How to Cook Aidells Sausage in an Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Aidells sausage in an air fryer is a quick, easy and healthy way to enjoy these flavorful sausages. Air frying provides a crisp exterior while keeping the interior juicy without the need for added oil or fat. This cooking method brings out the best in Aidells sausage, allowing the spices and flavors to shine.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the entire process of cooking Aidells sausage in an air fryer step-by-step. We will cover everything from choosing the right Aidells sausage, preparing the sausages, setting the ideal time and temperature, and serving ideas Follow these tips and techniques for perfectly cooked Aidells sausage from your air fryer every time

Choosing the Right Aidells Sausage

Aidells offers a wide variety of sausage flavors and styles to choose from. When selecting your Aidells sausage for the air fryer, opt for links or fully-cooked sausages. Some great options include

• Chicken and Apple Sausage
• Chicken Sausage with Sundried Tomatoes and Basil
• Fully Cooked Chicken Sausage Links
• Fully Cooked Andouille Chicken Sausage

The chicken-based sausages are ideal for the air fryer as they tend to be lower in fat than traditional pork sausages. The leaner chicken sausages will cook up evenly and crisp effectively in the air fryer without the need for extra oil.

Preparing the Sausages

Before air frying, the sausages need a bit of prep:

• Remove sausage from packaging and lay them out on a plate or cutting board. Visually inspect for any defects.

• Poke holes along the sausage casings using a fork or knife. This will allow fat to drain easily during cooking.

• Brush lightly with oil (optional) A quick brush of oil helps promote browning and a crispy exterior Use an oil with a high smoke point like avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil.

• Add any extra seasoning (optional). If desired, you can rub on any extra spices, herbs, or seasonings to add flavor.

Setting the Time and Temperature

When it comes to air frying Aidells sausage, a temperature of 380°F to 400°F delivers the best results. Any hotter may cause overcooking, while cooler temperatures don’t crisp up the casings enough.

Cook times can vary based on the thickness and size of your sausages. For fully cooked chicken sausage links, the ideal air fryer cook times are:

• 12-14 minutes for standard sized sausages
• 10-12 minutes for thinner sausages
• 15-18 minutes for jumbo sausages

Be sure to flip the sausages halfway through the cook time to promote even cooking. Also keep a close eye on doneness at the end to avoid overcooking.

Step-by-Step Air Fryer Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect air fryer Aidells sausage every time:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F – 400°F for 3-5 minutes.

2. Prep sausages by poking holes in casings and lightly brushing with oil (optional).

3. Place sausages in air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding.

4. Cook for half the time (6-9 minutes depending on size). Flip sausages.

5. Cook remaining time (another 6-9 minutes) until browned and sizzling.

6. Check internal temp with a meat thermometer if needed. Temperature should reach 165°F.

7. Let rest 1-2 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving up your air fried Aidells sausage. Here are just a few delicious ideas:

• Split a toasted pretzel bun and fill with sausage, sautéed peppers and onion, and mustard.

• Toss cooked sausage with roasted potatoes and Brussels sprouts.

• Serve over creamy polenta or grits for breakfast.

• Make a sausage and vegetable sheet pan meal.

• Mix into macaroni and cheese.

• Add to a rice bowl with stir fried veggies.

• Stuff into tacos or burritos with all the fixings.

Any way you serve them, air fryer Aidells sausages make for quick, tasty meals the whole family will devour.

Cooking Alternatives

While the air fryer is an excellent way to cook Aidells sausage, you can use other cooking methods with great success too:

• Grill: Gets great char marks and flavor. Use medium heat.

• Pan Sear: Creates a nice brown crust. Use medium-high heat with a bit of oil.

• Broil: Quick and convenient in the oven. Place 4-6 inches under heating element.

• Bake: Allows you to cook up larger batches. Bake at 400°F on a foil-lined sheet pan.

No matter which hands-off cooking approach you use, adjusting the time based on thickness will ensure your Aidells sausages turn out juicy and perfectly done.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Like any cooked sausage, air fried Aidells sausage should be stored properly to maximize freshness and safety.

• Let sausages cool completely before storing.

• Refrigerate in a sealed container for 3-4 days.

• Freeze for longer storage (2-3 months). Thaw overnight in fridge before using.

To reheat, you have a couple good options:

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 320°F for 4-5 minutes.

• Pan Fry: Reheat in skillet over medium-low, turning occasionally.

• Oven: Warm in oven at 300°F for 4-6 minutes.

Only reheat fully cooked sausages to 165°F or hotter before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

Here are some top tips for achieving the best air fried Aidells sausage:

• Pat sausages dry before air frying for optimal browning.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space between sausages.

• Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. Stop cooking at 165°F.

• Let sausages rest 1-2 minutes before cutting into them.

• Brush sausages with oil or broth for enhanced flavor.

• Play around with rubs, glazes, and toppings to customize.

With this complete guide to cooking Aidells sausage in an air fryer, you’ll be able to achieve flavorful, juicy results each time. Say hello to quick, easy sausage meals that your entire family will request again and again. Enjoy!