Air-Fryer Sausage: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Cooking sausages in an air fryer is a quick, hands-free, and easy method to achieve juicy sausages with a crispy, golden-brown exterior. It is also a healthier option, as the excess fat drains through the air fryer pan. The cooking time varies depending on the type of sausage and the size of your air fryer, but generally, it takes around 10-15 minutes to cook sausages in an air fryer.

Characteristics and Values Table for Cooking Sausages in an Air Fryer

Temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for cooking sausages in an air fryer depend on the type of sausages being cooked and the desired level of doneness.

For thinner sausages, like breakfast sausages or hot dogs, cook at a temperature of 400°F for 8-10 minutes. This will result in a crispy brown crust on the outside, while the inside remains juicy.

For regular or thicker sausages, the cooking time may be extended to 12-15 minutes. The temperature can be adjusted based on preference, with some sources recommending 180°C and others suggesting 200°C for a crispier sausage.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sausages, as well as the specific model and size of the air fryer being used. Therefore, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the sausages during the cooking process and adjust the timing and temperature as needed.

For uncooked sausages, it is important to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 75°C or 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked. This can be checked using a meat thermometer.

How to prepare sausages before air frying

Preparing sausages before air frying is a quick and easy process. First, ensure you have an air fryer and the desired number of sausages. The size of your air fryer will determine how many sausages you can cook at once, but a typical air fryer should fit enough sausages to feed a family of four.

Next, you will need to decide whether to cook your sausages whole or cut them into smaller pieces. If cooking sausage links, simply place them on the trays or in the basket of the air fryer. If cooking sausages with no links, cut them into the desired size with a sharp knife. Place the sausages in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not packed too tightly together to allow heat to circulate and cook the sausages evenly. You can line the bottom of the air fryer with parchment paper to catch any grease.

You may also choose to pierce the sausages a few times with a sharp knife or make small holes with a toothpick. This step is optional but will help release more fat and create a crispier texture.

Finally, set your air fryer to the desired temperature and cooking time, typically between 180°C and 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your sausages. For thinner sausages, such as breakfast sausages, a lower temperature and shorter cooking time may be necessary to prevent drying out. Always ensure the sausages are fully cooked through before serving, and check that the internal temperature has reached 75°C or 160°F for uncooked sausages.

How to arrange sausages in the air fryer

When arranging sausages in an air fryer, it is important to ensure they are not packed in too tightly. This allows the heat to circulate evenly and cook the sausages properly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you should be able to fit enough sausages to feed a family of four.

When placing the sausages in the air fryer, give them a little room to ensure they are not crowded. You don't need to add any oil, as there is already plenty of fat in the sausages. In fact, it is better if the fat drains through the air fryer pan instead of sitting in it, as this will make the sausages crispier.

If you are cooking sausage links, you can fit as many as your air fryer can fit in a single layer. For oven models with trays, this is typically around 8-10 sausages, while basket models may fit slightly fewer.

For thinner sausages, such as breakfast sausages, you will only need about 8-10 minutes to cook them through. Regular thick sausages will take longer, around 15 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius.

It is recommended to turn the sausages halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

How to serve air-fried sausages

Air fryers are a great way to cook sausages, and they come out crispy and juicy. There are a few ways to serve air-fried sausages, depending on your preference.

Firstly, you can serve them as they are, with a side of your choice. This could be a great option for a quick and easy dinner. You can also serve them with some sautéed peppers, onions, and garlic for a tasty and simple meal.

If you're feeling something more classic, you could serve the sausages in a bun with some mustard and kraut. You could also add some homemade red cabbage for an extra special touch.

For breakfast, you could serve air-fried sausages with bacon and eggs, or as part of a full English breakfast. You could also try air-frying some sausage patties for a quick and easy breakfast option.

Finally, you could get creative and serve the sausages over pasta or in a sausage and pepper dish. This is a great way to switch up your usual pasta night and try something new.

No matter which way you choose to serve them, air-fried sausages are a delicious and convenient option that the whole family will enjoy.

Advantages of cooking sausages in an air fryer

There are several advantages to cooking sausages in an air fryer. Firstly, it is a quick and easy method that requires minimal preparation and cooking time. Unlike traditional cooking methods such as grilling or stovetop cooking, there is no need for pre-heating or constant attention during cooking. This frees up time and mental capacity to focus on other aspects of the meal.

Another advantage is the even cooking and browning that the air fryer achieves. The sausages emerge with a crispy, golden brown exterior and a juicy, succulent centre. This is due to the air fryer's ability to cook the sausages evenly all the way around without the need for flipping or monitoring. The result is a higher-quality sausage compared to other cooking methods, with a more appealing texture and taste.

Additionally, cooking sausages in an air fryer is a hands-free and low-maintenance process. Once the sausages are placed in the air fryer, there is no need for manual intervention, allowing for multitasking while cooking. This makes it a convenient option, especially when preparing more complex meals with multiple components.

Furthermore, the air fryer contains the mess within the appliance itself. Unlike stovetop cooking, there is no grease splatter on the stove or countertop, making clean-up easier and reducing the risk of grease-related fires. The fat drains through the air fryer pan, resulting in tastier and crispier sausages.

Lastly, the air fryer is a versatile appliance that can cook various types of sausages, including Italian sausages, breakfast sausages, and thicker pork sausages. It can also accommodate different cooking preferences, as some people prefer to pierce the sausages to release more fat, while others opt for a lower heat setting to avoid bursting.

Frequently asked questions