Cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer is an easy, convenient, and less greasy alternative to frying them on a stovetop. The air fryer's circulating hot air cooks the sausages evenly, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This method is also ideal for busy mornings, as it requires minimal preparation and cleanup.
What You'll Learn
How to cook breakfast sausage links in an air fryer
Ingredients
Sausage links (fresh or frozen)
Optional ingredients
- Oil spray (if your sausages are very lean)
- Bread (to soak up grease and prevent smoking)
- Water (a few splashes to prevent smoking)
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F–400°F.
- Place the sausages in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
- Cook for 8–12 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the sausages halfway through.
- Check the sausages are cooked by ensuring the internal temperature has reached 160°F. They should be brown on the outside and no longer pink on the inside.
- Serve immediately.
Tips
- If your sausages are frozen, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.
- If your sausages are very lean, you may want to add a little spray oil or rub a little butter on the cooking surface.
- If you want your sausages extra crispy, add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
- To prevent the air fryer from smoking, make sure it is clean before using it. You can also add a few splashes of water to the bottom of the air fryer or put some bread in the bottom to soak up the grease.
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The benefits of cooking sausages in an air fryer
Air fryers are a convenient and effective way to cook breakfast sausages, offering several benefits over traditional frying methods. Here are some advantages of using an air fryer for your morning links:
Quick and Easy
With an air fryer, you can have juicy, golden-brown sausages on your breakfast plate in as little as 8 to 12 minutes. The cooking process is simple and mostly hands-free, allowing you to prepare the rest of your breakfast or go about your morning routine while your sausages cook to perfection.
No Mess, No Fuss
Air fryers contain the grease splatter that comes with frying sausages on a stovetop, making for a much easier cleanup. You also don't need to worry about constantly turning the sausages or babysitting the pan to prevent burning or smoke alarms going off.
Healthier Option
Air frying sausages reduces the need for excess oil, leading to a lower fat content in your meal. The air fryer's circulating hot air ensures even cooking and browning without the need for additional oil or cooking spray.
Versatile and Delicious
Whether you prefer pork, chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages, the air fryer handles them all beautifully. You can also experiment with different flavors, from spicy Italian sausage links to sweet apple-infused or maple sausages. The air fryer delivers that perfect level of crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside succulent and juicy.
Easy Reheating and Storage
You can easily reheat your air-fried sausages in the air fryer, microwave, or stovetop, and they can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating in the air fryer helps maintain the sausages' flavor and texture, ensuring you can enjoy delicious, crispy sausages any time.
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How to prevent sausages from sticking to the air fryer basket
Yes, you can make breakfast sausage links in an air fryer. It's a quick and easy way to cook a protein-based breakfast with minimal cleanup.
To prevent sausages from sticking to the air fryer basket, you can try the following:
Preheat the Air Fryer
Before adding your sausages, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes. This helps to evaporate excess moisture and create a non-stick surface.
Use Oil or Cooking Spray
Coating the sausages or the basket with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray creates a barrier that prevents sticking. Use oils with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, avocado oil, or peanut oil. Avoid aerosol cooking sprays as they may contain additives that leave a residue.
Parchment Paper
Using parchment paper creates a barrier between the food and the basket, preventing sticking. Cut the parchment paper to size and line the basket before adding the sausages.
Avoid Overcrowding
Make sure to leave enough space between the sausages to allow for even cooking and proper air circulation. Depending on the size and capacity of your air fryer, you may need to cook the sausages in batches.
Flip or Shake the Basket
During cooking, flip or gently shake the basket to prevent the sausages from sticking to the surface. You can use tongs or a spatula to flip the sausages or carefully shake the basket.
Clean the Basket Regularly
Properly cleaning your air fryer basket after each use is essential for maintaining its non-stick properties. Remove any food particles to prevent them from burning and adhering to the surface. Gently scrub the basket with a non-abrasive sponge or brush and mild dish soap. Rinse and dry it completely before using it again.
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How to store leftover sausage links
Storing leftover sausage links properly is important to prevent spoilage and ensure they remain safe to eat. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover sausage links:
Refrigerator Storage
Leftover cooked sausage links can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is important to place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Ensure the sausages are cooled to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to bacterial growth.
Freezer Storage
If you want to store leftover sausage links for a longer period, freezing is a good option. Place the sausages in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with freezer paper or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. You can also use vacuum-sealed bags or Ziploc bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label the package with the date and type of sausage, and store it at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Leftover sausage links can be safely frozen for up to 2-3 months, although the quality may start to deteriorate over time.
Reheating
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover sausage links, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator if they are frozen. You can then reheat them in a microwave, grill, pan, or even the air fryer until they are heated through. Ensure the sausages reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
Food Safety
Always practice good food safety hygiene when handling and storing leftover sausage links. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw or cooked sausage links. If you are unsure how long your leftover sausages have been stored in the refrigerator, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard them. Consuming spoiled sausages can lead to food poisoning, so it is important to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an unusual odor, discoloration, or sliminess, before eating.
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What to serve with air fryer sausage links
Yes, you can make breakfast sausage links in an air fryer. Here's a recipe for you:
Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage Links
Ingredients:
Sausage links (fresh or frozen)
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F–400°F.
- Place the sausage links on the air fryer tray or in the basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not touching.
- Cook for 8–12 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the sausages halfway through.
- If you're using frozen sausages, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.
- The sausages are done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F, or they are browned and no longer pink inside.
Now, for some ideas on what to serve with your air fryer sausage links:
Classic Breakfast Options:
- Scrambled or fried eggs
- Omelet with bell peppers and onions
- Crispy bacon
- Toast or English muffins
- Hash browns
- Pancakes
Fresh and Fruity:
- Fresh fruit or fruit salad
- Glass of orange juice
Hearty and Satisfying:
- Grits
- Sausage gravy and biscuits
- Cinnamon toast
- Oatmeal
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Frequently asked questions
Set your air fryer to between 375 °F and 400 °F.
Depending on the number of sausages you are cooking, cook them for 8-12 minutes.
Yes, preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes.