Healthy Frying: Cooking Sausages The Right Way

Cooking sausages in a health fryer is not only possible but also a convenient, quick, and healthy option. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, which means they cook quickly and use less energy than a conventional oven. They are also healthier than frying sausages in a pan, as the sausages are not sitting in fat, grease, and oil. The cooking process is simple: prick the sausages with a fork or knife, set the temperature to between 180°C and 200°C, and cook for 8 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through. The result is a sausage that is crispy and brown on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Cooking frozen sausages

To cook frozen sausages in an air fryer, first, remove the sausages from their packaging. If they are stuck together, run the package under cool water for a few minutes or microwave it for 30 seconds. You can also cook them together for 2-3 minutes and then separate them. There is no need to defrost the sausages beforehand. Preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 400°F for at least 5 minutes. If your sausages are on the thinner side, a higher temperature is recommended, and thicker sausages will require a slightly lower temperature. Place the sausages in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with enough room for heat and oil to circulate. If you desire extra crispiness, spray the sausages with cooking spray.

Cook the sausages for 4-5 minutes, then remove the basket and separate and redistribute them. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. The sausages are ready when they are browned and crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. To ensure they are cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.

You can serve the sausages as is, in a bun, over pasta, or as part of a classic sausage and peppers dish. Enjoy!

Oil and grease

Air fryers are a great way to cook sausages, as they require little to no oil, reducing the fat content in your meals. However, over time, grease from the food you cook can build up in the air fryer basket and pan, even if you are cooking foods that do not require oil. This can result in a thin layer of baked-on grease that is challenging to remove.

To prevent this, it is important to clean your air fryer regularly. While some people may be tempted to use harsh chemicals or aggressive methods to remove grease, this can compromise the integrity of the non-stick coating. Instead, it is recommended to use a standard dish soap detergent with high degreasing properties, such as Dawn Powerwash Dish Spray, and a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub away any grease buildup. You can also make a paste with baking soda and lemon juice to help scrape off stuck-on food and grease.

When cleaning your air fryer, be sure to pay attention to the heating coil, as oil or residue can build up on it. Always unplug the machine and let it cool down before wiping the coil with a damp cloth or soft dish brush. It is important to towel-dry or air-dry all parts completely before reassembling the air fryer.

Additionally, when cooking greasy foods like sausages, it is a good idea to use a non-stick spray before cooking to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier. By following these tips, you can keep your air fryer basket clean and free of grease buildup.

Cooking times and temperatures

For raw pork sausage links, cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you are using thicker links like bratwurst or Italian sausages, you can cook them from frozen, but it will take a bit longer, around 12 to 15 minutes.

Chicken or turkey sausages require similar cooking times to raw pork sausages. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. Veggie sausages may take a bit less time, around 8 to 10 minutes, to heat through.

Pre-cooked sausages, such as hot dogs, only need to be heated through. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the specific model of your health fryer and the desired level of doneness. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the best cooking times specific to your device. Additionally, it is advisable to check the sausages halfway through the cooking process and give them a shake or flip to ensure even cooking and browning.

To ensure food safety and the best cooking results, it is recommended to check the internal temperature of the sausages with a meat thermometer. Pork sausages should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C to 71°C), while chicken sausages must hit a minimum of 165°F (74°C).

Sausage types

Sausages are available in a variety of forms, each with its own distinct flavour and texture. Here is a guide to the different types of sausages that can be cooked in a health fryer:

Fresh Sausages

These sausages require cooking before consumption and include varieties such as Italian sausage and breakfast links. Fresh sausages are perfect for air frying as they cook and brown evenly without the need to flip them. The result is a sausage with a crisp, brown exterior and a juicy interior. To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and arrange the sausages in a single layer in the basket. Depending on the thickness, fresh sausages typically take around 8-12 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Smoked Sausages

Smoked sausages are pre-cooked and have a distinct flavour from the smoking process. Examples include kielbasa, hot dogs, and the famous German bratwurst, which is typically made from veal, beef, or pork. Smoked sausages can be cooked straight from frozen in the air fryer, making them a convenient option for a quick and easy meal.

Dried Sausages

Dried sausages, such as salami and chorizo, are cured and ready to eat but can also be heated in the air fryer. Dried sausages are typically cooked until they are warm, making them a versatile option for snacks or meals.

German Sausages

Germany boasts over 1,200 types of sausages, each with its own unique flavour and preparation method. Some of the most well-known German sausages include bratwurst, weisswurst (a white sausage made from veal and bacon), and blutwurst (a blood sausage made with pork rind and blood). German sausages can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, grilling, or boiling, and are often served with mustard, pretzels, or potato salad.

Other Varieties

In addition to the types mentioned above, there are numerous other sausages to explore, such as the Cajun Andouille sausage, which is a smoked pork sausage with a heavy garlic flavour, perfect for adding to gumbo or jambalaya. Or, if you're looking for something different, try the grilled boudin from Houston, which is a unique sausage from South Louisiana that is half-rice and half-meat.

Serving suggestions

Sausages cooked in a health fryer can be served in a variety of ways. They can be enjoyed on their own, as part of a larger meal, or as part of a brunch spread.

For a healthy option, consider pairing them with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and spinach. You can also add a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance out the richness of the sausages. If you want to add some extra protein, serve the sausages with scrambled eggs. For a more substantial meal, serve the sausages in a whole-grain bun with toppings like mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, grilled onions, or sliced avocado. You can also get creative and add the sausages to pasta dishes, casseroles, or stir-fried rice.

For a hearty option, serve the sausages with mashed potatoes or baked beans on the side. If you're looking for a lighter meal, pair the sausages with a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with breakfast items like eggs, toast, or pancakes for a filling brunch.

If you're cooking for a crowd, you can thread the sausages onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini and air fry them for a colourful and tasty meal.

Frequently asked questions