Olivia Carter
Are you tired of cooking sausage links on the stovetop or oven, with all the mess and grease? Well, look no further! The air fryer is here to save the day. Sausage links cooked in the air fryer come out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, without all the added fat.
Using an air fryer to cook sausage links is not only convenient, but it also cuts down on cooking time. You no longer have to worry about preheating the oven or constantly flipping the sausages on the stovetop. Simply pop the sausages in the air fryer, set the timer, and let the magic happen.
To cook sausage links in the air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, place the sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave enough space between each sausage link to allow for proper air circulation.
Pro tip: If you want your sausage links to have an extra crispy texture, lightly coat them with cooking spray or olive oil before placing them in the air fryer.
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully slide the basket into the air fryer and set the timer for 12-15 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sausage links, so it’s always best to check them periodically for doneness.
Warning: Sausage links can become very hot, so use oven mitts or tongs to remove them from the air fryer.
Once the sausage links are cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They are now ready to be enjoyed on their own, served with your favourite dipping sauce, or used in your favourite recipes.
So, why bother with the stovetop or oven when you can easily cook sausage links in the air fryer? It’s a quick, convenient, and healthier alternative that will surely satisfy your cravings for crispy, juicy sausages.
How to Cook Sausage Links in the Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook sausage links, the air fryer is a fantastic option. It allows you to achieve a crisp outer layer while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Follow these simple steps to cook delicious sausage links in the air fryer.
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Place the sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Space them evenly to ensure that they cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the sausage links for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. This will ensure that all sides are evenly browned.
Step 4: Check the internal temperature of the sausages with a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Step 5: Once the sausages are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful sausage.
Step 6: Serve your delicious air fryer sausage links with your favorite accompaniments, such as mustard, ketchup, or sautéed onions and peppers.
Using your air fryer to cook sausage links is a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional methods like pan-frying or grilling. Give it a try and enjoy perfectly cooked sausages with minimal effort.
Preparing the Air Fryer
To cook sausage links in the air fryer, you need to start by preparing the air fryer itself. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer helps to ensure even cooking and crispy results. Set the air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 400°F (200°C). Preheating will take approximately 3-5 minutes.
2. Lightly Coat the Basket with Cooking Spray: To prevent the sausages from sticking to the basket, lightly coat it with cooking spray or brush it with oil. This will also help to achieve a golden brown exterior.
3. Arrange the Sausage Links: Place the sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can hinder proper air circulation and result in unevenly cooked sausages.
4. Shake or Flip the Sausages: To promote even cooking and browning, shake or flip the sausages halfway through the cooking process. This will ensure that all sides are cooked evenly.
5. Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the sausages and the air fryer model. It’s important to keep an eye on the sausages and adjust the cooking time or temperature accordingly. Use a food thermometer to check for the desired internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for pork sausages.
Note: You may need to experiment with cooking times and temperatures to find the perfect balance for your air fryer and preferred sausage texture.
By following these steps, you’ll be ready to cook delicious and crispy sausage links in your air fryer.
Seasoning the Sausage
Before you start cooking the sausage links in the air fryer, it’s important to season them to enhance their flavor. Here are a few seasoning ideas to try:
- Salt and pepper: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper over the sausage links to give them a basic, well-rounded flavor.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: For a more savory and aromatic taste, add a sprinkle of garlic powder and onion powder to the sausage links.
- Paprika and cayenne pepper: If you prefer a bit of heat, mix together paprika and cayenne pepper and rub the mixture onto the sausage links.
- Italian seasoning: Give your sausage links an Italian twist by using a blend of herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Maple syrup and brown sugar: For a sweet and savory combination, drizzle some maple syrup and sprinkle brown sugar over the sausage links before cooking.
Remember to coat the sausage links evenly with the chosen seasoning, ensuring that each link is well-covered. This will help to add depth and flavor to your air-fried sausage links.
Placing the Sausage Links in the Air Fryer
To start cooking sausage links in the air fryer, you first need to properly place them inside the cooking chamber. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer
Before placing the sausage links, you need to preheat the air fryer to ensure that it reaches the desired cooking temperature. Most air fryers have a preheat function that you can use. If your air fryer doesn’t have this feature, you can set the desired cooking temperature and allow it to run for a few minutes to heat up.
Step 2: Arrange the Sausage Links
Once the air fryer is preheated, you can arrange the sausage links inside the cooking chamber. Make sure to leave enough space between each link to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer as it can result in unevenly cooked sausages.
You can place the sausage links directly on the cooking rack or use a grill pan accessory if your air fryer comes with one. If using the cooking rack, you may want to place a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil beneath the sausages to catch any drippings and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Adjust the Cooking Time and Temperature
Once the sausage links are arranged, adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your recipe or preference. The cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the thickness and type of sausage links.
It’s generally recommended to cook sausage links in the air fryer at a temperature of around 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes. However, for thicker sausages, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Remember to flip the sausage links halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking on all sides.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the sausage links from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your perfectly cooked sausage links from the air fryer!
Cooking the Sausage in the Air Fryer
Using an air fryer to cook sausage links is a quick and easy way to achieve deliciously crispy results. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you cook sausage links in your air fryer:
Step 1: Preparing the Air Fryer
Before you begin cooking, preheat your air fryer to the temperature recommended for cooking sausage. This is typically around 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Preparing the Sausage
While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare the sausage links. If the sausages are frozen, allow them to thaw completely. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Step 3: Seasoning (Optional)
This step is optional but can add extra flavor to your sausage links. You can season the sausages with your choice of herbs, spices, or marinades. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or a simple salt and pepper mixture. Coat the sausages evenly with the seasoning.
Step 4: Cooking the Sausage
Place the seasoned sausage links in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there is enough space between each sausage to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. If you have a large quantity of sausage links, you may need to cook them in batches.
Set the air fryer to the recommended cooking time for sausage, which is typically around 10-15 minutes. Cook the sausages until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Halfway through the cooking time, take out the air fryer basket and shake it gently to ensure even cooking. This will help all sides of the sausage links to crisp up nicely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sausage links are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Place them on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess grease.
Serve the sausage links hot and enjoy them on their own, in a bun, or as a tasty addition to your favorite dishes. They make a great addition to breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Now that you know how to cook sausage links in the air fryer, you can enjoy a quick and delicious meal with minimal effort and cleanup. Experiment with different seasonings and enjoy the crispy goodness of air-fried sausages!
Serving and Enjoying the Air Fryer Sausage
Once your sausage links are perfectly cooked in the air fryer, it’s time to serve and enjoy your delicious meal. There are various ways you can serve and enjoy the air fryer sausage, depending on your preferences and the occasion.
1. Sausage Sandwich
One popular way to enjoy air fryer sausage is by making a sausage sandwich. You can use a soft bun or baguette and add your choice of toppings such as cheese, onions, peppers, or even a fried egg. The air fryer sausage adds a flavorful and juicy element to the sandwich, making it a satisfying meal.
2. Sausage and Veggie Skewers
If you’re looking for a healthier and lighter option, you can create sausage and veggie skewers. Cut the air fryer sausage in bite-sized pieces and skewer them along with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Brush them with a marinade or seasoning of your choice and grill them on a stovetop or barbecue for a tasty and colorful meal.
3. Sausage with Roasted Potatoes
Another delicious way to enjoy air fryer sausage is by pairing it with roasted potatoes. Cut the potatoes into small cubes and season them with herbs, spices, and olive oil. Air fry the potatoes until they are golden and crispy, then serve them alongside the sausage links. This combination makes a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for brunch or dinner.
Don’t forget to serve your air fryer sausage with your favorite condiments such as ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce to enhance the flavors even more. Whether you choose to make a sandwich, skewers, or pair them with potatoes, the air fryer sausage is sure to be a hit in any meal. Enjoy!
| Serving Suggestions: | Enjoyment Tips: |
|---|---|
| Soft buns or baguettes | Experiment with different toppings |
| Vegetables for skewers (bell peppers, onions, zucchini) | Brush skewers with marinade or seasoning |
| Potatoes (cubed and seasoned) | Pair with your favorite condiments |
Q&A
Can I cook sausage links in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook sausage links in the air fryer. It’s a quick and easy way to cook sausages without using a stove or grill.
How long should I cook sausage links in the air fryer?
The cooking time for sausage links in the air fryer can vary depending on the thickness of the sausages and the temperature of your air fryer. In general, it usually takes about 10-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to cook sausage links in the air fryer.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking sausage links?
Preheating the air fryer is not necessary when cooking sausage links. You can simply place the sausages directly into the air fryer basket and start cooking. However, some people prefer to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
Can I cook frozen sausage links in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen sausage links in the air fryer. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time as frozen sausages will take longer to cook than fresh ones. It’s best to check the internal temperature of the sausages with a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
What should I serve with sausage links cooked in the air fryer?
Sausage links cooked in the air fryer can be served on their own as a main dish, or you can use them in other recipes. They can be sliced and added to sandwiches or wraps, or served alongside eggs and toast for a delicious breakfast. They also pair well with roasted vegetables, pasta dishes, or potato salad.
