how to cook breakfast sausage links in air fryer

Are you tired of cooking breakfast sausages on the stovetop, where they sometimes end up too greasy or not cooked through? An air fryer can be your solution! In this article, we'll show you how to cook breakfast sausage links to perfection in an air fryer, and share with you tips, tricks, and recipes to make the most out of your breakfast sausages.

Advantages of cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer

Air fryers are one of the hottest appliances on the market right now. They use convection technology to circulate hot air around the food, making it crispy and delicious. Here are the advantages of cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer:

The sausages cook faster in an air fryer than they do on a stovetop
The air fryer makes the sausages crispy without the added oil of pan-frying
By using an air fryer, you get evenly cooked sausages every time

Another advantage of cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer is that it is a healthier option. Since the air fryer uses hot air to cook the sausages, there is no need to add any extra oil or fat. This means that the sausages will have fewer calories and less fat than if they were cooked in a pan.

Additionally, air fryers are very easy to clean. Unlike a stovetop or oven, there are no pots or pans to scrub. Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. This is especially convenient for busy mornings when you don't have a lot of time to spend on cleaning up after breakfast.

Air fryer settings for cooking breakfast sausage links

Not all air fryers are created equal, so it's important to know which settings to use for cooking breakfast sausage links. We recommend the following:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
Cook the sausages for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through
Check the internal temperature of the sausages using a meat thermometer. They should reach a temperature of 160°F (71°C) before they are considered safe to eat.

Tips for selecting the best breakfast sausage links for air frying

The quality of the sausage links you use for air frying is just as important as the cooking process. Here are some tips for selecting the best breakfast sausage links for air frying:

The sausage links should be fresh, not frozen
Choose sausage links that are already cooked or labeled "fully cooked"
Opt for sausage links without added fillers or preservatives

Another important factor to consider when selecting breakfast sausage links for air frying is the type of meat used. Pork is the most common meat used in breakfast sausages, but you can also find chicken, turkey, and even vegetarian options. Consider your dietary preferences and choose a sausage link that fits your needs.

It's also a good idea to read the ingredient list on the package before making a purchase. Look for sausage links that use high-quality ingredients and avoid those with added sugars or artificial flavors. This will not only ensure a better taste but also a healthier option for your breakfast.

Preparing the air fryer for cooking breakfast sausage links

Before cooking the sausages, it's important to prepare your air fryer properly. Follow these steps for optimal results:

Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to ensure that it's at the right temperature
Spray the fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking
Place the sausage links in a single layer in the basket, leaving some space between them for air circulation

It's also important to note that the cooking time for sausage links in an air fryer may vary depending on the thickness of the sausages. Thicker sausages may require a longer cooking time, while thinner sausages may cook faster.

Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings and spices to add flavor to your breakfast sausages. Try adding some garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.

Steps for cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer

Now for the main event: cooking the sausages! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked breakfast sausage links every time:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
Place the sausage links in a single layer in the basket
Cook the sausages for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through
Check the internal temperature of the sausages using a meat thermometer. They should reach a temperature of 160°F (71°C) before they are considered safe to eat.
Remove the sausages from the air fryer
Let the sausages cool for a few minutes before serving

But wait, there's more! Here are a couple of additional tips to take your air fryer sausage game to the next level:

Experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy or maple-flavored, to add some variety to your breakfast routine.
If you're cooking a large batch of sausages, consider using a rack insert to maximize the space in your air fryer and ensure that the sausages cook evenly.

How to check if the breakfast sausage links are cooked through

It's crucial to make sure that the sausage links are cooked all the way through. Here's how to check:

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausage links. They should read 160°F (71°C).
Cut into one of the sausages to check that it is no longer pink in the middle

Another way to check if the sausage links are cooked through is to observe the color of the juices that come out when you pierce them with a fork. If the juices are clear, the sausages are fully cooked. If the juices are still pink or red, the sausages need to be cooked for a few more minutes.

Serving suggestions for breakfast sausage links cooked in an air fryer

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving breakfast sausage links cooked in an air fryer. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Serve the sausages with eggs and toast for a classic breakfast
Chop up the sausages and use them in breakfast burritos or breakfast bowls
Top the sausages with salsa and sour cream for a Mexican-inspired breakfast
Use the sausages to make sausage gravy for biscuits and gravy

Another great way to serve breakfast sausage links cooked in an air fryer is to use them in a breakfast sandwich. Toast an English muffin, add a cooked sausage link, a fried egg, and a slice of cheese for a delicious and filling breakfast sandwich. You can also add some avocado or tomato for extra flavor and nutrition.

Different seasonings and flavors to add to your breakfast sausage links before air frying

If you want to jazz up your breakfast sausages, try adding some seasonings or flavors before cooking them in the air fryer. Here are some ideas:

Add some maple syrup or honey for a sweet and savory twist on breakfast sausage links
Season the sausages with garlic powder and onion powder for a flavorful breakfast option
Try adding red pepper flakes for a bit of a kick
Sprinkle some brown sugar over the sausages for a caramelized crust and a hint of sweetness

Comparing the taste and texture of air-fried vs other methods of cooking breakfast sausages.

Curious how air-frying stacks up against other cooking methods for breakfast sausages? Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Compared to pan-frying, air-frying results in sausages that are less greasy and have a crispier texture
Compared to grilling, air-frying is a faster and easier option
Sausages cooked in an oven tend to be dryer and less flavorful than those cooked in an air fryer

Frequently asked questions about cooking breakfast sausages in an air fryer.

And now for some frequently asked questions about cooking breakfast sausages in an air fryer:

Can I cook frozen breakfast sausages in an air fryer? Yes, you can. Adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes
Can I cook other types of sausages in an air fryer? Yes, you can. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the sausages
Do I need to oil the sausages before air frying? No, you don't. The natural oils from the sausages will prevent sticking.

How to clean your air fryer after cooking breakfast sausages.

Cleaning your air fryer after cooking breakfast sausages is a breeze. Here's what you need to do:

Let the air fryer cool down before cleaning it
Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior of the air fryer
To clean the fryer basket and tray, use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge
Let all the pieces air dry before putting them away

Conclusion

Cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy, delicious sausages every time. With the tips, tricks, and recipes in this guide, you'll be a breakfast sausage pro in no time. So go ahead and try air-frying your breakfast sausages today- your taste buds will thank you!