How to cook sliders in air fryer? - Chef's Resource (2024)

Sliders, those small and delicious hamburgers, are a popular choice for parties, game nights, or just a quick snack. Traditionally, sliders are cooked on a stove or grill, but have you ever considered using an air fryer? Yes, you read that right! Air fryers can be an excellent alternative for cooking sliders. In this article, we will walk you through the process of how to cook sliders in an air fryer, along with some helpful tips and tricks to ensure they turn out perfect every time.

How to cook sliders in an air fryer?

To cook sliders in an air fryer, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat it for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the sliders: While the air fryer is preheating, prepare your sliders by shaping the ground beef into small patties about the size of the buns. Season the patties with salt, pepper, or any other desired seasonings.
3. Place the sliders in the air fryer: Once the air fryer is preheated, place the sliders in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each slider to allow for even cooking.
4. Cook the sliders: Cook the sliders in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a slice of cheese on top of each slider during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
5. Toast the buns: While the sliders are cooking, you can also toast the buns in the air fryer for a minute or two to give them a nice crispy texture.
6. Assemble your sliders: Once the sliders are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute or two. Then, assemble your sliders by placing each patty on a bun and adding your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or sauces.
7. Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious sliders and enjoy!

Now that you know how to cook sliders in an air fryer, let’s address some frequently asked questions about this cooking method.

1. Can I use frozen sliders in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use frozen sliders in an air fryer. Simply adjust the cooking time by adding a couple of minutes to ensure they are cooked through.

2. Do I need to flip the sliders while cooking?

Flipping the sliders is not necessary when using an air fryer, as the hot air circulates around the food, providing even cooking on all sides.

3. Can I cook vegetarian sliders in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Whether you’re using meatless patties or vegetable-based sliders, the process remains the same. Adjust the cooking time according to the specific product’s instructions.

4. What alternative seasonings can I use for sliders?

Apart from the traditional salt and pepper, you can experiment with various seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

5. Can I cook sliders in a smaller air fryer?

Yes, you can cook sliders in a smaller air fryer. However, you might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring proper air circulation and even cooking.

6. Can I make mini cheeseburgers using sliders in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Sliders are perfect for making mini cheeseburgers. Simply add a slice of cheese on top of each patty during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to melt it.

7. Can I use a different type of meat for sliders?

Yes, you can use different types of ground meat, such as chicken, turkey, or pork, to make sliders in an air fryer. Adjust the cooking time according to the specific type of meat you choose.

8. Do I need to preheat the air fryer for sliders?

Yes, preheating the air fryer is recommended for even cooking and better results. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes before adding the sliders.

9. Can I use different types of buns for sliders in an air fryer?

Of course! Feel free to use any type of buns you prefer, whether they are potato rolls, brioche buns, or whole wheat buns. Adjust the toasting time accordingly.

10. What other toppings can I add to my sliders?

In addition to the traditional toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, you can also try adding caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, avocado slices, or your favorite sauces to elevate the flavor.

11. Can I cook sliders and fries together in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook sliders and fries together in an air fryer. Just make sure to give each enough space for proper air circulation and adjust the cooking time for each item accordingly.

12. How can I prevent my sliders from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To prevent sticking, you can lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help the sliders easily release without leaving any residue behind.

Now that you have all the information needed, it’s time to fire up your air fryer and enjoy some delicious sliders made with less oil and mess, and more convenience and flavor.