Air Fryer Bubba Burgers are easy, fast, and juicy. You do not need to thaw them first. Just pull the frozen patties from the freezer, season if you want, and let the air fryer do the work.
Makes: 4 burgers
Cook time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total time: about 20 minutes
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it feels like a cookout without the grill. I keep Bubba Burgers in the freezer for busy nights when I need dinner fast. The air fryer makes the outside browned and the inside juicy, and I do not have to stand over a hot pan.
- No thawing needed
- Great for quick dinners
- Easy cleanup
- Juicy burgers every time
- Simple to dress up with your favorite toppings
Why This Recipe Works Quick Science
Frozen Bubba Burgers have enough fat to stay juicy while they cook. The air fryer blows hot air all around the patty. This helps the outside brown while the inside cooks through. Flipping halfway helps both sides cook evenly.
What You’ll Need
- 4 frozen Bubba Burger beef patties
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, optional
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickle chips
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon softened butter, for buns, optional
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Small knife
- Cutting board
- Plate
- Butter knife
Pro Tips
- Do not thaw the patties. Cook them straight from frozen.
- Leave space between burgers so the hot air can move around.
- Use a meat thermometer. Beef burgers should reach 160°F.
- Add cheese during the last 1 minute so it melts without flying around.
- Toast the buns for better flavor and texture.
Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 370°F for 3 minutes. This helps the frozen burgers start cooking right away.
Step 2: Add the Frozen Burgers
Place 4 frozen Bubba Burger beef patties in the air fryer basket in one even layer. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper if using.
Step 3: Air Fry the First Side
Cook the burgers at 370°F for 6 minutes. The tops should start to brown and the edges should look cooked.
Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking
Flip each burger with tongs. Cook for 6 to 9 more minutes, until the center reaches 160°F.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Place 1 slice American cheese on each hot burger. Air fry for 30 to 60 seconds, just until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Toast the Buns
Spread 1 tablespoon softened butter over 4 hamburger buns if using. Toast them in the air fryer for 1 to 2 minutes, until lightly golden.
Step 7: Build the Burgers
Place each cheesy burger on a toasted bun. Add 4 lettuce leaves, sliced tomato from 1 large tomato, sliced red onion from 1/2 red onion, 1/2 cup pickle chips, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 1/4 cup yellow mustard.
Macros Information
Per burger, estimated:
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
Macros will change based on bun size, cheese, and toppings.
Common Mistakes
- Cooking too many burgers at once. This blocks the hot air.
- Forgetting to flip. One side may cook faster than the other.
- Adding cheese too early. It can melt off or blow around.
- Not checking the temperature. Use 160°F for beef burgers.
- Using very soft buns without toasting. They can get soggy.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, or provolone instead of American cheese.
- Use brioche buns, sesame buns, or lettuce wraps.
- Add bacon, barbecue sauce, ranch, or burger sauce.
- Use red onion, grilled onion, or no onion.
- Add jalapeños for heat.
What to Serve With
- Air fryer fries
- Potato chips
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
- Baked beans
- Side salad
- Pickle spears
Make Ahead Tips
You can slice the tomato, red onion, and lettuce ahead of time. Keep them in the fridge until ready to use. Cook the burgers fresh for the best taste.
Leftovers and Storage
Store cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. Store buns and toppings apart so they do not get soggy.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to thaw Bubba Burgers first?
A: No. Cook them straight from frozen.
Q: What temperature should I use?
A: 370°F works well for juicy burgers.
Q: How do I know they are done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The center should be 160°F.
Q: Can I cook more than 4 burgers?
A: Yes, but cook in batches. Do not stack them.
Q: Can I use turkey Bubba Burgers?
A: Yes, but check the package and cook until they reach 165°F.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Bubba Burgers are simple, juicy, and great when you need dinner fast. Try them with your favorite toppings, then leave a comment and share how yours turned out.