If you love sausages but want a quick, easy, and healthier way to cook them, the air fryer is your new best friend. Cooking sausage in an air fryer delivers perfectly crispy skins and juicy insides without the mess of frying or the wait of baking. Plus, it’s super convenient and fast! Here’s everything you need to know to make delicious air fryer sausages every time.
Why Cook Sausage in an Air Fryer?
The air fryer uses hot circulating air to cook food evenly and quickly, making it a great tool for sausages. Unlike pan-frying, you don’t need much oil, which means less grease and fewer calories. It’s also less messy than cooking on the stove because the fat drips away into the basket. And best of all, it cooks sausages faster than an oven, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior that’s hard to beat.
What You’ll Need
– Your favorite sausages (Italian, breakfast links, bratwurst, chicken, turkey, or any kind)
– A fork or paring knife (optional, for poking holes)
– Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
– Meat thermometer (recommended for perfect doneness)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Sausage in an Air Fryer
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Starting with a hot air fryer helps sausages cook evenly and get that nice crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Sausages
– If you like, use a fork or paring knife to poke a few small holes in each sausage. This helps steam escape and prevents bursting while cooking.
– Pat the sausages dry with a paper towel if they’re wet.
– Lightly brush or spray them with olive oil if you want extra crispiness, though this is optional.
3. Arrange the Sausages in the Basket
Place the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping so the hot air can circulate freely around each sausage for even cooking.
4. Cook the Sausages
– Cook fresh or thawed sausages at 400°F for about 9 to 12 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to brown evenly on all sides.
– For thinner breakfast sausages, cook for 8 to 12 minutes; for thicker sausages like bratwurst or Italian links, cook 12 to 18 minutes.
– If cooking from frozen, increase cooking time by about 50%. Flip and separate sausages halfway through.
– Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer: 160°F for pork, lamb, or veal sausages, and 165°F for poultry sausages.
5. Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, let the sausages rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them juicy and flavorful when you bite in.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Sausage
– Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give sausages space to cook evenly.
– Use a thermometer: Sausages are done when the internal temperature reaches safe levels (160°F or 165°F depending on type).
– Flip halfway: This ensures even browning.
– Avoid poking holes if you want juicier sausages: Some prefer not to pierce the casing to keep all the juices inside.
– Add veggies: Toss sliced peppers and onions in the basket during the last few minutes for a tasty side.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer sausages are versatile! Serve them with:
– A fresh green salad or coleslaw
– Fluffy rice or mashed potatoes
– Grilled peppers and onions
– Breakfast sides like eggs and toast
– Tossed into pasta, pizza, or sandwiches
Why You’ll Love Cooking Sausage in the Air Fryer
It’s fast, simple, and less messy than traditional methods. Plus, the sausages come out crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly cooked every time. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast or a hearty dinner, the air fryer makes sausage cooking effortless and delicious.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked sausages with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!
Sausage in an air fryer is a game-changer-crispy, juicy, and ready in minutes with almost no cleanup. Give it a try and taste the difference!