If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and hassle-free way to prepare sausages, cooking them in an air fryer is a game-changer! Not only is it faster than traditional methods, but it also gives you perfectly cooked, juicy sausages with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking breakfast sausages, Italian sausages, or even bratwursts, the air fryer is the perfect tool for the job.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 10 best ways to cook sausage in an air fryer, with tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time. Plus, we’ll give you some flavor ideas to spice up your sausage recipes. Let’s dive in!
Why Use an Air Fryer for Sausages?
Before we get into the cooking methods, let’s discuss why the air fryer is such a great option for sausages. When you cook sausages in an air fryer, you:
- Save Time: Cooking sausages in an air fryer is typically faster than other methods like pan-frying or baking.
- Even Cooking: The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food evenly, ensuring that your sausages are thoroughly cooked without burning.
- Healthier Results: Since the air fryer requires little to no oil, the sausages retain less fat compared to traditional frying.
- Easy Cleanup: You don’t have to deal with greasy pans or the mess that comes from oil splatters on your stovetop.
1. Traditional Pork Sausage in the Air Fryer
If you’re a fan of traditional pork sausage, this is the method for you. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F, and place the sausages in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through. This ensures an even crisp on all sides while keeping the inside juicy. Tip: For added flavor, poke a few holes in the sausages before cooking to allow any excess fat to drain away.
2. Breakfast Sausages in the Air Fryer
Breakfast sausage links or patties cook perfectly in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 370°F, and cook for 8-10 minutes. Smaller sausage links will take less time, while larger patties may need the full 10 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even browning. Enjoy these sausages alongside pancakes, eggs, or toast.
3. Italian Sausage in the Air Fryer
Italian sausages are known for their delicious mix of herbs and spices, and air frying them enhances their flavor. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F, and cook the sausages for 12-14 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Tip: Add some sliced bell peppers and onions to the air fryer basket for a classic Italian sausage and peppers meal. The vegetables will caramelize nicely while the sausage cooks.
4. Bratwurst in the Air Fryer
Bratwursts, whether fresh or pre-cooked, are another great sausage option for the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 370°F, and cook the bratwursts for 12-15 minutes. If they’re fresh, make sure to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F. If you want a crispier skin, leave them in for an extra minute or two. Serve with mustard and sauerkraut for a traditional German-inspired meal.
5. Chicken Sausage in the Air Fryer
Chicken sausages are a healthier alternative to pork sausages, and they cook wonderfully in the air fryer. Preheat to 360°F, and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Chicken sausages are often pre-cooked, so you’re just reheating and crisping the outside. Be sure to check the packaging if you’re not sure whether the sausages are raw or fully cooked.
6. Smoked Sausage in the Air Fryer
Smoked sausages, like kielbasa, have a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior from the air fryer. Cook smoked sausage at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. If you’re cooking pre-sliced smoked sausage, reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes. Serve with roasted vegetables or in a sandwich with mustard and pickles.
7. Sausage Patties in the Air Fryer
Sausage patties, whether homemade or store-bought, can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Preheat to 375°F, and cook the patties for 8-10 minutes. Make sure to flip halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Sausage patties are perfect for breakfast sandwiches, or simply serve with eggs and toast for a complete meal.
8. Vegetarian Sausage in the Air Fryer
For those who prefer plant-based options, vegetarian sausages are also easy to cook in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 360°F, and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Most vegetarian sausages are pre-cooked, so you’re mainly looking to heat them through and give them a crispy exterior. Serve with your favorite vegetables or in a bun with your favorite condiments.
9. Chorizo Sausage in the Air Fryer
Spicy chorizo sausages add a kick to any meal, and they’re quick to cook in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F, and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. You can slice them beforehand if you want to add them to a taco or salad, or cook them whole for a spicier sausage sandwich. Serve with salsa or a spicy mayo for an extra flavor boost.
10. Andouille Sausage in the Air Fryer
Andouille sausage, known for its use in Cajun and Creole cooking, is smoky and spicy. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Andouille is often used in dishes like gumbo or jambalaya, but it’s just as delicious served on its own or sliced and added to pasta or rice dishes.
Air Fryer Tips for Sausage Success
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for best results. This ensures even cooking and prevents the sausage from sticking to the basket.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure the sausages have enough space around them for the hot air to circulate. If you’re cooking for a large group, you may need to cook in batches.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For raw sausages, use a meat thermometer to ensure they’ve reached an internal temperature of 160°F for pork, 165°F for chicken or turkey. This guarantees that they’re cooked through and safe to eat.
- Turn Halfway Through: For even cooking and browning on both sides, turn your sausages halfway through the cooking time.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While sausages are typically flavorful on their own, you can brush them with barbecue sauce, teriyaki glaze, or sprinkle them with your favorite spices before air frying for extra flavor.
FAQ: Cooking Sausage in an Air Fryer
Q: Can I cook frozen sausages in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen sausages in an air fryer. Simply increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes, and make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re cooked through.
Q: Should I poke holes in the sausages before air frying?
It’s not necessary, but some people prefer to poke a few holes to release excess fat. Be careful not to over-poke, as you want to retain some of the juices for a flavorful sausage.
Q: Can I cook multiple types of sausages at the same time?
Yes, but keep in mind that different types of sausages (pork, chicken, vegetarian) may have different cooking times. You can cook them together, but remove the faster-cooking sausages as needed.
Conclusion
Cooking sausage in an air fryer is one of the easiest and most efficient methods. Whether you’re making breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even plant-based sausages, the air fryer delivers crispy, juicy results every time. Follow the methods above, and you’ll have perfectly cooked sausages ready in minutes, with minimal cleanup. Try experimenting with different flavors, seasonings, and accompaniments to take your air-fried sausages to the next level!
Enjoy your deliciously cooked sausage in the air fryer, and don’t forget to share your favorite recipes with friends and family!
