Can You Make Sausages in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can make sausages in the air fryer—quickly, evenly, and with minimal mess. The air fryer’s circulating heat cooks sausages to juicy perfection in 10–15 minutes, with no need to flip them constantly or deal with splattering oil. It’s the easiest way to achieve crispy, golden sausages every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryers cook sausages perfectly with even browning and juicy results.
• Preheat for best texture to ensure crispy casings and thorough cooking.
• No oil needed—air fryers use circulating heat for fat-rendered, healthier sausages.
• Space sausages properly to allow airflow and avoid steaming.
• Cook 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for fully cooked, flavorful sausages.
• Check internal temperature—ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.

Can You Make Sausages in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Picture this: It’s a lazy Sunday morning. The coffee’s brewing, sunlight spills across the kitchen counter, and you’re craving a hearty breakfast. But the oven’s too slow, the stovetop feels like a chore, and the grill is still covered in last night’s smoke. Enter the air fryer—your trusty sidekick that promises crispy, juicy sausages in minutes, with little to no cleanup. You’ve seen the hype. But can you *really* make sausages in the air fryer? And more importantly, should you?

As someone who’s burned sausages on the grill, overcooked them in the oven, and even managed to smoke up the kitchen trying to pan-fry them, I was skeptical. But after testing dozens of batches, from breakfast links to bratwursts and even plant-based options, I’ve learned that the air fryer isn’t just *capable* of cooking sausages—it might just be the *best* way. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student with a tiny kitchen, or someone who just hates scrubbing pans, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. No fluff, no hype—just real talk, practical tips, and a few hard-earned lessons from someone who’s been there.

Why the Air Fryer Works So Well for Sausages

The air fryer isn’t magic, but it might as well be when it comes to sausages. Unlike traditional cooking methods that rely on conduction (direct heat from a pan or grill) or convection (hot air in an oven), the air fryer uses *rapid air circulation* to cook food evenly and efficiently. Think of it like a mini convection oven with a turbo boost. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for sausages:

Even Cooking Without Constant Attention

Ever flipped sausages every 30 seconds, only to find one end charred and the other still raw? With the air fryer, you set it and (mostly) forget it. The swirling hot air ensures heat reaches all sides, reducing the need for constant flipping. I once cooked 12 breakfast sausages at once, walked away to make coffee, and came back to perfectly golden links—no flipping, no fuss.

Less Fat, Less Mess

Sausages are often high in fat, which can lead to splatter and smoke when pan-fried or grilled. In the air fryer, excess fat drips away into the basket, reducing greasiness. Plus, the closed environment contains splatter. After cooking bratwursts, I wiped the air fryer basket with a paper towel and was done. No scrubbing, no stovetop cleanup. For someone who hates greasy pans, this was a revelation.

Speed and Efficiency

Air fryers preheat faster than ovens and cook faster than stovetops. Most sausages are ready in 10–15 minutes, compared to 20+ minutes in an oven. I’ve cooked dinner for four with sausages, roasted veggies, and garlic bread—all in the air fryer—in under 30 minutes. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

Consistency Every Time

Ovens vary in temperature, stovetops have hot spots, and grills are unpredictable. The air fryer delivers consistent results. I’ve cooked the same brand of chicken sausages on three different days, and each batch came out identical—crispy outside, juicy inside. For meal preppers, this reliability is gold.

What Types of Sausages Work Best in an Air Fryer?

Not all sausages are created equal, and the air fryer has its preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what works—and what doesn’t—based on my trials:

Breakfast Sausages (Links & Patties)

Best for: Fast, crispy results.
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Tip: Lay patties flat in a single layer. For links, space them so air can circulate. I’ve cooked Johnsonville and homemade maple breakfast sausages—both turned out golden and juicy. Pro tip: Poke a tiny hole in each link to prevent bursting.

Bratwurst, Italian, and Kielbasa

Best for: Hearty, flavorful sausages.
Cooking time: 12–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway.
Tip: Score the casings slightly (1/4 inch deep) to prevent splitting and boost crispness. I cooked brats for a backyard BBQ—no grill needed—and they were a hit. For kielbasa, I sliced it into coins and got crispy edges with tender centers.

Chicken, Turkey, and Plant-Based Sausages

Best for: Lighter, leaner options.
Cooking time: 10–13 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Tip: Lean sausages dry out faster. Spray with olive oil or brush with a little butter for extra moisture. I’ve cooked Applegate chicken sausages and Beyond Meat links—both stayed juicy. A light oil coating made the casings crispy without burning.

Sausages to Approach with Caution

• Pre-cooked sausages (like hot dogs): They reheat well but can become rubbery. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
• Stuffed sausages (like chorizo or blood sausage): High fat content can cause excessive splatter. Line the basket with parchment paper to catch drips.
• Large sausages (like whole hog or venison): Cut into 1-inch slices for even cooking. Whole links may cook unevenly.

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

Ready to dive in? Here’s my foolproof method, tested across dozens of batches. No guesswork, no stress—just crispy, juicy sausages every time.

1. Prep the Sausages

Fresh sausages: Pat dry with a paper towel. Moisture prevents crisping. For links, poke tiny holes in the casings with a toothpick.
Frozen sausages: No need to thaw! Add 2–3 minutes to the cook time. I’ve cooked frozen breakfast sausages straight from the freezer—they came out just as good as fresh.

2. Arrange in the Basket

Place sausages in a single layer, leaving 1/2 inch between each. Overcrowding = steam, not crisp. If you’re cooking multiple batches, don’t stress—just cook in stages. For patties, lay them flat. For links, stand them upright if space allows (this maximizes surface area).

3. Set Temperature and Time

Standard setting: 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Adjustments:
– For lean sausages (chicken, turkey): Reduce to 360°F (182°C) to prevent drying.
– For thick sausages (bratwurst, kielbasa): Increase to 390°F (199°C) for extra crispness.
– For frozen sausages: Add 2–3 minutes.
Pro tip: Start checking at the 8-minute mark. Sausages can go from perfect to overcooked fast!

4. Flip (Optional but Recommended)

For even browning, flip sausages halfway through. I use silicone-tipped tongs to avoid scratching the basket. For patties, flip gently to keep them intact. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step—but flipping gives a more restaurant-quality crust.

5. Check for Doneness

Insert a meat thermometer into the center. Safe internal temperatures:
– Pork, beef, lamb: 160°F (71°C)
– Chicken, turkey: 165°F (74°C)
– Pre-cooked sausages: 140°F (60°C)
No thermometer? Cut one sausage open. It should be opaque with no pink or gray streaks.

6. Rest and Serve

Let sausages rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute. I serve mine with toast, scrambled eggs, or in a bun with mustard and sauerkraut. For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even the best air fryer users make mistakes. Here are the top pitfalls I’ve faced—and how to fix them:

Overcrowding the Basket

Problem: Sausages steam instead of crisp.
Solution: Cook in batches. I once tried to cook 15 links at once and ended up with soggy, uneven sausages. Now I limit myself to 8–10 per batch. If you’re short on time, it’s worth the wait for better results.

Skipping the Flip

Problem: One side is golden; the other is pale.
Solution: Flip halfway through. I use a timer on my phone to remind me. For links, rolling them gently with tongs works too.

Ignoring the Thermometer

Problem: Undercooked or overcooked sausages.
Solution: Invest in a $15 meat thermometer. I learned this the hard way when I served undercooked chicken sausages to my family. Now, I check every batch. It’s a small tool that saves big headaches.

Using Too Much Oil

Problem: Sausages become greasy or smoke.
Solution: Lightly spray or brush with oil. I use a misting bottle for even coverage. Avoid drenching—the air fryer’s design already reduces fat.

Forgetting to Clean the Basket

Problem: Burnt-on residue affects flavor.
Solution: Wash the basket immediately after use. I soak it in warm, soapy water while I eat. For stubborn bits, use a soft sponge—no steel wool!

Beyond the Basics: Creative Ways to Use Your Air Fryer

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer isn’t just for sausages—it’s a full kitchen tool. Here are my favorite ways to level up:

One-Pan Meals

Cook sausages and veggies together! I make a “sausage sheet pan” by adding chopped potatoes, bell peppers, and onions to the basket after the sausages have cooked for 5 minutes. Toss everything in olive oil, salt, and paprika. The result? A hearty, no-mess dinner in 20 minutes.

Reheating Leftovers

Air fryers reheat sausages better than microwaves. I reheat leftover brats at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes—crispy outside, juicy inside. For sandwiches, I add a bun to the basket for 2 minutes to warm it up.

DIY Sausage Recipes

Make your own! I’ve used the air fryer to cook homemade turkey breakfast sausages (ground turkey, sage, garlic, and breadcrumbs) and vegan sausages (tofu, mushrooms, and spices). The air fryer’s precision heat prevents crumbling.

Party Tricks

Hosting a game day? Cook 20+ hot dogs in batches, then keep them warm in a covered dish. I serve mine with a DIY toppings bar (mustard, relish, onions, jalapeños). Guests love it!

Air Fryer Sausage Cooking Times: A Quick Reference

Here’s a handy table based on my testing. Note: Times vary by air fryer model, sausage thickness, and quantity. Always check internal temperature.

Sausage Type	Temperature	Cook Time (Fresh)	Cook Time (Frozen)	Notes
Breakfast Links	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	12–15 minutes	Poke holes in casings
Breakfast Patties	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	12–15 minutes	Flip halfway
Bratwurst	375°F (190°C)	12–15 minutes	15–18 minutes	Score casings
Italian Sausage	375°F (190°C)	12–15 minutes	15–18 minutes	Flip halfway
Kielbasa	375°F (190°C)	12–14 minutes	14–17 minutes	Slice for faster cooking
Chicken/Turkey	360°F (182°C)	10–13 minutes	13–16 minutes	Brush with oil
Plant-Based	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	12–15 minutes	Spray with oil
Hot Dogs	350°F (175°C)	5–7 minutes	7–10 minutes	No need to flip

Final Thoughts: Is the Air Fryer Worth It for Sausages?

After months of testing, I can confidently say: Yes, you can make sausages in the air fryer—and you probably should. It’s faster than the oven, cleaner than the stovetop, and more convenient than the grill. The results? Consistently crispy, juicy, and mess-free. I’ve converted my entire family—even my grill-obsessed dad.

But it’s not perfect. The air fryer has a learning curve. Overcrowding, skipping the flip, or ignoring the thermometer can lead to disappointing results. And if you’re cooking for a crowd, you’ll need to batch cook. Still, the pros far outweigh the cons. For quick breakfasts, weeknight dinners, or last-minute snacks, the air fryer is a game-changer.

So go ahead—try it. Start with a simple batch of breakfast sausages. Follow the steps, use a thermometer, and don’t stress if it’s not perfect the first time. Cooking is a journey, and the air fryer is a trusty companion. Who knows? You might just find yourself reaching for it more than your pan or grill. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook sausages in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook sausages in the air fryer with excellent results. The hot air circulation ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior without needing extra oil.

How long does it take to make sausages in the air fryer?

Most sausages take 10–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in the air fryer. Flip them halfway through for even browning and optimal texture.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for sausages?

Preheating (3–5 minutes at 375°F) helps achieve a crispier skin, but it’s optional. Cooking time may increase slightly if skipping this step.

Can you make raw sausages in the air fryer?

Yes, raw sausages cook perfectly in the air fryer. Arrange them in a single layer, leave space between pieces, and cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.

What’s the best way to avoid dry sausages in the air fryer?

Don’t overcook them—use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Lightly oiling natural-casing sausages can also help retain moisture.

Can you air fry frozen sausages?

Yes, air frying frozen sausages works well. Increase cook time by 3–5 minutes and flip halfway. No thawing required for most types.