Air-Fryer Sausages: How Long Do You Fry?

Cooking sausages in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get perfectly browned and crispy sausages. Depending on the thickness of the sausages, they can be cooked in an air fryer in as little as 8-12 minutes. For thinner sausages, like breakfast sausages, they will take about 8-10 minutes, while thicker sausages like bratwurst or Italian sausage will take 9-12 minutes. The ideal temperature for cooking sausages in an air fryer is around 400°F, although some recipes suggest lower temperatures of 370°F or 180°C.

Temperature and timing for cooking sausages in an air fryer

The ideal temperature for cooking sausages in an air fryer is 400°F (204°C or 477 Kelvin). This will ensure that the sausages develop a nice, crispy brown crust on the outside and will prevent them from drying out.

The timing for cooking sausages in an air fryer depends on the type and thickness of the sausages. For thinner sausages, such as breakfast sausages, it will take around 8-10 minutes to cook them until they are crisp on the outside and fully cooked inside. For thicker sausages like bratwurst or Italian sausage, the cooking time will be slightly longer, around 9-12 minutes.

It is important to ensure that the sausages are cooked thoroughly before serving. Cut into one of the sausages to check that it is no longer pink inside. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C or 75°C) to ensure that the sausages are cooked properly.

When arranging the sausages in the air fryer, make sure they are in a single layer with no overlapping. This will allow the hot air to circulate completely around the sausages and ensure even cooking.

Some recipes suggest poking holes in the sausages before cooking to release excess fat, while others advise against it to prevent the sausages from drying out. If you are concerned about the sausages exploding, you can use a toothpick or a sharp knife to poke a few holes in the sausages before cooking.

Additionally, you can line the bottom of the air fryer basket with foil or parchment paper to catch any grease and drippings, making cleanup easier.

By following these temperature and timing guidelines, you can cook juicy and perfectly browned sausages in your air fryer with minimal effort.

How to prepare sausages before putting them in the air fryer

Preparing sausages for the air fryer is simple and only takes a few minutes.

Firstly, if your sausages are frozen, you will need to defrost them. For thicker sausages, like Bratwurst, you can cook them straight from frozen. However, for thinner breakfast sausages, it is best to defrost them first.

Next, you will need to prepare your air fryer. Line the bottom of the air fryer basket with foil to capture any grease. Some recipes also suggest adding a piece of parchment paper to the bottom of the air fryer to make cleaning easier and reduce any smoking.

Now, it is time to prepare the sausages. If you are using fresh or thawed sausages, use a paring knife or a fork to poke holes in the casings. This allows the fat to escape, but it is a step that some people choose to skip, as they believe it dries the sausages out. If you are cooking thicker sausages, you may want to pierce the skin a few times with a sharp knife to help release more fat.

Arrange the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping or touching, so the air can circulate and cook the sausages evenly.

Finally, set your air fryer to the desired temperature and time, and you are ready to start cooking!

How to serve air-fried sausages

So, you've cooked your sausages in the air fryer and they're beautifully browned and juicy. Now it's time to serve them!

The great thing about air-fried sausages is that they're so versatile. You can serve them as a simple, tasty side dish, or make them the star of the meal. If you're serving them as a side, a classic option is to go for breakfast or brunch, pairing the sausages with eggs, bacon, and toast. You could also add them to a full English breakfast, with baked beans, hash browns, and grilled tomatoes.

If you want to make the sausages the main event, there are plenty of options. One popular choice is to serve them in a bun, with some mustard and sauerkraut or sautéed peppers, onions, and garlic. You could also create a heartier meal by pairing the sausages with roasted peppers and onions, potatoes, or pasta with a creamy sauce. For a lighter option, slice the sausages and serve them on a bed of salad leaves, with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

If you're looking for something a little different, why not try a sausage-based dish like bangers and mash, toad-in-the-hole, or a sausage casserole? Or, if you're feeling creative, experiment with different flavours and ingredients to come up with your own signature sausage dish!

The benefits of cooking sausages in an air fryer

Air fryers are a convenient and effective way to cook sausages, offering several benefits over traditional stovetop or oven methods. Here are some advantages of using an air fryer to cook sausages:

Quick and Easy:

Air fryers significantly reduce cooking time compared to other methods. Depending on the thickness of the sausages, you can have perfectly cooked sausages in as little as 8 to 15 minutes. This makes air fryers ideal for quick meals or when you're short on time.

Hands-Off Cooking:

One of the biggest advantages of air fryers is that they require minimal attention during cooking. Unlike stovetop cooking, where you need to constantly monitor and flip the sausages, air fryers allow you to cook sausages hands-free. Simply place the sausages in the air fryer, set the temperature and timer, and let the air fryer do the work.

Crispy and Juicy Results:

Air fryers are renowned for producing sausages with a beautiful, crispy exterior while remaining juicy and succulent on the inside. The high heat of the air fryer crisps the skin of the sausages, creating a desirable texture. At the same time, the sausages remain moist and flavourful, ensuring a delicious eating experience.

No Added Oil Needed:

When cooking sausages in an air fryer, there is no need to add extra oil. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, reducing the need for additional fats or oils. This not only makes the cooking process healthier but also helps to minimise the mess and grease splatter associated with traditional frying methods.

Even Cooking:

Air fryers provide even and consistent cooking, ensuring that your sausages are cooked through without any raw spots. The air circulates around the sausages, cooking them evenly on all sides. This eliminates the need for constant flipping and reduces the chances of overcooking or undercooking.

Versatility:

Air fryers are incredibly versatile and can handle various types of sausages. Whether you prefer Italian sausages, bratwursts, breakfast sausages, or any other variety, the air fryer will deliver excellent results. Additionally, air fryers can cook frozen or thawed sausages, and you can even cook sausages straight from frozen without defrosting.

In summary, cooking sausages in an air fryer offers numerous benefits, including speed, convenience, hands-off cooking, delicious results, and versatility. It's a great way to enjoy perfectly cooked sausages with minimal effort and maximum flavour.

How to clean up after cooking sausages in an air fryer

Cooking sausages in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a tasty meal. But what about the cleanup? Here are some detailed instructions on how to clean up after cooking sausages in your air fryer:

Firstly, it is important to unplug the air fryer and let it cool down before attempting any cleaning. Do not submerge the main unit in water as it contains electrical components.

Once the air fryer has cooled, remove the inner basket and pan. These can usually be washed with warm, soapy water. For stubborn grease or food residue, you can soak these parts in hot, soapy water before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge. Alternatively, some brands have baskets and pans that are dishwasher-safe, so check your manufacturer's instructions.

Next, wipe out the inside of the machine, including the bottom chamber. This area can collect crumbs, oil residue, and meat drippings, so it is important to keep it clean. Use a damp paper towel or clean dish towel to wipe it out, and then allow it to air dry.

After that, you can wipe down the heating element, but only once the machine has cooled completely. You may need to tip or invert the machine for easier access.

Finally, dry all the parts completely and then reassemble the air fryer.

In terms of how often to clean your air fryer, it is recommended to wash the basket, tray, and pan after each use, either by hand or in the dishwasher (if safe to do so). You should also quickly wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and a bit of dish soap. After every few uses, you can do a more thorough cleaning of the exterior and heating coil.

Some additional tips for keeping your air fryer clean include:

• Using parchment paper or aluminium foil on the bottom of the air fryer to catch drippings and make cleanup easier (but be careful not to block airflow)
• Avoiding the use of metal utensils, abrasive sponges, or steel wire brushes as these can damage the non-stick coating
• Cleaning hard-to-reach crevices with a wooden skewer, toothpick, or old toothbrush to prevent food buildup, which can cause smoking and odours

Frequently asked questions