Air fryer breakfast sausage links are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal without the morning hassle. I personally love how the air fryer makes sausage links perfectly crispy on the outside while keeping them juicy on the inside. With minimal cleanup, you can prep your breakfast quickly and efficiently, allowing you to get on with other tasks. No more grease splatter on the stovetop, and no more cleaning a messy, greasy stove. Just place the sausage links in the basket of your Instant Pot Vortex Plus or any toaster oven style air fryer like the Omni, and in 9 minutes, they’re ready to eat!
Whether you prefer your sausage links fresh or frozen, this recipe works wonders. It’s the best way to ensure a hearty, protein-based breakfast with minimal effort. Make your mornings easier by prepping ahead; you can even grab a few sausages for on-the-go breakfasts. With just 2 ingredients, this method is not only fast but also a healthier option compared to traditional frying. The air frying method crisps the skin, making these sausages absolutely irresistible. In my opinion, this is the ultimate recipe for a quick, satisfying meal that sets a positive tone for the day.
Cooking Sausage Links in Air Fryer–The Answer
To make perfect breakfast sausage links in an air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 400F. Once preheated, lay the sausage links in a single layer in the fryer basket. Since sausages are a high-fat food, ensure the fryer is clean inside to avoid the dreaded white smoke problem caused by grease hitting the bottom of the fryer. This method ensures a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious, evenly cooked sausage links without the usual mess.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage Links
When making air fryer breakfast sausage links, you only need one ingredient: a package of breakfast sausage.
- I usually go for a 12 oz pack, and my favorites are Johnsonville and Jimmy Dean, both popular choices.
- You can also cook chicken or pork varieties, like the ones from Trader Joe’s.
- Since sausage is naturally high in fat, there’s no need for cooking spray or oil.
- Whether you use a toaster oven style or a small basket type air fryer, this recipe is simple.
- Just place the sausages in the pan and follow the note on your fryer for best results.
Recipe Tips for Breakfast Sausage in Air Fryer
- When cooking breakfast sausage in an air fryer, it’s best to use a basket style fryer. Arrange the sausages with enough breathing room on all sides to ensure they cook properly. After 5 minutes, flip the sausages to help them brown evenly. This method works well because it allows the hot air to circulate around each sausage link.
- Remember that air fryer models vary. Some may cook slower or faster than others, so it’s crucial to keep a close eye on the recipe the first time you make it. I’ve found that different brands of air fryers can have slight differences in cooking times, so being attentive ensures perfect results every time.
- For a complete breakfast, try pairing your sausages with Air Fryer Homemade Biscuits. This combination not only makes a delicious meal but also showcases the versatility of the air fryer. With these recipe tips, you can make a quick and tasty breakfast that everyone will love
How Long to Cook Frozen Breakfast Sausages
When cooking frozen sausage links in an air fryer, it’s important to break them apart if possible and cook them for 12 minutes. This ensures they are properly heated throughout. Breakfast sausages are done when their internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. If you don’t have a thermometer, check to see if they are cooked and no longer pink inside.
For those who like their sausages extra crispy or dark, just add an extra couple of minutes to the cook time. It’s really easy to get the sausages exactly the way you want them. This method is quick and ensures a delicious start to your day.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage!
You’ll love this air fryer breakfast sausage because it’s so easy. You can put the sausage in and walk away. There’s no need to flip them, as they brown on both sides. Breakfast is done in less than 15 mins. This method works for pork, chicken, or even frozen sausages. It’s quick and convenient, making your mornings smoother.
Ways to Serve Air Fryer Sausage Links
- Sausage links cooked in the air fryer make a great addition to any breakfast or brunch. They pair wonderfully with a variety of recipes. Try serving them with Veggie Breakfast Casserole or Paleo Blueberry Muffins for a hearty meal. Another option is to enjoy them alongside Veggie Scrambled Eggs and Almond Flour Banana Muffins. For a seasonal twist, pair the sausages with Paleo Pumpkin Muffins and add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor.
- If you’re planning a bigger breakfast spread, consider adding Instant Pot Crispy Potatoes, hash browns, or over easy eggs. These combinations are perfect for family breakfasts or gatherings. Additionally, air fryer sausage links are great for meal prep. Cook a batch at the beginning of the week to have a protein-packed snack ready to go.
- For busy mornings, I like to pack them for Tyler to take to work. They are easy to reheat and pair well with hardboiled eggs and fresh fruit. This makes for a balanced and satisfying breakfast that can be enjoyed on the go.
FAQs
Can you cook breakfast links in the air fryer?
Yes, you can easily air fry sausage links or any type of sausage. Set your air fryer to 360 degrees and cook for 8-10 minutes. For frozen sausage links, cook for 10-14 minutes, depending on the thickness. Thicker cuts like Italian sausage or thick pork patties will need a bit more time to cook through properly. This method ensures your sausages are perfectly cooked and delicious every time.
How long do you cook raw breakfast sausage links?
To cook raw breakfast sausage links, heat a nonstick skillet to medium-low. Add the sausage and cook for 12-16 minutes until the sausage is browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F, turning the links often to ensure they cook evenly. This method guarantees that the sausages are thoroughly cooked and delicious.
How long do sausages take in the air fryer?
To cook sausages in an air fryer, first pierce them a few times with a sharp knife to help release fat (this step is optional). Arrange the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the fryer to 180C and cook for 10-15 mins, turning every 5 minutes until the sausages are cooked through. This method ensures that your sausages are evenly cooked and delicious.
Why not cook sausages in air fryer?
Forget about air-frying frozen sausages because it can be challenging. While cooking raw sausage is an option, starting with frozen sausages can take four times as long to cook if you’re using an air fryer. This is because you need to thaw them first if they come out of the freezer in a super clumped-up mess. This extra step can make the process more time-consuming and less convenient.