Can I Cook Sausages in an Air Fryer

Can You Cook Sausages in an Air Fryer? A Complete Guide to Perfectly Cooked Sausages

Absolutely, you can cook sausages in an air fryer, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! I used to rely on the stovetop or grill for sausages, dealing with grease splatters and constant flipping. Then I tried the air fryer, and it’s now my go-to method for juicy, crispy sausages with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking breakfast links, Italian sausages, or bratwurst, the air fryer delivers consistent results in less time than traditional methods. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to get those perfect sausages every time.

Why Cook Sausages in an Air Fryer?

The air fryer is a fantastic tool for cooking sausages because it uses hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Unlike pan-frying, there’s no need for extra oil, and the fat drips away, making it a healthier option. Plus, it’s hands-off—you don’t have to stand over the stove turning sausages to avoid burning them. The air fryer also heats up faster than an oven, saving you time and energy, especially when you’re cooking for just one or two people.

Another perk? Cleanup is a breeze. The fat collects in the basket or tray below, so you’re not scrubbing grease off your stovetop. If you’re worried about mess, you can line the air fryer tray with parchment paper or a slice of bread to catch drippings, as suggested by Allrecipes. This method keeps your kitchen tidy and your sausages delicious.

What Types of Sausages Can You Cook?

One of the best things about air frying sausages is its versatility. You can cook virtually any type of sausage, including:

• Raw sausages: Pork, chicken, turkey, or beef sausages, like Italian, Cumberland, or bratwurst.
• Fully cooked sausages: Kielbasa, smoked sausages, or hot dogs.
• Frozen sausages: No need to thaw; just adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Breakfast sausages: Thin links or patties for a quick morning meal.
• Vegan or vegetarian sausages: These work well, though they may need a light spray of oil for crispiness.

The key is to adjust the cooking time based on the sausage’s size and whether it’s raw or pre-cooked. Thicker sausages like bratwurst take a bit longer, while thin breakfast links cook faster.

How to Cook Sausages in an Air Fryer: Step-by-Step

Here’s a foolproof method to cook sausages in your air fryer, based on my own experiments and tips from trusted sources like Good Food.

Ingredients

• Sausages of your choice (raw, cooked, or frozen)
• Optional: Olive oil spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking

Equipment

• Air fryer (any model works, but basket-style is common)
• Tongs for flipping
• Instant-read thermometer (optional but recommended for raw sausages)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the sausages crisp up evenly, though it’s not strictly necessary if you’re in a rush.
2. Prepare the Sausages: Place the sausages in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. This allows hot air to circulate for even cooking. Do not prick the sausages—this lets the juices escape, leaving them dry. If you’re worried about bursting, lower the temperature slightly (e.g., to 350°F) and cook a bit longer.
3. Cook the Sausages:
   • Raw sausages ( inches thick): Cook at 360°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for pork or beef, or 165°F for poultry, using a meat thermometer.
   • Thin breakfast sausages or chipolatas: Cook at 360°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Frozen sausages: Cook at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. If frozen together, cook for 2-3 minutes, separate them, then continue.
   • Fully cooked sausages: Cook at 360°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until heated through and crispy.
4. Check for Doneness: If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into one sausage to ensure it’s not pink inside. For extra crispiness, add 1-2 minutes at 400°F at the end.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the sausages rest for 1-2 minutes to lock in juices. Serve them in a bun, with mashed potatoes, or alongside sautéed peppers and onions.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Sausages

I’ve learned a few tricks to make sure my sausages come out just right:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: If you’re cooking for a crowd, work in batches. Overlapping sausages will cook unevenly and won’t get that crispy skin.
• Manage grease: Sausages release fat as they cook, which can cause smoke. Place a piece of parchment paper or a slice of bread under the basket to catch drippings. Alternatively, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the air fryer to prevent burning, as recommended by Taming Twins.
• Flip for even browning: While some air fryers cook evenly without flipping, I find turning the sausages halfway through ensures a uniform golden crust.
• Adjust for your air fryer: Models vary, so the first time you cook sausages, check them a minute or two early to avoid overcooking.

Common Questions About Air Frying Sausages

Can I cook frozen sausages in an air fryer? Yes, and it’s super convenient! No need to thaw—just cook at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Do I need to add oil? Usually, no. Sausages have enough fat to cook without sticking. If you’re using leaner sausages (like chicken or vegan), a light spray of olive oil can help with crispiness and prevent sticking.

Will sausages burst in the air fryer? Bursting is rare if you avoid pricking the sausages and cook at a moderate temperature (360°F). If you’re concerned, lower the temperature to 350°F and extend the cooking time slightly.

How do I clean the air fryer after cooking sausages? Let the basket cool, then soak it in hot soapy water for a few minutes. The non-stick coating makes cleanup easy. For stubborn grease, wipe the basket with a paper towel while it’s still warm, then wash as usual.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer sausages are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to enjoy them:

• Classic bangers and mash: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and onion gravy for a comforting dinner.
• Sausage rolls: Place sausages in crusty buns with sautéed peppers, onions, and a dollop of mustard or ketchup.
• Breakfast plate: Pair with scrambled eggs, toast, and grilled tomatoes for a full English breakfast.
• Pasta dishes: Slice Italian sausages and toss with pasta, marinara sauce, and parmesan for a quick weeknight meal.

Final Thoughts

Cooking sausages in an air fryer is not only possible but also one of the easiest and most effective ways to get that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy interior. It’s quick, mess-free, and works with any type of sausage you have on hand. After trying it, I’ve ditched my skillet for good—there’s no going back to greasy splatters and uneven cooking. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll be hooked too. What’s your favorite way to serve air fryer sausages? Let me know in the comments!