Getting sausages spot-on in the air fryer is simpler than you think — and quicker than the oven. Whether you're cooking classic British sausages, chipolatas, or meat-free alternatives, most varieties are ready in just 10 to 15 minutes at 180°C. The trick is spacing: give them room to breathe so the heat can circulate evenly, turning once halfway through for a crisp, golden finish all over.
Cooking time depends on thickness and type. Slim chipolatas take around 10 minutes, while chunkier links like beef sausages or seasoned grillers may need up to 14–15 minutes. Always check they're fully cooked inside — the juices should run clear, and the centre should be piping hot. If you're new to air frying, our Air Fryer Conversion Chart helps translate any recipe to air fryer perfection, with no guesswork.
Start by preheating your air fryer to 180°C — this only takes a few minutes and helps the sausages cook evenly. Lightly oil the basket if needed, then lay your sausages out in a single layer. There’s no need for turning them every few seconds — just flip once halfway through the cooking time for best results. You’ll get that lovely crisp exterior without drying them out.
If you're using frozen sausages, there's no need to thaw. Just add a couple of minutes to the cook time and shake the basket halfway to prevent sticking. For even more inspiration, check out our full recipe archive, including ideas like Air Fryer Chicken Wings, Sweet Potato Cubes, or Vegetable Tray Bakes — all delicious alongside your sizzling sausages.
Don’t overcrowd the basket — sausages need airflow to crisp properly. If cooking more than a few, batch it. Give them a quick turn halfway through to get colour on both sides, and consider a light spray of oil if your sausages are lean. Want a full meal in one go? Toss in some baby potatoes or frozen vegetables at the same time.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the inside hits 75°C — that’s the sweet spot for safe and juicy results. Rest the sausages for a minute or two after cooking to let the juices settle. Want more ideas for what to serve with them? Our Comfort Food and Potatoes sections have plenty of tasty pairings.
Yes — and they turn out beautifully. Pop them in straight from the freezer, add 2–3 extra minutes to the standard time, and flip halfway. There’s no need to pre-boil or defrost, and no greasy splatter to clean up. This method works for all types, whether they’re seasoned grillers, plain links, or spiced meat alternatives.
Just make sure they don’t stick together in a frozen lump — separate them if needed. Check doneness by slicing one open or using a thermometer. If the centre’s still pink, give them another 2 minutes. You’ll be surprised how crispy and well-cooked they are, without drying out. Explore our Frozen Foods section for more quick freezer-to-fryer dinners.
If you love sausages in the air fryer, you’ll want to explore these too:
You can also browse by Recipe Category or Tag to suit your next meal.
We test everything so you don’t have to. Whether you're new to air frying or looking to perfect your timings, AirFryerRecipe.co.uk has all the tools. Our Knowledge Library is full of smart tips, and our growing archive of recipes is built for everyday UK kitchens — no over-complication, just flavour.
Need help along the way? Visit our Support Page for guidance, or explore our curated Air Fryer Brands to find your perfect fit. Want to learn more about cleaning, maintenance or model types? Try the Air Fryer Cleaner section too.
