The Ultimate Guide to Air Frying Sausage

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of air frying different types of sausages, providing you with the necessary times and temperatures to ensure they’re cooked to perfection. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned air fryer enthusiast, you’ll find valuable insights to enhance your cooking experience.

Benefits of Air Frying Sausage

Air frying sausage comes with several benefits. It’s generally quicker than oven baking and produces a deliciously even outer crisp. It also spares you from having to deal with splattering oil, a common issue when frying sausages in a pan. Plus, the reduced oil content is better for your health without compromising on flavor or texture.

Types of Sausage and How to Air Fry Them

Breakfast Sausage

Breakfast sausages are often smaller and can be found in links or patties. They are usually seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices such as sage and black pepper.

Time and Temperature: Air fry breakfast sausages at 360°F for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Italian Sausage

Italian sausages are a popular choice, typically made from pork and seasoned with fennel and garlic. They come in sweet (mild), spicy, and hot varieties.

Time and Temperature: Cook Italian sausages in the air fryer at 370°F for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time.

Bratwurst

Bratwurst is a German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. The flavor is distinct, with a mix of spices such as nutmeg and ginger.

Time and Temperature: Set your air fryer to 360°F and cook the bratwurst for about 10-14 minutes. Remember to turn them over halfway through to promote even cooking.

Kielbasa

Kielbasa is a Polish sausage typically made from ground pork, with a smoky and garlicky flavor profile.

Time and Temperature: Air fry kielbasa at 380°F for about 10 minutes. Turning is optional since they often have a thick skin that crisps up nicely all around.

Andouille

Andouille is a smoked sausage made from pork, prominent in Cajun cuisine. It’s packed with bold spices like paprika, garlic, and pepper.

Time and Temperature: Cook andouille sausages at 370°F for 10-15 minutes, depending on their size and thickness.

Chorizo

Chorizo is a type of pork sausage that’s highly seasoned, often with paprika and chili, giving it a distinctive red color and robust flavor.

Time and Temperature: Air fry chorizo at 400°F for about 6-10 minutes, depending on whether you’re using Spanish or Mexican variety as they differ in texture and cooking times.

Tips for Perfect Air Fried Sausage

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that your sausages start cooking immediately and can help achieve a uniform cook.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give your sausages some space in the basket. This allows the air to circulate freely, ensuring that each sausage cooks evenly.
• Keep the Casing On: The casing helps to retain the sausage’s flavor and juices. It also helps to prevent the sausage from drying out during the cooking process.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your sausages are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F for pork and 165°F for chicken sausages.
• Let Them Rest: Like most meats, sausages benefit from a short rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them juicier and more flavorful when sliced.