This Air Fryer Copycat Whataburger Classic delivers juicy beef, melted cheese, fresh veggies, and tangy sauce—all packed into a toasted bun. A lighter, homemade take on the iconic Texas burger, ready in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
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1 beef patty (about 4–5 oz / 120–140g)
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1 burger bun (brioche or classic style)
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1 slice American cheese
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2–3 slices tomato
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Shredded iceberg lettuce
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3 dill pickle slices
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1 tsp yellow mustard
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1 tbsp diced white onion
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Salt & black pepper
Signature Sauce (optional but recommended):
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2 tbsp mayonnaise
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1 tsp ketchup
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½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
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¼ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Mix together and set aside.
How To Make It:
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Form the patty
Shape your beef patty wide and thin — Whataburger-style. Season both sides with salt and pepper. -
Air fry the beef
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the patty for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook to your desired doneness. -
Warm the bun
Place the bun in the air fryer for the last 1–2 minutes of cooking (optional) to lightly toast it. -
Assemble the burger
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Bottom bun
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(Optional) Signature sauce
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Beef patty
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Slice of American cheese
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Pickles
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Tomato slices
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Diced onion
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Shredded lettuce
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Ketchup + mustard
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Top bun
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Serve hot with fries or onion rings!
Pro Tips:
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Use 80/20 ground beef for that juicy, authentic texture.
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Want it spicier? Add sliced jalapeños like in the Whataburger Jalapeño & Cheese Burger.
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Add the cheese in the last minute of air frying so it melts perfectly.
You Must Know
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Flat and wide patties are the key to an authentic Whataburger-style look and taste.
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Don’t skip the sauce — it brings that signature tang and richness.
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Use shredded lettuce and diced onions for the exact Whataburger texture.
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Cooking in the air fryer keeps the burger juicy while avoiding excess grease.
Topping Variations
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Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
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Bacon Lover’s: Add two crispy air-fried bacon strips.
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Avocado Style: Top with a few slices of avocado or guacamole.
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Double Trouble: Stack two thin patties for a double Whataburger.
Make It A Meal
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Serve with air fryer French fries or onion rings.
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Add a cold soda or homemade milkshake on the side.
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For a Tex-Mex twist, pair it with air fryer tortilla chips and queso dip.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen beef patties?
Yes, but thaw first for best shape and seasoning.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Classic American cheese gives that signature melt, but you can use cheddar or pepper jack for variation.
Can I skip the sauce?
You can, but the signature sauce really boosts the flavor. Even plain mayo + ketchup will work in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked patties in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
