indulgent, convenient option.

11. How Air Fryers Work Their Magic

Air fryers use hot air (360°F–400°F) to crisp up frozen burgers fast, usually in 15–20 minutes. The convection method cooks evenly, avoiding cold spots, and cuts fat by up to 75% compared to frying, per a 2021 NIH study. The result? A crunchy exterior and juicy interior, though you’ll want to watch cooking time to keep things moist.

12. Amping Up Air Fried Burger Flavor

Season frozen patties with salt, pepper, or a robust spice such as smoked paprika prior to cooking. Preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes to initiate browning, as recommended by Cook’s Illustrated. A brief spritz of oil aids in achieving that addictive crust through the Maillard reaction, according to USDA guidelines. These little details take your burgers to the next level.

13. Air Fryer Burger Fun Twists

Air fried burgers don’t necessarily need to remain on a bun. Introduce a “Burger Bowl” with chopped patties over greens, topped with tomato, cheese, and your choice of dressing. “Stuffed Burgers” with cheese or jalapenos provide a surprise center. Or try “Burger Tacos,” combining chopped patties with avocado and salsa in taco shells. These alternatives make burgers interesting and varied.

14. Mastering Air Fried Burgers

Preheat your air fryer to make for a crunchier patty and quicker cooking, according to a 2022 Culinary Institute study. Ensure burgers reach 160°F using a meat thermometer for safety, as the CDC suggests. Let them sit for a minute or two after they’re cooked to retain juices trapped inside, so each bite is tender and yummy. These tips guarantee an ideal burger every time.