Air Fryer Sausages The Ultimate Guide
Chicken Sausages
One popular choice for air frying is chicken sausages.
These sausages are typically leaner and lower in fat compared to other options.
They can be found in a variety of flavours such as Italian, spicy jalapeno, or sun-dried tomato.
Chicken sausages cook well in an air fryer and the result is a juicy and tasty sausage.
This site uses affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. If you do buy, then thank you! It really does help run this free resource.
Pork Sausages
Pork sausages are another option that works well with air frying.
They tend to have a richer flavour due to the higher fat content. Richmond sausages are my favourite to air fry.
When cooked pork sausages develop a crispy exterior while maintaining their succulent interior.
Vegetarian Sausages
For those following a vegetarian or plant-based diet, there are also several sausage alternatives available.
These vegetarian options often contain ingredients like tofu, tempeh, or Quorn.
When selecting vegetarian sausages for air frying, look for ones that have a good texture.
Ultimately, the best type of sausage will depend on your personal preferences and dietary choices.
Cooking Sausages In The Air Fryer
Here is a step-by-step guide:
Start by preheating your air fryer. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly cook the sausages and ensures they have a nice crispy exterior.
Set the temperature to 180C / 360F and preheat it for 5 minutes.
Once preheated, take your sausages and prick them with a fork. This will stop them from bursting and any excess oil will drip out.
Arrange them in a single layer in the basket or tray. Avoid overcrowding them, as this can prevent proper airflow and result in uneven cooking.
How long to cook sausages in air fryer?
For standard-sized sausages, a cooking time of around 12-15 minutes at 180C /360F should be sufficient.
Higher temperatures will crisp the outside and not cook the inside of the sausage.
However, thicker or larger sausages may require slightly longer cooking times.
Also, be mindful that all brands of air fryers cook differently so you may need to adjust the timing.
After the recommended cooking time has elapsed, check if your sausages are fully cooked by cutting into one of them with a knife.
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for pork sausages or 165°F (74°C) for poultry-based ones.
If your sausages are not yet fully cooked, you can continue cooking them for a few more minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Once your sausages are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to be redistributed.
This instant-read thermometer features a foldable long probe that makes it easy to check the internal temperature of meats without getting too close to the heat. The backlight display ensures you can read temperatures clearly, even in low light. Perfect for grilling, roasting, or air frying, this digital meat thermometer is a must-have tool for any cook.
Air Fryer Sausage Timings Chart
Type of Sausage | Air Fryer Temperature | Air Fryer Time (Minutes) |
---|---|---|
Pork Sausages | 180C / 360F | 12-15 minutes |
Chicken Sausages | 180C / 360F | 12-15 minutes |
Beef Sausages | 180C / 360F | 12-15 minutes |
Turkey Sausages | 180C / 360F | 12-15 minutes |
Vegetarian/Vegan | 180C / 360F | 12-15 minutes |
Polish Sausage | 180C / 360F | 10-12 minutes |
Frankfurters | 180C / 360F | 8-10 minutes |
Italian Sausage | 180C / 360F | 12-15 minutes |
Tips For Perfectly Cooked Air Fryer Sausages
When it comes to cooking sausage, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve perfectly cooked results every time.
- For even browning and to avoid any burnt spots, be sure to turn the sausages during the cooking process. This will help them cook evenly on all sides.
- Allow enough room between the sausages for the air to circulate evenly.
- Prick the sausages with a fork to stop them exploding in the air fryer.
- Using a meat thermometer is crucial for checking the internal temperature of your sausages. It will ensure they are cooked thoroughly and have reached a safe temperature for eating.
- The recommended internal temperature for cooked sausages is typically around 160°F (71°C).
More Air Fryer Recipes
How To Make Authentic Air Fryer Polish Food In Minutes
Master Crispy Bacon Easily In The Air Fryer
How Do You Cook Frozen Sausages In An Air Fryer?
Cooking sausages directly from frozen can be convenient and time-saving.
To start, preheat your air fryer to a higher temperature of 200C/400F.
Next, place the frozen sausages in a single layer in the basket.
Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.
If you have a large batch of sausages, it may be necessary to cook them in multiple batches.
Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness and type of sausages you are using.
As a general guideline, air fry at 180C / 360F for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking.
How To Tell When Sausages Are Done
Once cooked check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
If the sausages are cooked the temperature will have reached 68–74°C / 155–165°F.
Air Fryer Vegetarian Sausages
Choosing Vegetarian Sausages
When it comes to choosing vegetarian sausages for air frying, there are a few things to consider.
First and foremost, check the ingredients list to ensure that the sausages are made from high-quality plant-based ingredients.
Look for options that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and excessive sodium.
Opt for sausages that are made from whole foods like grains, legumes, and vegetables, as they tend to provide a better texture and flavour.
It’s also important to consider the type of casing used for the sausages.
Some vegetarian sausages come with a natural casing made from plant-based materials, while others may have a synthetic casing.
Natural casings tend to offer a more authentic sausage experience, but synthetic casings can also provide a satisfactory result.
Lastly, take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences you may have.
There are a wide variety of vegetarian sausages available in the market today, catering to different dietary needs.
Whether you prefer gluten-free, soy-free, or nut-free options, there is a vegetarian sausage out there for you.
How To Air Fry Vegetarian Sausages
To achieve that perfect crispy texture when air frying vegetarian sausages, it’s important to follow the right techniques.
Here are some tips to help you master the art of air frying:
1. Preheat your air fryer: Preheating your air fryer is essential to ensure even cooking and crispy results. Set the temperature to 180C / 360F and allow it to preheat for a few minutes before adding the sausages.
2. Arrange sausages in a single layer: To ensure that the sausages cook evenly, arrange them in a single layer in the basket. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy outcome.
3. Turn halfway through cooking: To achieve an evenly crispy exterior, turn the sausages halfway through the cooking process. This allows both sides to brown and crisp up, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
4. Monitor cooking time: Different brands and types of vegetarian sausages may require varying cooking times. It’s important to monitor the sausages closely to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer as a starting point, and adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of crispiness.
Storing, Freezing And Reheating Cooked Air Fryer Sausages
Storing
Allow the cooked sausages to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to sogginess.
Store cooked sausages in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator.
Make sure the sausages are completely covered or sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odours from other foods.
Cooked sausages can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you don’t plan to eat them within this time frame, consider freezing them.
Keep your food fresh and organised with the Plastic Airtight Food Storage Containers! This pack of 18 features a vibrant blue design and is perfect for storing everything from snacks to leftovers. Each container is leakproof and airtight, ensuring your food stays fresher for longer while preventing spills and messes.
Freezing
To store sausages for an extended period, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container with the date.
Cooked sausages can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
To reheat cooked sausages from the refrigerator:
Preheat your air fryer to 180C / 360F.
Once preheated, place the sausages in the basket.
Do not overlap and air fry until heated through approximately 3-4 minutes.
To reheat cooked sausages from the Freezer:
Preheat your air fryer to 200C/400F.
Once preheated, place the sausages in the basket.
Do not overlap and air fry until heated through approximately 6-7minutes.
Be cautious not to overcook, as this can lead to dryness.