Are you wondering how to cook breakfast sausage links in an air fryer? Look no further! Cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve a delicious and crispy texture. With the right cooking time and temperature, you can enjoy perfectly cooked sausage links without the hassle of pan-frying or grilling.
When it comes to cooking breakfast sausage links in an air fryer, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between crispiness and tenderness. To achieve this, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them for optimal air circulation.
The cooking time for breakfast sausage links in an air fryer typically ranges from 10 to 15 minutes. However, the exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the sausages and your desired level of doneness. It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the sausage links with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to a safe temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Remember to flip the sausage links halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning and cooking. This will help to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Once the sausage links are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, remove them from the basket and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will help to seal in the juices and ensure a tender and flavorful bite. Serve the breakfast sausage links with your favorite side dishes like eggs, toast, or hash browns, and enjoy a satisfying breakfast that’s both easy and delicious!
How to Cook Breakfast Sausage Links in Air Fryer
Breakfast sausage links are a delicious and convenient option for a quick morning meal. If you have an air fryer, you can easily cook them to perfection without any hassle. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook breakfast sausage links in an air fryer.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: While the air fryer is preheating, take your breakfast sausage links out of the package and arrange them in a single layer on a plate or cutting board.
Step 3: Use a fork or toothpick to prick several holes in each sausage link. This will prevent them from bursting while cooking and allows the fat to escape.
Step 4: Season the sausage links with your preferred spices and herbs. You can use a premade seasoning blend or create your own using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other spices you like.
Cooking:
Step 5: Open the air fryer basket and place the seasoned sausage links inside. Make sure you leave enough space between them for the air to circulate evenly.
Step 6: Close the air fryer basket and set the timer for 10 minutes.
Step 7: After 10 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the sausage links using tongs. This will ensure that they cook evenly on all sides.
Step 8: Close the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage links reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 9: Once cooked, carefully remove the sausage links from the air fryer and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Step 10: Let the sausage links rest for a minute or two before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making the sausages more flavorful and juicy.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked breakfast sausage links straight from the air fryer. Serve them on their own or pair them with eggs, toast, or pancakes for a delicious breakfast that will fuel your day!
Preparing the Sausage
Before cooking the breakfast sausage links in an air fryer, you need to properly prepare them. Follow these steps:
1. Thaw the Sausage
Make sure that your breakfast sausage links are completely thawed before putting them in the air fryer. Thawing them overnight in the refrigerator is recommended to ensure even cooking.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This will help to ensure that the sausage cooks evenly and gets that delicious crispy texture.
3. Apply Cooking Oil
Lightly brush or spray cooking oil on the air fryer basket to prevent the sausage from sticking. This step is essential to avoid any mess or the sausage breaking apart during cooking.
4. Arrange the Sausage Links
Place the breakfast sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each link to allow for proper circulation of hot air.
5. Cook Time and Temperature
Cook the breakfast sausage links in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and size of the sausage links, so be sure to check them for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model, so it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidelines.
6. Check for Doneness
Using tongs, carefully remove one sausage link from the air fryer basket and cut it open to ensure it is cooked through to your desired level. If necessary, continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Let them Rest
After cooking, let the breakfast sausage links rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will help retain their juiciness and allow the flavors to settle.
Now that you know how to prepare the breakfast sausage links, you can enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked breakfast right from your air fryer!
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking your breakfast sausage links in the air fryer, it’s important to preheat the appliance. Preheating helps ensure that your food cooks evenly and thoroughly, resulting in a delicious meal.
To preheat your air fryer, follow these steps:
Step 1: Plug in the Air Fryer
Plug in the air fryer and make sure it is securely connected to a power source.
Step 2: Set the Temperature
Set the temperature on the air fryer to the recommended cooking temperature for your sausage links. Typically, breakfast sausage links are cooked at a temperature of 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Set the Timer
Set the timer on the air fryer to the appropriate cooking time. The cooking time for breakfast sausage links in an air fryer is typically around 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Allow the Air Fryer to Preheat
Allow the air fryer to preheat for 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches the desired cooking temperature. Some air fryers have a preheat function that will indicate when it is ready to cook.
Once your air fryer is preheated, you can proceed to cook your breakfast sausage links following the recommended cooking time and temperature. Enjoy your delicious and crispy sausage links!
Cooking the Sausage
Once you have preheated your air fryer to the desired temperature and prepared the sausage links, it’s time to start cooking!
Step 1: Preparing the Air Fryer
Lightly coat the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent the sausage links from sticking.
Step 2: Placing the Sausage Links
Arrange the breakfast sausage links in a single layer inside the air fryer basket or tray. Make sure there is some space between each link to allow for even cooking.
Step 3: Cooking Time and Temperature
Set the air fryer to the recommended temperature for cooking breakfast sausage links, usually around 350°F (175°C). If your air fryer doesn’t have exact temperature settings, choose the closest option available.
Cook the sausage links for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. Check the sausage for doneness by cutting into one link to ensure it is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. If necessary, you can cook the sausage for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully cooked.
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sausage links, as well as the specific air fryer model you are using. It’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cooking times and temperatures.
Once the sausage links are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a fork. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tip: You can also brush the sausage links with a small amount of oil or maple syrup before cooking for added flavor and moisture.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked breakfast sausage links from the air fryer!
Checking the Internal Temperature
It’s important to check the internal temperature of your breakfast sausage links to ensure they are cooked thoroughly and safe to eat. Using a food thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the doneness of your sausages. Here are the recommended internal temperatures for different types of sausage:
- Fully cooked sausage links: 160°F (71°C)
- Uncooked sausage links: 165°F (74°C)
To check the temperature, insert the food thermometer into the thickest part of a sausage link without touching the bone or the air fryer basket. Make sure the probe is not touching the hot heating element or the sides of the air fryer, as this can give inaccurate readings. Once the thermometer gives a stable reading, you can determine if the sausages are done cooking.
If the internal temperature has not reached the recommended temperature, continue cooking the sausages in the air fryer for a few more minutes and check again. Once the sausages reach the appropriate internal temperature, they are safe to eat and can be enjoyed for breakfast or any other meal.
Q&A
Can I cook breakfast sausage links in the air fryer?
Yes, you can definitely cook breakfast sausage links in the air fryer. It is a quick and easy way to cook them without any extra oil.
How long should I cook breakfast sausage links in the air fryer?
The cooking time for breakfast sausage links in the air fryer is typically around 10-12 minutes. However, it may vary depending on the thickness of the sausages and the brand of the air fryer.
What temperature should I set the air fryer to for cooking breakfast sausage links?
It is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) before cooking breakfast sausage links. This high temperature ensures that the sausages cook through and become crispy on the outside.
Is it necessary to flip the breakfast sausage links while cooking in the air fryer?
Yes, it is recommended to flip the breakfast sausage links halfway through the cooking time in the air fryer. This helps to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides and become browned and crispy.