The Absolute Best Guide on How to Reheat a Burger

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Leftover burgers often pose a dilemma. How does one resurrect the flame-grilled taste, the juiciness, and the overall perfection of that first bite? In this guide, we’ll show you how to reheat a burger and restore it to its former glory!

From the room temperature method to the sizzle of a frying pan, we cover various reheating methods, ensuring that your leftover burger patties get a second chance to shine.

Related: how to reheat sourdough bread, how to reheat a burrito, turkey avocado burger recipe, how to reheat artichoke, how to reheat brownies

Full burger featured image.

First Step to Reheating Burgers the Right Way

For best results, allow your leftover hamburgers to come to room temperature. Bringing a cold burger to room temperature is an often-overlooked step. Doing this before applying heat ensures an even reheating process, guaranteeing that every bite is as flavorful as the first. Make sure that the burger is not left out for too long to avoid any food safety concerns.

Turkey avocado burger recipe featured image.

How to Reheat a Burger: The Different Methods

For best results, allow your leftover hamburgers to come to room temperature. Bringing a cold burger to room temperature is an often-overlooked step. Doing this before applying heat ensures an even reheating process, guaranteeing that every bite is as flavorful as the first. Make sure that the burger is not left out for too long to avoid any food safety concerns.

Microwave Method

We’ll admit that using a microwave to reheat a burger is one of the most convenient ways to accomplish this task. It’s an easy method that requires only a few, simple steps:

  • Procedure: Place hamburger patty on a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a slightly damp paper towel, and microwave in short bursts, checking for even heating. You can also employ the. reheat setting. 
  • Advantages: It’s the fastest method; however, it might not maintain the burger’s texture and juiciness.
  • Top Tips: Consider adding a little bit of water in a small cup to the microwave. This will create steam and prevent being left with a dry burger.

If you’re short on time or just borderline, hangry, this is the best method for you.  

Stovetop Method

The stovetop frying pan method is quick and effective way that imparts a fresh, flame-grilled taste to the reheated burger.

  • Procedure: Warm up a frying pan or cast iron skillet on medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil, place burger in the oiled pan and sear each side for 2-3 minutes. Additionally, you can add in a few tablespoons of water or beef stock to assist in restoring the burger’s juiciness.
  • Advantages: This method is a great choice for achieving the best flavor. 
  • Top Tips: Be cautious not to overcook; a brief sear is usually sufficient.
Two hamburger patties in a frying pan.

Oven Method

Reheating burgers in a regular oven, on a baking sheet ensures an even distribution of heat.

  • Procedure: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the burger on a baking pan and warm it for about 10-15 minutes. For thicker patties, flip them over halfway through the cooking time. 
  • Advantages: The oven’s even heat is a great way to maintain the burger’s moisture and in achieving a consistent reheating.
  • Top Tips: Cover the burger with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Woman and child taking bread out of the oven.

Air Fryer Method

Reheating a burger in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior and maintain a juicy burger. This method is also ideal for reheating a side of fries! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reheat a burger in an air fryer:

  • Procedure: Set your air fryer to a temperature of about 350°F (175°C). Allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Lightly spritz the surface of the burger with water or olive oil. This helps prevent the burger from drying out during the reheating process. Put the burger in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer timer for around 3-4 minutes. This is usually sufficient to heat the burger thoroughly. 
  • Advantages: Reheating a burger in an air fryer provides a balance of crispiness and juiciness, giving you a delicious second-round dining experience. Another advantage of using the air fryer is that this method works with any kind of burger such as a turkey burger, veggie burger, fast food burger, and of course, beef burgers. 
  • Top Tips: Check the meat burger for the desired level of crispiness. If it needs more time, add another minute or two, checking regularly to prevent overcooking.
Air fryer image.

Mastering how to reheat a burger is an art that combines the science of preserving juiciness with achieving that irresistible crispy texture. Reheating and enjoying leftovers is also a great way to cut down on food waste.

Among the various methods available, finding the best way that suits your preferences is crucial for ensuring a consistently delicious burger. Whether it’s on a stovetop, in an oven, or in an air fryer, the key lies in being armed with these different ways. You’ll be ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of your burger in no time!

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Storage

Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover burgers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

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