Sausage Links in Air Fryer

This easy air fryer recipe for cooking sausage links is a game changer, combining the efficiency and health benefits of air frying with the rich, comforting taste of perfectly cooked sausages! Whether you prefer pork, chicken, turkey, or plant-based link sausages, the air fryer makes cooking sausages super easy!

A close up view of 14 link sausages on a white plate with other breakfast items on the table.

Making Sausage Links in Air Fryer Recipe might be your new favorite method if you're ever craving a hearty breakfast but don't want to spend a lot of time cooking!

The air fryer method uses the circulation of hot air to cook raw sausages, reducing the need for extra fat without compromising on flavor or texture.

Not only is this cooking method quick and easy, making it perfect for busy mornings or a leisurely weekend brunch, but the best part is having juicy sausages that are perfectly cooked every time.

For more simple breakfast recipes to make in your air fryer, check out my Air Fryer Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, Red Lobster Biscuits in Air Fryer, Starbucks Cheese Danish Recipe (For the Air Fryer & Oven), Toaster Strudel Air Fryer, and Air Fryer Apple Fritters!

A close up view of link sausages on a white plate with berries and hash browns.

Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Sausage Links Recipe

Sausage Links. The only ingredient is raw sausage links! These instructions are designed with standard-sized breakfast sausage links in mind, but it can easily be adapted for different types of sausage. Pork sausage, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausages can be used, offering flexibility based on dietary preferences or what you have available in your fridge or freezer. Different kinds of sausages may need a different cook time, especially thicker sausages which would cook for longer.

A pack of sausage links in front of an air fryer.

How to Make Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage Links

While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer to 370 degrees F for a few minutes can help achieve a more even cooking result. However, many modern air fryers don't require preheating, so you can skip this step if you're short on time or if your model cooks efficiently without preheating.
Place the uncooked sausage links in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure they're not touching; this helps the hot air circulate freely around each sausage, cooking them evenly and giving them a crispy exterior. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

A top view of 14 uncooked link sausages in an open air fryer basket.

A close view of 14 uncooked link sausages in an open air fryer basket.

Air Fry sausages at 370 degrees F for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer basket and give it a gentle shake or use tongs to turn the sausages. This ensures that all sides of the sausage links brown nicely and cook evenly.
The best way to ensure your sausages are fully cooked and safe to eat is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160 degrees F. If not, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes and check again.

A top view of 14 link sausages in an open air fryer basket halfway through cooking.

A top view of 14 cooked link sausages in an open air fryer basket.

Once cooked, carefully remove the cooked sausages from the air fryer and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Let them rest for a few minutes; this helps redistribute the juices inside, making your sausages juicier.
Serve hot with your favorite breakfast sides, such as hash browns, eggs, toast, English muffin, waffles, pancakes, or biscuits!

A top view of link sausages on a white plate with berries and hash browns.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen sausage links in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen sausage links in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer?

Preheating is optional and depends on your air fryer model. Some recipes and air fryers benefit from preheating for more even cooking, but it's not always necessary.

How do I prevent the sausages from sticking to the basket?

Most air fryer baskets are non-stick, but you can lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or use parchment paper with holes to prevent sticking.

Can I overlap the sausages in the air fryer?

For best results, sausages should not be overlapped or crowded in the basket. This allows for even cooking and ensures each sausage is properly browned.

Is air-frying sausages healthier than pan-frying?

Air frying can be a healthier option as it uses less oil, reducing the overall fat content of the sausages without compromising on flavor or texture.

A top view of link sausages on a white plate with berries and gravy next to other breakfast items on a table.

A close up view of a sausage being dipped in gravy.

Storage & Freezing

Storage: Allow the sausages to cool to room temperature before placing them in a sealed container or ZipLoc bag where they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat leftover sausage in the microwave or air fryer at 370 degrees F for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Freezing: Cool the cooked sausages completely and wrap each sausage individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper, and then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container, where they can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them in the air fryer or microwave as described above.

A top view of 14 link sausages on a white plate with other breakfast items on the table.

Substitutions & Variations

Beyond breakfast sausages, try hot or mild Italian sausage links, Andouille, Chorizo, or even vegan sausages for different flavors.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken or turkey sausages are excellent substitutes for pork. They provide a similar satisfying experience with less fat.
Ensure the sausages you select are free from fillers or additives that contain gluten or allergens, depending on your dietary restrictions.
There are many plant-based sausages available that are made from ingredients like soy, peas, or mushrooms. They’re a great alternative for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Opt for mild, medium, or hot sausages depending on your spice tolerance. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper before cooking can also enhance the heat.
For a sweeter option, look for maple-flavored sausages or create a sweet and savory contrast by serving your sausages with a side of maple syrup for dipping.
Before cooking, you can season your sausages with herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder also complement the meaty taste well.

Pro Tips

Consider marinating or seasoning your sausages before air frying. Even a simple brush of olive oil and some herbs can elevate the flavor.
If your air fryer model recommends preheating, don’t skip this step. Starting with a hot air fryer can help get that desirable crispy skin on the sausages.
To make cleaning even easier, you can place a piece of parchment paper (with holes) in the bottom of the air fryer basket. Just make sure it doesn’t cover the sides and impede air flow.
Always arrange your sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate freely around each sausage, ensuring even cooking and browning.
Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to steaming rather than frying, affecting the texture. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain space between sausages.
Pay attention to the thickness of your sausages. Thicker sausages may require a couple of extra minutes, while thinner ones might be done quicker.
Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or use tongs to flip the sausages. This helps achieve a uniform cook and a crispy exterior all around.
Use a Meat Thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the sausages reaches 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Have you tried this Air Fryer Sausages recipe?

Please leave a comment below if you have tried making this recipe. I love to hear from you and enjoy reading about what you think. Be sure to tag @devourdinner when posting to social media. I can't wait to see your photos!

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