Air-Fryer Sausage: The Perfect Timing For A Quick Bite

Cooking sausages in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and mess-free option for a tasty meal. The air fryer is versatile and can cook various types of sausages, including Italian, chicken, turkey, and pork sausages, as well as different shapes like sausage links, coils, and patties. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the sausages, but generally, it takes around 10-15 minutes to cook sausages in an air fryer, with some thicker sausages taking up to 20 minutes. The air fryer is a convenient and hands-off method that delivers juicy, golden brown sausages with a crispy skin.

Cooking Sausages in an Air Fryer

Cooking time depends on sausage thickness

The cooking time for sausages in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the sausages. Thinner sausages, such as breakfast sausages, will take about 8 to 10 minutes to cook in an air fryer. On the other hand, thicker sausages like Italian sausages or brats will require a longer cooking time, typically ranging from 9 to 13 minutes.

For example, if you are cooking Italian sausages that are approximately 1.5 inches thick, it is recommended to air fry them for 12 to 13 minutes, flipping them halfway through. However, if you are using thinner sausages, you should reduce the cooking time accordingly. Similarly, if you prefer your sausages extra crispy, you can cook them at a higher temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway.

The cooking time will also depend on the weight of the sausages. A good rule of thumb is to allow about 12 minutes of cooking time per 450 grams (1 pound) of sausages. Additionally, the total cooking time can be influenced by the number of sausages you are cooking and how closely they are packed in the air fryer basket.

It is important to ensure that sausages are cooked thoroughly before serving. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach a minimum of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 to 75 degrees Celsius) to ensure they are cooked through and safe to eat.

Oil spray prevents sticking

When cooking sausages in an air fryer, it is essential to prevent them from sticking to the surface. While some air fryers come with non-stick inserts, you might need to take additional measures to prevent food from sticking. One effective method is to use oil spray on the air fryer basket or pan before adding the sausages.

Oil spray helps to create a barrier between the food and the cooking surface, reducing the likelihood of sticking. Avocado oil or olive oil spray are recommended options, as suggested by America's Test Kitchen. However, you can also fill a spray bottle with your preferred oil and use it to coat the air fryer basket or pan. This approach ensures that you control the amount and type of oil used, avoiding potential issues associated with commercial cooking sprays.

It is worth noting that some people report that the propellant in commercial oil sprays can remove the coating of the air fryer over time. Therefore, using a separate spray bottle filled with your chosen oil is a popular alternative. Additionally, you can apply oil directly to the sausages or use a paper towel to rub oil onto the air fryer surface.

When using oil spray, it is generally recommended to spray the air fryer basket or pan lightly. This light coating of oil helps create a non-stick surface without using excessive amounts of oil. It is also important to remember that the amount of oil needed may vary depending on the type of food being cooked. For instance, fatty meats may not require any additional oil at all.

Internal temperature should be 160°F minimum

When cooking sausages in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the internal temperature reaches a minimum of 160°F (71°C). This is the recommended temperature to avoid undercooking or overcooking the sausages. Using a food thermometer is a great way to accurately measure the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the centre of the sausage to get an accurate reading.

To achieve the desired internal temperature, cook the sausages in the air fryer for around 12 to 13 minutes at 400°F (200°C). It is important to flip the sausages halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the sausages. For thinner sausages, such as breakfast sausages, reduce the cooking time to 8 to 10 minutes. For thicker sausages like bratwurst or Italian sausages, increase the cooking time to 9 to 12 minutes.

It is crucial to ensure that the sausages are cooked thoroughly and are not pink in the centre. By reaching an internal temperature of 160°F, you can be confident that the sausages are safe to consume and properly cooked. This temperature applies regardless of the type of sausage you are cooking, whether it is pork, chicken, turkey, or lamb.

Additionally, when cooking sausages in an air fryer, it is recommended to pierce the sausages with a fork or paring knife a few times before placing them in the air fryer. This helps to release steam and prevent the sausages from bursting during the cooking process.

Sausages can be cooked from frozen

First, preheat your air fryer. Some models do not require preheating, so check your air fryer instructions. If your sausages are frozen together, place them in the air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes before separating them. This will help to defrost them before cooking.

Next, place the frozen sausages in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. This helps to ensure even cooking. You can cook any kind of sausage in the air fryer, from thin breakfast sausages to thicker Italian or Bratwurst sausages. Adjust the temperature depending on the thickness of your sausages: thinner sausages should be cooked at a higher temperature, and thicker sausages at a lower temperature. For example, you could cook thinner sausages at 390°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, and thicker sausages at 360°F (180°C) for 9-12 minutes.

Check that your sausages are cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving. If your sausages are not quite ready, continue cooking and check again after a few minutes.

Finally, serve your sausages with your favourite sauces and sides. Enjoy!

Prick sausages to prevent bursting

Cooking sausages in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get juicy, golden brown Italian sausages. However, cooking sausages at high temperatures can cause the casings to burst. To prevent this, some people recommend pricking the sausages with a fork or a sharp knife before placing them in the air fryer. This allows the fat to drain out, reducing the risk of bursting and resulting in a less greasy sausage.

On the other hand, some people argue against pricking sausages as it can cause the juices to drain out, making the sausages drier and less tasty. Additionally, releasing too much fat into the air fryer can cause it to smoke during cooking.

If you choose to prick your sausages, it is recommended to do so 4-5 times with a sharp knife or fork. This technique is especially useful for thicker sausages, which are more prone to bursting. However, keep in mind that pricked sausages may not be as juicy or flavourful as those left intact.

For those who prefer their sausages juicy and flavourful, an alternative method is to cook the sausages over lower heat. This reduces the risk of bursting without the need for pricking. Additionally, ensuring that the sausages are in a single layer in the air fryer basket allows for even cooking and can help prevent bursting.

Ultimately, the decision to prick or not to prick sausages before air frying is a matter of personal preference. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and you may need to try both to determine which works best for your taste and cooking preferences.

Frequently asked questions