Air Fryer Sausage Patties: Quick, Crispy Breakfast

Air fryers are a convenient and quick way to cook sausage patties, with most sources suggesting a cooking time of around 8-10 minutes for fresh patties and 10-15 minutes for frozen ones. The air fryer method is also said to reduce the mess and grease splatter that comes with cooking on a stovetop, as well as being a healthier option.

Preheat the air fryer to 390-400°F

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It ensures that your sausage patties cook evenly and efficiently. Here are some detailed instructions on how to preheat your air fryer to the ideal temperature range of 390-400°F (200°C).

First, make sure your air fryer is plugged in and turned on. Then, adjust the temperature dial or settings to reach the desired temperature. Most air fryers will have a temperature display that will help you gauge when it has reached the right temperature.

The preheating time will vary depending on the model of your air fryer, but on average, it should take around 3 minutes to reach 400°F. You can also test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water into the basket. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, your air fryer is ready.

It is important to note that not all air fryers have a preheat setting, so you may need to give it some time to heat up before adding your sausage patties. This is a good opportunity to prepare the patties by shaping them and seasoning them, if you haven't already.

Once your air fryer has reached the desired temperature, you can lightly grease the inside of the basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This step is optional but recommended, especially if you are cooking other foods like hash browns or eggs that may stick to the surface.

Now that your air fryer is preheated and ready, you can arrange your sausage patties in a single layer in the basket, taking care not to overcrowd them. This ensures even cooking and that golden, crispy texture we all love.

By preheating your air fryer to the correct temperature, you are setting your sausage patties up for success. This step may seem simple, but it is crucial to achieving that perfect cook on your breakfast sausage!

Cook for 5 minutes

Cooking sausage patties in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a tasty breakfast with minimal mess. The cooking time will depend on whether you are using fresh or frozen patties, and whether you want to preheat your air fryer or not.

If you are using fresh patties, you can choose to preheat your air fryer to between 390 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are cooking from frozen, you do not need to preheat the air fryer.

Once your air fryer is up to temperature, arrange your patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. For fresh patties, cook for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for a further 3 minutes. For frozen patties, cook for 4 minutes, flip, and then cook for another 4 minutes.

Your patties are cooked when they are a nice golden brown colour and have an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70-71 degrees Celsius). Use a meat thermometer to check.

Once cooked, remove the patties from the air fryer and leave them to rest for a couple of minutes. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tasty.

Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes

Flipping your sausage patties is an essential step in the cooking process. Not only does it ensure even cooking, but it also helps to achieve that desired golden brown colour on both sides. Depending on the air fryer you have and the number of patties you're cooking, the flipping process may vary slightly.

For most air fryers, you'll want to cook the patties for about 5 minutes on the first side. Then, using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip each patty over. Be cautious as the air fryer basket will be hot. It's important to ensure that the patties don't overlap after flipping, maintaining a single layer for even cooking.

After flipping, the patties will need an additional 3-4 minutes of cooking time. Keep an eye on them during this final stage, as you don't want to overcook or burn your sausages. The patties are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check, as this will ensure your patties are cooked thoroughly and safely.

If you're aiming for a crispy texture, you can also spray the patties with a non-stick cooking spray before placing them in the air fryer. This will give them a slightly crispier crust. Additionally, consider brushing the patties with maple syrup or BBQ sauce a few minutes before they're done for an extra burst of flavour.

Check the internal temperature is 160°F

Checking the internal temperature of your sausage patties is crucial to ensure they are cooked thoroughly and safely. Using a meat thermometer, you want to see a reading of at least 160°F (70°C). This temperature indicates that the patties are fully cooked and safe to consume.

To measure the internal temperature accurately, insert the thermometer into the centre of one of the patties. It is best to choose a patty that is representative of the whole batch, not too thin or too thick. Ensure the thermometer is inserted deep enough to get an accurate reading.

If the temperature has not yet reached 160°F, continue cooking the patties in the air fryer in short intervals, checking the temperature each time until the desired temperature is reached. This will prevent overcooking or burning the outside of the patties.

Once the sausage patties have reached the desired internal temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavourful.

Checking the internal temperature of your sausage patties is a simple but essential step to guarantee a delicious and safely cooked meal.

Let the patties rest for a couple of minutes

So, you've cooked your sausage patties in the air fryer, and they're looking and smelling delicious. But before you tuck in, it's important to let the patties rest for a couple of minutes. This is a crucial step that will ensure your sausage patties are juicy and tasty.

When you remove the patties from the air fryer, transfer them to a plate or a paper towel-lined plate. This is an important step as it allows any excess grease or fat to drip off. By letting the patties rest, you give the juices a chance to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and full of flavour. This is the secret to juicy, mouth-watering sausage patties.

Depending on the recipe, you may want to baste the patties with maple syrup or your favourite BBQ sauce before serving. This will add a touch of sweetness or savouriness to your patties.

While your patties are resting, it's a great time to prepare the rest of your meal. Sausage patties go well with eggs, toast, waffles, fruit, or yogurt for a hearty breakfast. Or, if you're feeling indulgent, why not make a breakfast sandwich by placing the patties on an English muffin with some cheese and a slice of tomato?

Remember, the resting time is important not only for flavour but also for food safety. By allowing the patties to rest, you give them time to reach the optimal temperature for consumption. So, be patient, let your sausage patties rest, and then enjoy your delicious, juicy, and safely cooked meal!

Frequently asked questions