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Air Fryer Veggie Burgers

Name: Air Fryer Veggie Burgers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups zucchini (shredded ); ¼ cup onions (diced); ½ cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt (& more for shredded zucchini); ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: June 18, 2023

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Air Fryer Veggie Burgers — Looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional beef burgers? These air fryer veggie burgers are perfect for you!

They are introducing a wholesome and delicious meal option for those seeking a plant-based or vegetarian twist on the classic burger – Air Fryer Veggie Burgers!

These flavorful patties are made from nutritious vegetables, legumes, and savory seasonings, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to reduce your meat consumption, or simply craving a tasty veggie-based meal, these Air Fryer Veggie Burgers are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying, meatless burger experience that’s both wholesome and easy to prepare.

If you have been looking for some great Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes. Here are some of my favorites AIR FRYER PARMESAN CRUSTED ZUCCHINI CRISPS, AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI BROWNIES, AIR FRYER LOW-CARB (KETO) EVERYTHING BAGEL ZUCCHINI CHIPS, and AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI FRITTERS.

What Are Homemade Veggie Burgers?

Homemade Veggie Burgers are flavorful and nutritious patties made from vegetables, legumes (such as beans or lentils), grains (such as rice or oats), and various seasonings. These burgers are a popular plant-based or vegetarian alternative to traditional meat burgers. And they are delicious enough for meat eaters!

The key components of homemade veggie burgers typically include:

Vegetables: Ingredients like black beans, chickpeas, mushrooms, carrots, spinach, bell peppers, and onions are commonly used to provide texture, flavor, and nutrients.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, or other legumes are often included as a source of protein and to create a satisfying texture.
Grains: Rolled oats, breadcrumbs, or cooked rice are used as binders to hold the burger together and give it structure.
Seasonings: Various seasonings and herbs, such as garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, and salt and pepper, are added to enhance the burger’s flavor.
Egg or Egg Replacements: Eggs or egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water are used as binders to help the burger hold its shape.
Optional Add-Ins: Some recipes may include additional ingredients like cheese, nuts, seeds, or spices to add extra flavor and texture.

Homemade veggie burgers are versatile and can be customized to suit individual preferences. They are typically pan-fried, grilled, baked, or, as the name suggests, cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior and a delicious, savory interior.

These burgers are an excellent choice for individuals looking for meatless or plant-based meal options, and they can be served on buns with various toppings and condiments, just like traditional burgers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Air Fryer Veggie Burger recipe for several fantastic reasons:

Healthy and Nutritious: These veggie burgers are packed with wholesome ingredients like vegetables, legumes, and grains, making them a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.
Meatless Delight: Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to reduce your meat consumption, these burgers offer a satisfying and flavorful alternative to meat-based options.
Crispy Exterior: Cooking them in the air fryer ensures a wonderfully crispy exterior, giving you that satisfying burger bite.
Customizable: You can tailor the ingredients and seasonings to your taste, allowing endless flavor variations. Add your favorite toppings and condiments for a personalized burger experience.
Quick and Easy: Air frying these veggie burgers is a breeze, making them a perfect weeknight meal option. They cook up faster than traditional oven baking or stovetop methods.
Versatile: These burgers are not just for buns! Serve them on a salad, in a wrap, or as a protein-packed side dish.
Family-Friendly: Even meat lovers in your family will appreciate these veggie burgers’ delicious taste and texture.
Less Cleanup: Air frying is a low-mess cooking method, which means less cleanup after enjoying your meal.

This Air Fryer Veggie Burger recipe combines health, taste, and convenience, making it a delightful addition to your repertoire of go-to recipes. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a quick weekday dinner, these burgers are a fantastic choice to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients Needed for Homemade Air Fryer Veggie Burgers

Get ready to create delicious, plant-based goodness with these Homemade Air Fryer Veggie Burgers. These burgers are a flavorful alternative to traditional meat patties, made with a combination of wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Zucchini: Shredded zucchini forms the base of these burgers, adding a hearty and meaty texture.
Onion and Garlic: Sautéed onion and garlic enhance the overall taste profile with their savory notes.
Spices and Herbs: A blend of cumin, paprika, chili powder, and fresh cilantro infuse the burgers with a delightful Southwestern flair.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the patties together.
Flaxseed Meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water serves as an egg substitute, providing the necessary binding and moisture.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, these burgers are perfectly seasoned to satisfy your palate.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps with sautéing the onions, garlic, and mushrooms, adding a touch of richness.
Burger Buns and Toppings (Optional): To complete your veggie burger experience, you can gather your favorite hamburger buns and toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and condiments.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to embark on a flavorful journey and craft these delicious Homemade Air Fryer Veggie Burgers that are both wholesome and satisfying. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply seeking a meatless meal option, these burgers are delightful.

How To Cook Juicy Veggie Burgers In Air Fryer

Cooking veggie burgers in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Follow these steps to cook Homemade Air Fryer Veggie Burgers to perfection:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Veggie Burgers: Use a vegetable peeler or food grater and grate your zucchini. Then spread it over paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and wait 10-15 minutes. The water will appear on top of the zucchini. Blot with paper towels to remove the moisture.

Add the zucchini, onions, bread crumbs, eggs, salt, and cayenne pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to form a mixture. If you need more bread crumbs, add them. You want them to stay together.

Air Fry: Shape the zucchini mixture into burger shapes. Spray your Air Fryer Basket with cooking spray and add your uncooked patties. (Alternatively, you can use a silicone air fryer liner) set the cooking time and air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F for 7 to 10 minutes, air fryer setting. Flip halfway during the cooking process.

Serve: Once the veggie burgers are perfect, remove them from the air fryer. If desired, toast your burger buns in the air fryer for a minute or two until lightly browned.

Assemble and Enjoy: Assemble your veggie burgers with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and condiments. Serve them on the toasted buns for a satisfying plant-based meal.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Homemade Air Fryer Veggie Burgers that are crispy on the outside and packed with flavor on the inside. They make for a delicious and wholesome meatless burger option that can be customized to your taste with various toppings and condiments.

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer Veggie Burgers are incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some recipe variations and ideas to make your veggie burgers even more exciting:

Spicy Southwest Veggie Burgers: Add diced jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes to the burger mixture for a spicy kick. Top with pepper jack cheese, avocado slices, and chipotle mayo for a Southwestern twist.
Mushroom and Swiss Veggie Burgers: Incorporate sautéed cremini or portobello mushrooms into the burger mixture for a rich, umami flavor. Melt Swiss cheese on top of the burgers during the last minute of air frying.
Greek-Inspired Veggie Burgers: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair. Serve with tzatziki sauce, cucumber slices, and fresh spinach.
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Veggie Burgers: Incorporate mashed sweet potatoes and cooked chickpeas into the burger mixture for a hearty texture. Serve with a dollop of tahini sauce, lettuce, and thinly sliced red onion.
Asian-Inspired Veggie Burgers: Mix grated ginger, soy sauce, and chopped scallions for an Asian twist. Top with teriyaki sauce, sliced cucumber, and pickled ginger.
Pesto Veggie Burgers: Blend fresh basil pesto into the burger mixture for a herbaceous flavor. Serve with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze drizzle.
Nutty Veggie Burgers: Add crushed nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.Top with a dollop of hummus, lettuce, and roasted red peppers.
Tofu Veggie Burgers: Incorporate crumbled tofu into the mixture for added protein. Serve with vegan mayo, avocado, and sprouts for a plant-based delight.
Vegan BBQ Veggie Burgers: Mix in your favorite vegan BBQ sauce for a smoky and tangy flavor. Top with vegan coleslaw and crispy fried onions for a barbecue-inspired treat.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your perfect Air Fryer Veggie Burger Patties. Whether you’re a vegetarian or want to enjoy a meatless meal, these variations offer delicious possibilities.

Pro Tips

To achieve the best results when making Air Fryer Veggie Burgers, consider these pro tips:

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Like any cooking method, preheating your air fryer is essential. Preheat it to the specified temperature (usually around 375°F or 190°C) for a few minutes before placing the veggie burgers inside. This ensures even and consistent cooking.
Use Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking and achieve a crispy exterior, lightly spray or brush the veggie burgers with cooking oil or olive oil before placing them in the air fryer basket. This step helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the veggie burgers in a single layer with some space between them. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, and the burgers may not crisp properly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
Flip Halfway Through: To ensure both sides of the veggie burgers cook evenly, flip them halfway through the cooking time. This step helps achieve that desirable crispiness on both sides.
Check Internal Temperature: If you’re unsure whether the veggie burgers are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. They should reach a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Customize Toppings: This recipe for best veggie burger is versatile and can be customized with various toppings and condiments. Get creative with your choices to enhance the flavor. Classic options include lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese, and various sauces.
Use a Meatless Burger Patty: Choose your favorite meatless burger patty or prepare homemade veggie burger patties. Numerous options include black bean, chickpea, mushroom, and quinoa-based patties.
Experiment with Seasonings: Season the veggie burger patties with your preferred spices and seasonings. Common choices include garlic, onion, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Toast the Buns: For added texture and flavor, consider toasting the burger buns in the air fryer for a minute or two until they’re lightly browned. This step prevents the buns from becoming soggy.
Serve with Sides: Veggie burgers pair well with various sides, such as sweet potato fries, french fries, coleslaw, salad, or fresh fruit. Choose sides that complement the flavors of your burgers.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and perfectly cooked Air Fryer Veggie Burgers that are crispy on the outside and satisfyingly flavorful on the inside. Enjoy your meatless burger with your favorite toppings and sides for a wholesome meal.

Faq’s

Can I use frozen veggie burger patties in the air fryer? Yes, you can cook air fryer frozen veggie burgers. Follow the cooking instructions on the frozen vegetable burger packaging, but generally, they cook well at around 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I prevent veggie burgers from falling apart in the air fryer? To prevent veggie burgers from falling apart, lightly spray or brush them with cooking oil before cooking. This helps create a protective layer and can help them hold their shape. Additionally, handle them gently when flipping to avoid breaking.

Can I make homemade veggie burger patties for the air fryer? Absolutely! Homemade veggie burger patties work well in the air fryer. You can shape them according to your preferences and follow the same cooking instructions as store-bought patties.

What temperature and time should I use for cooking veggie burgers in the air fryer? Preheat the air fryer to around 375°F (190°C). Cook veggie burgers for about 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time may vary based on the thickness and brand of veggie burger patties, so keep an eye on them.

Are veggie burgers healthier when cooked in an air fryer compared to frying in oil? Cooking vegan burgers in an air fryer typically requires less oil than traditional frying methods. Therefore, they can be healthier as they have less added fat. However, the overall healthiness depends on the ingredients in the veggie burgers.

Can I cook more than one veggie burger in the air fryer? Yes, you can cook multiple veggie burgers at once in the air fryer, but avoid overcrowding the basket. Make sure space between the patties allows for proper air circulation and cooking. This will be based on the type of air fryer you own and are using; cook in batches for the best juicy patties. The second batch will usually cook faster than the first, so watch as they cook up.

What are some popular toppings and condiments for veggie burgers? Popular toppings and condiments for veggie burgers include lettuce, tomato slices, onion, pickles, cheese, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, avocado, and various types of vegan or dairy-based sauces. Serve on your favorite burger buns, for a quick dinner, and perfect for meal prep.

How to store leftover vegan burger: Let the cooked burgers cool to room temperature, and then transfer to an iatihg container, the uncooked burgers will last in the refrigoetr for 2-3 days.

Can I reheat leftover veggie burgers in the air fryer? Yes, you can reheat leftover veggie burgers in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to around 350°F (175°C) and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through.

Are veggie burgers suitable for vegetarians and vegans? Veggie burgers are a popular choice for both vegetarians and vegans. However, it’s essential to check the ingredients and labels to ensure they align with your dietary preferences.

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