Air-Fryer Turkey Sausages: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Turkey sausages are a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausages, and cooking them in an air fryer makes them even healthier. Air fryers are a quick, easy, and mess-free way to cook turkey sausages, and they can cook a lot at once. The sausages turn out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. You can also cook frozen sausages in the air fryer, but it is recommended to defrost them first. The air fryer temperature should be set to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and the sausages should be cooked for 8-12 minutes.

Cooking temperature and time

If you are cooking turkey breakfast sausage patties, preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Form your sausage mixture into eight balls, and press down to make thin patties. Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer and cook for 5 minutes. Then, flip the patties and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.

If you are cooking turkey breakfast sausage links, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the thawed sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the sausages with 3 to 4 pumps of oil. Air fry for about 12 minutes, checking and turning or shaking the sausages at the 5- to 6-minute mark. The sausages are ready when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are cooking thicker sausages, like Italian sausage links, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Poke holes in the casings to allow the fat to escape, and place the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are cooking a meal of smoked turkey sausage and potatoes, cut the potatoes into smaller sizes so they cook faster. The cooking time will depend on the size of the sausages and potatoes, but it should take around 20 to 22 minutes.

Oil type and quantity

Air fryers are a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods as they require significantly less oil. This also means there are fewer calories and less fat in your meals.

When cooking turkey sausages in an air fryer, it is recommended to lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil to prevent the sausages from sticking. You can use an oil spray or brush to evenly distribute the oil before placing the sausages inside. This step will also make cleaning the air fryer easier.

The type of oil you use is important. Avocado or canola oil is recommended due to their high smoke point. Additionally, it is important to use a non-propellant spray to avoid damaging the surface of your air fryer.

The amount of oil used depends on the number of sausages being cooked. As a guide, for a single layer of sausages, you will need around 2-4 pumps of oil spray or a light coating of oil if using a brush.

Sausage preparation

Defrosting and Preparing the Sausages:

Start by defrosting your turkey sausages if they are frozen. You can do this by transferring them to the refrigerator a day before cooking or using the defrost setting on your microwave. If you're in a hurry, you can cook frozen sausages directly in the air fryer, but they may take longer to cook.

Once your sausages are thawed, place them on a clean surface and use a paring knife or a fork to poke a few holes in the casings. This step is important as it allows the fat to escape from the casing during cooking, preventing splatter and ensuring even cooking.

Seasoning and Shaping:

If you're using store-bought sausages, you can skip this step. However, if you're making homemade sausages, combine ground turkey with seasonings and a touch of maple syrup in a large bowl. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Next, shape your sausage mixture into patties or balls. For patties, roll the mixture into equal-sized balls and gently flatten them into thin patties. Remember, they will puff up during cooking, so flatten them more than you think is necessary.

Preheating the Air Fryer:

Before adding the sausages, preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for cooking turkey sausages is around 350°F to 400°F (176°C to 204°C). Preheating ensures that your sausages cook evenly and helps you achieve the desired crispiness.

Arranging the Sausages in the Air Fryer:

Place the sausages in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Make sure they are not stacked, but it's okay if they touch. If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to cook them in batches or use multiple trays or baskets.

Oil Spray:

For that extra crispy texture, spray the sausages with a thin coat of cooking oil. Avocado oil, canola oil, or propellant-free oil sprays are good options due to their higher smoke points. This step is optional but will enhance the browning of the sausages.

Your sausages are now ready to be cooked in the air fryer! Follow the cooking instructions provided by your air fryer manufacturer for the best results. Remember to check the sausages periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Air fryer preparation

Turkey sausages are a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausages, and cooking them in an air fryer is even healthier as the excess fat drains off. It is also quicker, easier, and less messy than cooking them in a frying pan. You can cook a lot of sausages at once in an air fryer, and there is very little cleanup afterward.

To prepare your turkey sausages in an air fryer, first, spray the bottom of the air fryer basket or drawer with a little oil. You can use cooking oil, such as canola or avocado oil, due to their higher smoke point. Then, add your thawed uncooked sausages on top of the grill in a single layer—do not stack them, but it's okay if they touch. Spray the sausages with oil—this will ensure they brown and have crispy skin. Set your air fryer to 350–400 degrees Fahrenheit or 176 degrees Celsius and cook for 8–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sausages. You can check if they are ready by cutting into one to ensure it is not pink inside, or by checking the internal temperature, which should be 160–165 degrees Fahrenheit when fully cooked.

You can also cook frozen sausages in an air fryer, although you may need to defrost them first, depending on the type of sausage. For thicker sausages like Bratwurst or Italian sausages, you can cook them straight from frozen, even if they are frozen in a clump. For breakfast sausages, it is recommended to defrost them first. If you are cooking fresh or thawed sausages, use a paring knife or a fork to poke holes in the casings to allow the fat to escape easily.

Turkey sausages can be served as part of a larger meal, such as with potatoes and vegetables, or on their own as a quick and easy breakfast or brunch option. They can be served in a bun, over pasta, or in a classic sausage and peppers preparation.

Serving suggestions

Turkey sausages cooked in an air fryer are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pork sausages. They are lower in fat and calories, and packed with flavour and protein. The air fryer also helps you achieve a crispy texture without the need for excess oil.

Breakfast Bowl

Serve the sausages alongside scrambled or fried eggs, sautéed spinach, and diced tomatoes. Top with avocado slices for a nutritious boost.

Breakfast Sandwich

Add a fried egg and cheese to a toasted English muffin or biscuit. You can also serve the sandwich in a whole-grain bun with toppings like mustard, sauerkraut, or grilled onions.

Skewers

Thread the sausages onto skewers with your favourite vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini. Air fry them for a colourful and tasty meal.

Side Dishes

Pair the sausages with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, baked beans, or sautéed vegetables. A fresh salad or coleslaw can also add a crisp texture and balance out the richness of the sausages.

Pasta and Stir-Fry

Incorporate the sausages into pasta dishes or stir-fries for a unique twist.

Old-Fashioned Pancakes

Serve the sausages with old-fashioned pancakes for a special occasion breakfast.

Frequently asked questions