Craving juicy, flavorful chicken sausage but short on time? Ditch the skillet and embrace the magic of the air fryer! This versatile kitchen appliance delivers perfectly cooked sausages with a crispy exterior and tender interior in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Furthermore, air frying requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, prepping for a weekend brunch, or simply seeking a satisfying snack, the air fryer is your secret weapon to sausage perfection. Get ready to unlock a world of flavor with this simple, speedy, and undeniably delicious air fryer chicken sausage recipe.
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your chicken sausages. If using frozen sausages, ensure they are fully thawed for optimal cooking. Pat the sausages dry with a paper towel; this helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior. Next, lightly coat the sausages with a thin layer of olive oil or cooking spray. This step, while optional, enhances browning and adds a touch of richness. Arrange the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so if necessary, cook the sausages in batches. Then, air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sausages are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Consequently, the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your sausages, so it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to a safe internal temperature. Finally, remove the sausages from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Once you’ve mastered the basic air fryer chicken sausage technique, the possibilities are endless. For instance, you can elevate your sausages with a touch of sweetness by tossing them in a glaze made from honey, maple syrup, or even barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, add a smoky dimension by incorporating smoked paprika or chipotle powder into your seasoning. Moreover, air-fried chicken sausages pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Serve them alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or nestled in a warm bun for a quick and easy sandwich. In addition, consider incorporating them into pasta dishes, rice bowls, or even breakfast scrambles for a protein-packed meal. With its speed, convenience, and ability to deliver consistently delicious results, the air fryer is truly a game-changer for cooking chicken sausages. Experiment with different flavors and seasonings to discover your perfect combination. Ultimately, you’ll find yourself reaching for the air fryer time and time again for a satisfying and hassle-free sausage experience.
Preparing Your Chicken Sausages for Air Frying
Getting your chicken sausages ready for the air fryer is super simple, but a few little tweaks can make a big difference in how they turn out. First things first, you’ll want to decide if you’re using fresh or frozen sausages. Fresh sausages are generally ready to go straight into the air fryer, but frozen ones need a bit of extra attention.
If you’re working with frozen sausages, you have a couple of options. You can thaw them completely before cooking, which will ensure even cooking. The best way to thaw them is overnight in the refrigerator. This slow thaw helps maintain the sausage’s texture and prevents bacterial growth. If you’re short on time, you can also run them under cold water for a few minutes, just until they’re pliable enough to separate. Avoid using hot water, as this can partially cook the sausages unevenly. Alternatively, you can air fry them from frozen, but you’ll need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. We’ll cover specific cooking times later, but generally, add about 5-7 minutes to the recommended time for fresh sausages if you’re cooking from frozen.
Whether you’re using fresh or thawed sausages, patting them dry with a paper towel is a good idea. Excess moisture can create steam in the air fryer, which can prevent the sausages from browning properly and getting that nice crispy exterior we all love. For extra crispy sausages, you can even lightly coat them with a little bit of oil. Avocado oil, olive oil, or even coconut oil all work well. Just a light spritz or a quick toss in a bowl with a teaspoon or two of oil is all you need.
Pricking the sausages with a fork a few times before air frying is another helpful tip. This allows some of the fat to render out during cooking, helping them crisp up even more and preventing them from bursting open in the air fryer. Don’t overdo it – just a few pricks are sufficient. And if you’re looking for a bit more flavor, consider adding some dry rubs or spices to your sausages before cooking. Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, or even a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper can elevate the taste.
Quick Tips for Sausage Prep
| Type of Sausage | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Fresh | Pat dry, optionally prick and lightly oil |
| Frozen | Thaw overnight in refrigerator or under cold water, then pat dry, optionally prick and lightly oil. Alternatively, cook from frozen, adding extra time. |
Why these steps matter:
These seemingly small steps can significantly impact the final result. Patting down ensures a crispier skin, pricking helps with even cooking and prevents bursting, and a touch of oil adds to the browning process. Proper thawing of frozen sausages ensures they cook through evenly.
Preheating the Air Fryer for Optimal Results
Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step often overlooked, but it’s key to achieving that perfectly cooked chicken sausage with a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Think of it like preheating your oven – it ensures even cooking and helps your food crisp up beautifully. Skipping this step can lead to unevenly cooked sausage, with some parts overcooked and others undercooked. Preheating creates a consistent temperature within the air fryer, allowing the hot air to circulate effectively and work its magic on your sausages from the moment they go in.
Why Preheating Matters
Preheating allows the air fryer to reach its target temperature before you add the food. This ensures that the cooking process begins immediately and consistently, leading to better browning and crisping. A preheated air fryer also helps to reduce overall cooking time, as the food starts cooking as soon as it hits the hot air. Without preheating, the food sits in a gradually warming air fryer, essentially steaming before it begins to crisp, leading to a less desirable texture.
How to Preheat Your Air Fryer
Most air fryers have a preheat function. Simply set the desired temperature (we recommend 400°F (200°C) for chicken sausage) and let it run for 3-5 minutes. Some models will beep or display an indicator light when preheating is complete. If your air fryer doesn’t have a designated preheat function, simply set the timer for 3-5 minutes at your desired cooking temperature before adding the sausages. This will allow the air fryer to heat up sufficiently.
You can test if your air fryer is preheated by carefully placing your hand near the opening (be cautious not to touch the hot elements). You should feel a rush of hot air. While this method isn’t precise, it provides a good indication of whether the air fryer has reached the desired temperature.
Here’s a handy table summarizing preheating guidelines:
| Air Fryer Model | Preheat Temperature (°F) | Preheat Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Most Models | 400 | 3-5 |
| Smaller Capacity Air Fryers | 400 | 2-3 |
| Larger Capacity Air Fryers | 400 | 4-5 |
Preheating might seem like a small step, but trust us, it makes a big difference in the final result. Taking those few extra minutes to preheat your air fryer will ensure your chicken sausages are cooked to perfection every time, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Arranging the Sausages in the Air Fryer Basket
Getting the sausages arranged just right in your air fryer basket is key to ensuring they cook evenly and develop that perfect crispy exterior. Think of it like real estate – you want to maximize the space, but also give each sausage enough breathing room to really sizzle.
Spacing for Success
Overcrowding is the enemy of crispiness! When sausages are crammed together, the hot air can’t circulate properly, leading to steamed, rather than crispy, sausages. Avoid this culinary catastrophe by ensuring there’s a little space between each sausage. You don’t need a ruler, just make sure they aren’t touching. This allows the hot air to flow all around each sausage, working its magic to create that satisfying snap.
Single Layer Strategy
For optimal results, arrange your sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Resist the urge to pile them up, even if you’re cooking for a crowd. Cooking in multiple batches is far superior to a single, overcrowded batch that ends up unevenly cooked. If you absolutely must cook a larger quantity at once, consider using skewers to keep the sausages upright and maximize airflow. Just be sure to leave space between the skewers, too! This single-layer approach guarantees that each sausage receives direct heat, promoting even browning and cooking.
Shaking Things Up
While preheating your air fryer is crucial for that initial blast of heat, don’t just set it and forget it. About halfway through the cooking process, give the basket a gentle shake or toss. This simple action redistributes the sausages, ensuring that any previously hidden surfaces get their turn in the spotlight. Think of it as rotating your sausages for even tanning, but instead of a beach, it’s your air fryer, and instead of a tan, it’s a perfectly browned, crispy casing.
Air Fryer Capacity and Sausage Size
Remember, the size of your air fryer and the size of your sausages will influence how many you can comfortably cook at once. A smaller air fryer will naturally hold fewer sausages. Similarly, thicker sausages will require more space than thinner ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find the sweet spot for your particular setup. Use the following table as a general guide:
| Air Fryer Size | Approximate Number of Standard-Sized Sausages |
|---|---|
| Small (2-3 quarts) | 4-6 |
| Medium (4-5 quarts) | 6-8 |
| Large (6+ quarts) | 8-12 |
This table provides a rough estimate; you may need to adjust based on the specific dimensions of your air fryer and sausages. If you find that your sausages are browning unevenly, try reducing the number you cook at a time.
Maximizing Airflow for Optimal Crispness
The key to perfectly air-fried sausages lies in maximizing airflow. By strategically arranging your sausages in a single layer with space between them, you create channels for the hot air to circulate freely. This crucial airflow ensures even cooking and promotes the development of a delightfully crispy exterior. Remember, the goal is to achieve that satisfying snap with every bite, and proper spacing is the secret ingredient.
Checking for Doneness: Ensuring Food Safety
Getting your chicken sausage perfectly cooked in the air fryer means nailing both deliciousness and safety. Nobody wants a sad, undercooked sausage, and even worse, nobody wants food poisoning. So, let’s break down how to make sure your chicken sausages are cooked through and safe to eat.
Internal Temperature is Key
The gold standard for checking doneness is using a meat thermometer. It takes all the guesswork out of the equation. You want your chicken sausages to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the sausage, being careful not to touch the bottom of the air fryer basket.
Why 165°F?
This magic number is the temperature at which harmful bacteria are reliably destroyed, ensuring your sausages are safe to eat. Lower temperatures might leave some bacteria lingering, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Don’t play around with food safety – get it right!
Visual Cues: What to Look For
While a meat thermometer is the most accurate method, you can also look for visual cues to assess doneness. Properly cooked chicken sausages will have a nice, browned exterior. The inside should be opaque and no longer pink. If you cut into a sausage and the juices run clear, that’s another good sign.
Don’t Rely on Visual Cues Alone
While visual cues can be helpful, they shouldn’t be your only method for checking doneness, especially if you’re new to air frying. They can be a little subjective, and it’s easy to misinterpret them. Always double-check with a meat thermometer to be absolutely certain.
The Touch Test: Proceed with Caution
Some folks like to use the touch test – gently pressing on the sausage to gauge its firmness. A cooked sausage will feel firm and springy, while an undercooked one will feel soft and squishy. However, this method is the least reliable, so use it with caution and always confirm with a thermometer.
Why is the Touch Test Less Reliable?
The firmness of a sausage can be affected by factors other than doneness, such as the sausage’s fat content and the specific recipe. It’s easy to mistake a slightly undercooked sausage for a perfectly cooked one based on touch alone, so don’t risk it. Use your thermometer!
Rest Time: Let it Rest
Once your chicken sausages reach 165°F, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the sausage, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Why Resting Matters
When you cook meat, the juices tend to concentrate in the center. Resting allows these juices to spread back out, resulting in a more evenly cooked and juicy sausage. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
Different Sausage Sizes and Thicknesses: Adjust Accordingly
Keep in mind that thicker sausages will take longer to cook than thinner ones. Similarly, larger sausages will require more time in the air fryer. Always check the internal temperature of the thickest sausage to ensure everything is cooked through. You might need to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the specific sausages you’re using.
A Handy Table for Reference
| Sausage Size | Approximate Cooking Time (at 400°F) |
|---|---|
| Small/Thin | 8-10 minutes |
| Medium | 10-12 minutes |
| Large/Thick | 12-15 minutes |
Remember, these are just estimates. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
Storing Leftovers Safely
If you have leftover cooked chicken sausage, make sure to cool it down completely before storing it in the refrigerator. You can store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat them, use the air fryer, oven, or microwave, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F again before eating. Don’t leave cooked sausages at room temperature for more than two hours, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
Serving and Enjoying Your Air-Fried Chicken Sausages
Alright, so you’ve got these beautifully browned, juicy chicken sausages fresh out of the air fryer. Now comes the fun part: figuring out how to turn them into a truly satisfying meal. The great thing about chicken sausage is its versatility. It plays well with so many different flavors and cuisines, so let’s explore some delicious serving options.
Quick Bites and Snacks
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Air-fried chicken sausages are fantastic on their own as a quick snack or appetizer. Slice them up and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. You can also thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and small mozzarella balls for a fun and colorful appetizer.
Breakfast Champions
Start your day with a protein-packed boost! Chicken sausages are a wonderful addition to any breakfast spread. Slice them and serve alongside scrambled eggs, pancakes, or French toast. Or, get creative and create breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your perfectly air-fried sausages.
Sandwiches and Wraps
Take your lunchtime sandwich game up a notch with air-fried chicken sausage. They add a juicy and flavorful punch to any sub, hoagie, or wrap. Think classic combinations like sausage and peppers, or try something new with pesto, provolone, and roasted red peppers.
Salads with a Savory Twist
Add some heartiness to your salads with sliced air-fried chicken sausage. It pairs particularly well with robust greens like kale or spinach. A simple vinaigrette, some crumbled feta cheese, and a handful of toasted nuts can complete the dish. You can even create a pasta salad with chicken sausage, veggies, and a light dressing.
Pasta Perfection
Chicken sausage is a fantastic addition to pasta dishes. Slice it up and toss it with your favorite pasta, sauce, and vegetables. A creamy pesto sauce, a vibrant tomato sauce, or even a simple garlic and oil sauce can all be elevated with the addition of flavorful chicken sausage.
Bowl Meals for a Balanced Bite
Build a nutritious and satisfying bowl meal around your air-fried chicken sausage. Start with a base of quinoa, rice, or even roasted sweet potatoes. Add your sausages, some roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce. You can even add a dollop of hummus or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor and protein.
Side Dish Sensations and Flavor Pairings
Thinking beyond the main event? Air-fried chicken sausage makes a fantastic side dish to complement a variety of meals. Here’s a table showcasing some delightful pairings:
| Main Dish | Suggested Chicken Sausage Flavor | Complementary Sides |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Chicken | Apple & Sage or Italian | Roasted Root Vegetables, Mashed Potatoes |
| Grilled Salmon | Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil or Andouille | Quinoa Salad, Asparagus |
| Pork Tenderloin | Maple or Spicy Jalapeño | Braised Greens, Cornbread |
Experiment with different flavor combinations and find your perfect pairings. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sauces and sides. Everything from a simple Dijon mustard to a complex chimichurri sauce can elevate your air-fried chicken sausage experience. Enjoy!
Cleaning Your Air Fryer After Cooking Chicken Sausages
Cleaning your air fryer after whipping up some delicious chicken sausages doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little know-how and a few simple steps, you can keep your appliance sparkling and ready for your next culinary adventure. Here’s a breakdown of how to tackle post-sausage cleanup like a pro.
Unplug and Cool Down
Safety first! Always unplug your air fryer before cleaning. Let the appliance cool down completely. Touching a hot air fryer can lead to burns, so patience is key. A cool air fryer is also much easier to clean effectively.
Remove the Basket and Tray
Carefully take out the basket and tray (or any other removable components your model has). These are the workhorses of your air fryer and often bear the brunt of the cooking mess. Set them aside for a quick soak.
Wipe Down the Interior
While the basket and tray are soaking, grab a damp, non-abrasive cloth or sponge. Give the inside of the air fryer a good wipe-down. This will remove any stray crumbs or grease splatters. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer.
Soaking the Basket and Tray
Fill your sink with warm, soapy water. Submerge the basket and tray and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will loosen any stuck-on food particles and make scrubbing a breeze.
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub
After soaking, use a soft sponge or non-abrasive brush to gently scrub the basket and tray. Focus on any areas where food residue might be clinging on. For stubborn bits, a little baking soda paste can work wonders. Just mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the affected areas, and gently scrub.
Rinse and Dry
Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness of the basket and tray, rinse them thoroughly under warm water. Ensure all soap residue is removed. Shake off excess water and then dry them completely with a clean towel. Proper drying prevents water spots and helps maintain the non-stick coating.
Cleaning the Heating Element
Don’t forget the heating element! Carefully wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid getting it excessively wet. Be sure it’s completely dry before using the air fryer again.
Dealing with Stubborn Grease Buildup (Deep Clean)
Over time, your air fryer might develop some stubborn grease buildup. For a deeper clean, try this method: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a small bowl. Place the mixture in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and run it for about 5-10 minutes. The vinegar steam will help loosen the grease. Let the air fryer cool down completely, then wipe down the interior with a damp cloth. You can also use a baking soda paste to scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Tips for Easy Cleaning
For easier cleanup, consider using parchment paper or air fryer liners when cooking. These create a barrier between your food and the air fryer basket, minimizing mess. Just be sure to choose liners that are specifically designed for air fryers and that allow for proper air circulation.
Cleaning Frequency
How often you deep clean your air fryer depends on how frequently you use it. For regular use (a few times a week), a deep clean every couple of weeks is a good idea. If you use it less often, a monthly deep clean should suffice. Always wipe down the interior and clean the basket and tray after each use.
Cleaning Solutions
Stick to mild dish soap, warm water, and non-abrasive cleaning tools. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer. A baking soda paste can be a great natural cleaning solution for tackling stubborn grease and grime.
| Cleaning Supply | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Warm soapy water | Soaking and general cleaning |
| Non-abrasive sponge/cloth | Wiping and scrubbing |
| Baking soda paste | Stubborn grease and grime |
| White vinegar | Deep cleaning and grease removal |
Tips and Tricks for Air Fryer Chicken Sausage Success
Preheating Your Air Fryer
Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer is key for perfectly cooked chicken sausage. It ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior. Aim for a temperature around 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the air fryer to reach the optimal temperature before you introduce the sausages, preventing them from steaming instead of crisping up.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Resist the urge to cram all your sausages into the air fryer at once. Overcrowding restricts airflow, leading to unevenly cooked sausages. Some might be burnt, while others remain undercooked. Work in batches if necessary. Give the sausages enough space to breathe and allow the hot air to circulate freely around them. This will guarantee a beautiful, even browning on all sides.
Shaking Things Up
For consistently golden-brown sausages, give the basket a good shake or flip the sausages halfway through the cooking process. This ensures all sides are exposed to the hot air, promoting even cooking and that desirable crispiness we all love. A simple shake or flip is all it takes to prevent hot spots and ensure every bite is perfectly cooked.
Internal Temperature is Key
Don’t rely solely on visual cues. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken sausages reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they’re cooked through and safe to eat. It eliminates the guesswork and ensures you get juicy, perfectly cooked sausages every time. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the sausage for the most accurate reading.
Adding a Touch of Oil (Optional)
While not strictly necessary, a light spritz of oil can enhance the browning and crispiness of your chicken sausages. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or grapeseed oil. A light coating is all you need; too much oil can create smoke and make the sausages greasy. If your sausages are already pre-cooked, you can likely skip this step altogether.
Cooking Time Guidelines
Cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of your sausages, as well as your specific air fryer model. As a general guideline, cook chicken sausages at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-12 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway through. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they’ve reached 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer chicken sausages are incredibly versatile. Serve them on buns with your favorite toppings, slice them into salads, or pair them with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They’re also delicious on their own as a quick and easy snack. Get creative and explore different flavor combinations!
Choosing the Right Chicken Sausage
The quality of your chicken sausage directly impacts the final result. Look for sausages made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Consider exploring different flavor profiles, from classic Italian to spicy chorizo. Reading labels and choosing sausages with lower sodium and fat content can also contribute to a healthier meal.
Air Fryer Chicken Sausage Cooking Chart
Here’s a handy chart to guide you:
| Sausage Size | Approximate Cooking Time (400°F/200°C) |
|---|---|
| Small/Thin | 8-10 minutes |
| Medium | 10-12 minutes |
| Large/Thick | 12-15 minutes |
This chart provides a general guideline. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the sausages have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust cooking time as needed depending on your specific air fryer model and the thickness of your sausages. Pre-cooked sausages will require less cooking time, usually around 5-7 minutes to heat through and crisp up. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Experimenting with different brands and flavors of chicken sausage can also influence cooking time. Some brands might contain more moisture or have different casing thicknesses. It’s always best to start with the lower end of the suggested cooking time and add more time in increments as needed. This helps prevent overcooking and ensures you achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken sausages every single time. Enjoy!
Cooking Chicken Sausage in an Air Fryer: A Simple Guide
Air frying chicken sausage is a quick and easy way to achieve deliciously crispy results without the added fat of traditional pan-frying. This method delivers a satisfying snap on the outside while maintaining a juicy interior. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking, eliminating the need to constantly turn the sausages and reducing the overall cooking time. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch, the air fryer offers a convenient and healthy way to enjoy flavorful chicken sausage.
People Also Ask About Cooking Chicken Sausage in an Air Fryer
General Cooking Time and Temperature
How long to cook chicken sausage in an air fryer?
Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the sausage and your desired level of crispiness. Generally, cooking at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes is a good starting point. For thinner sausages, 8-10 minutes may suffice. For thicker sausages, you might need up to 15 minutes. It’s always best to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
What temperature should I cook chicken sausage in an air fryer?
A temperature of 400°F (200°C) is generally recommended for cooking chicken sausage in an air fryer. This temperature allows the sausages to cook thoroughly and develop a crispy exterior without burning. You can adjust the temperature slightly higher or lower depending on your air fryer model and desired level of browning.
Preparation and Techniques
Do you need to preheat the air fryer for chicken sausage?
While preheating isn’t strictly necessary, it’s highly recommended. Preheating the air fryer for 3-5 minutes ensures that the sausages start cooking immediately upon entering the hot environment, contributing to a more even cook and crispier skin.
Should I spray chicken sausage with oil before air frying?
Chicken sausage often contains enough fat to crisp up nicely in the air fryer without added oil. However, lightly coating the sausages with olive oil or cooking spray can enhance browning and add a bit of extra crispiness. Avoid using excessive oil, as it can create smoke and potentially lead to uneven cooking.
How do I prevent chicken sausage from drying out in the air fryer?
Overcooking is the primary culprit for dry chicken sausage. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Once the sausage reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s fully cooked. You can also avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can impede proper air circulation and lead to uneven cooking. Ensuring adequate space between the sausages allows for optimal browning and helps retain moisture.