Cooking sausages in an air fryer is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a quick meal. The air fryer allows sausages to cook evenly and crisply, all without the mess of frying or the long baking times of an oven. With minimal preparation, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re craving breakfast sausages, Italian flavors, or something spicy, these 8 top air fryer sausage recipes are sure to hit the spot.
1. Classic Breakfast Sausages
Start your day right with a quick and easy batch of breakfast sausages cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Whether you’re using pre-cooked or fresh sausages, this method works perfectly for both.
- How to Make It: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F, place the breakfast sausages in a single layer in the basket, and cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip halfway through for even browning.
- Tip: Serve with scrambled eggs and toast for a complete breakfast.
2. Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dinner, air fryer Italian sausages are a must-try. The sausages develop a crispy exterior while staying juicy inside. Pairing them with caramelized peppers and onions is a classic way to enjoy them.
- How to Make It: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Slice bell peppers and onions and toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the sausages in the air fryer basket alongside the veggies. Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Tip: Serve on a toasted hoagie roll for an Italian sausage sandwich.
3. Spicy Chorizo Sausages
For those who love a bit of spice, air frying chorizo sausages is a fantastic option. The air fryer crisps up the outside of the sausages while the inside stays rich and flavorful.
- How to Make It: Set your air fryer to 370°F and place the chorizo sausages in the basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Tip: Slice the chorizo and serve in tacos with fresh salsa and avocado.
4. Chicken Sausages with Veggies
For a lighter but equally delicious option, try chicken sausages in the air fryer. These sausages are lower in fat than traditional pork, but the air fryer ensures they come out juicy and full of flavor.
- How to Make It: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Place chicken sausages in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes. For a full meal, you can add sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes to the basket for a one-pot meal.
- Tip: Brush the sausages with a bit of teriyaki sauce or honey mustard for extra flavor.
5. Bratwurst with Sauerkraut
Bratwursts are a classic sausage that cooks beautifully in an air fryer. Pair them with tangy sauerkraut for an easy weeknight meal or game day snack.
- How to Make It: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F and cook the bratwursts for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through. Heat the sauerkraut on the stovetop and serve alongside the bratwursts.
- Tip: Serve in a bun with mustard and sauerkraut for an authentic German experience.
6. Andouille Sausage with Cajun Seasoning
Andouille sausage, known for its rich, smoky flavor, is often used in Cajun cooking. But it’s just as delicious on its own when cooked in the air fryer. This recipe is perfect for when you want something with bold flavors.
- How to Make It: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F and cook the andouille sausage for 8-10 minutes. You can slice the sausages before cooking if you want to add them to a rice or pasta dish.
- Tip: Serve with a side of Cajun-seasoned fries or rice.
7. Vegetarian Sausages
For those following a plant-based diet, air frying vegetarian sausages is a quick and healthy way to enjoy a protein-packed meal. Whether you’re using tofu-based or veggie-packed sausages, the air fryer gives them a nice, crispy texture.
- How to Make It: Set the air fryer to 360°F and cook vegetarian sausages for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Tip: Pair with a salad or use in a veggie sausage sandwich with avocado and hummus.
8. Sausage Patties for Burgers
Sausage patties are not just for breakfast! These patties, when cooked in the air fryer, make a great base for burgers or sausage sandwiches. They come out crispy on the outside and juicy inside, perfect for layering with your favorite toppings.
- How to Make It: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place the sausage patties in the basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Tip: Top with cheese, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted bun for a sausage burger.
Tips for Cooking Sausages in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the sausages to ensure even cooking.
- Flip for Even Browning: Turn the sausages halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get crispy.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Make sure the sausages are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper airflow and even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For raw sausages, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for pork sausages or 165°F for chicken or turkey sausages.
- Check Doneness: If you’re cooking thicker sausages like bratwursts or Italian sausages, you may need to extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
Why Cook Sausages in an Air Fryer?
Cooking sausages in an air fryer is not only convenient but also results in a healthier meal. The excess fat drips away, leaving you with crisp, juicy sausages without the mess of traditional frying. Plus, the air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air ensures that the sausages cook evenly in a fraction of the time it would take to grill or bake them.
Whether you’re preparing a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these air fryer sausage recipes will save you time and effort while delivering delicious results. Sausages are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes, making them a go-to option for busy weekdays or weekend feasts.
Conclusion
These 8 top air fryer sausage recipes are perfect for quick meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the air fryer delivers perfectly cooked sausages every time. Try experimenting with different types of sausages, seasonings, and sides to make these recipes your own.
Enjoy the convenience and flavor of cooking sausage in an air fryer, and don’t hesitate to try out new sausage varieties to keep your meals exciting!
