Air-Fryer Patty Sausage: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Cooking sausage patty in an air fryer is a convenient and tasty way to prepare a quick breakfast. The air fryer is a popular method for cooking raw Italian sausage, brats, link sausage, and breakfast sausage patties. It is also a healthier option compared to traditional pan-frying, as it requires less oil and fewer calories. The air fryer is also known for its even airflow, eliminating the need to flip the patties during cooking. The cooking time for sausage patties in an air fryer varies depending on the desired level of crispiness and whether they are fresh or frozen. On average, fresh patties take around 8 to 12 minutes, while frozen patties may take up to 17 minutes.

Cooking times and temperatures

For fresh patties, it is recommended to cook them at 370–400 °F (188–204 °C) for 8–10 minutes. If you like your sausages with a crispy texture, you can cook them for up to 12 minutes. For frozen patties, the cooking time is slightly longer, ranging from 10 to 17 minutes at the same temperature. If you want your sausages extra crispy, you can cook them for up to 20 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the patties. Larger patties may require a longer cooking time, while smaller patties may be ready in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer for about 3 minutes before adding the patties, while others suggest skipping the preheating step.

When cooking, it is recommended to place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring that there is enough space between them for proper airflow. If you are using a solid tray, you should flip the patties halfway through the cooking process. However, if you are using an air fryer basket or tray with holes, flipping is optional and may not be necessary.

To check if your sausages are cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 160–165 °F (70–74 °C).

Using frozen vs fresh patties

Sausage patties can be cooked in an air fryer from both fresh and frozen states. The main difference between the two is the cooking time, with frozen patties taking a few minutes longer to cook than fresh ones. Frozen patties are also pre-cooked, so they only need to be heated thoroughly, whereas fresh patties need to be cooked to a safe internal temperature.

When cooking fresh sausage patties in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to between 370 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The patties should be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with space between them so they are not touching. The cooking time will depend on the size of the patties, but it usually takes around 6-12 minutes for the patties to reach a safe internal temperature of 160-165 degrees Fahrenheit. Flipping the patties is optional, but if using a solid tray, they should be flipped halfway through cooking.

Frozen sausage patties can be cooked directly from their frozen state, without the need to thaw them first. The air fryer should be preheated to around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and the patties should be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket. The cooking time will depend on the size of the patties, but it usually takes around 4-12 minutes for the patties to be heated thoroughly. As with fresh patties, flipping is optional but recommended if using a solid tray.

Using an air fryer to cook sausage patties has several benefits. It eliminates the grease splatter that can occur when cooking sausages on a stovetop, and it can also produce a crispier texture that some people prefer. Additionally, the air fryer can cook food more quickly and evenly than an oven or stove, making it a convenient option for a quick breakfast or lunch.

How to get the perfect crisp

To get the perfect crisp on your sausage patties, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Some sources suggest preheating to 390°F, while others recommend cooking at 370°F. It seems that cooking at a slightly lower temperature for a longer time may result in a crispier patty. Grease the inside of the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. This step is optional, but if you want a crispy crust, it is recommended.

Next, place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It is important to ensure there is adequate space between each patty, as air flow is crucial for even cooking. If you are cooking frozen patties, you can place them directly into the air fryer from their frozen state. There is no need to thaw them first. For fresh patties, aim for a cooking time of 8-10 minutes, and for frozen, 10-15 minutes. If you like your patties extra crispy, you can cook them for a little longer, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Halfway through the cooking time, flip the patties to ensure even cooking. However, if you are using a standard air fryer basket with holes or a rack, flipping is unnecessary. Finally, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the patties has reached 160°F (71°C). Once they have reached this temperature, you can remove them from the air fryer and let them sit for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the patties moist and tasty.

Now you're ready to serve and enjoy your perfectly crispy sausage patties!

Cleanliness and convenience

Air fryers are a convenient and clean way to cook sausage patties. They are a great alternative to frying or baking, as they reduce the mess and grease splatter that can occur when cooking with other methods. The air fryer contains the grease splatter, keeping your counters and stove clean. This makes clean-up a breeze, as there is no need to scrub away oil and grime from multiple pans and surfaces.

The air fryer is also a convenient way to cook sausage patties, as it cooks food more quickly than an oven or stove. It is also a healthier option, as it requires less oil and fewer calories. The hot air in the fryer cooks the patties to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a juicy interior, without the need for added fats or oils.

Additionally, air fryers are very easy to use. There is no need to thaw frozen sausage patties before cooking, and fresh patties can be cooked as is. The patties can be cooked directly from their frozen state, and most packages will state "cook from frozen" or "do not thaw". The cooking process is simple, and the patties can be cooked in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Air fryers also provide convenience in terms of preparation and clean-up. There is no need to preheat the air fryer, and the patties can be cooked directly in the air fryer basket or tray. The use of air fryer liners further adds to the convenience, as they can be thrown away after cooking, eliminating the need to scrub the air fryer.

Serving suggestions

Sausage patties cooked in an air fryer can be served in a variety of ways. For breakfast, you can serve them with eggs and toast, or add them to an English muffin with cheese and a slice of tomato for a homemade breakfast sandwich. You can also add them to an egg and cheese breakfast burrito or a spinach and egg burrito. If you're feeling indulgent, try making a bacon, egg, and cheese crescent ring, substituting the sausage patty for the bacon.

For a heartier meal, you can serve the sausage patties with gluten-free pancakes, hash browns, or French toast bites. You can also add them to a breakfast spread or brunch, offering a savory option alongside sweeter dishes.

If you have any leftover sausage patties, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 6 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer, skillet, or microwave.

Frequently asked questions