Air Fryer Italian Sausage (Juicy & Easy!)

If you love juicy, flavorful Italian sausage, then making it in the air fryer is the way to go! It’s quick, easy, and mess-free—no splattering grease to clean up. Whether you’re cooking mild, sweet, or spicy Italian sausage, the air fryer gives you perfect results in just 20 minutes. It’s the ultimate fuss-free way to get a delicious meal on the table, whether you’re making sausage subs, pasta, or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound Trader Joe’s Italian Sausage
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red or green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil

Full Ingredients in Recipe Card Below

How to Cook Italian Sausage in the Air Fryer

Step 1 – Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 360°F and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.

Step 2 – Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to catch drippings and minimize cleanup.

Note: Do not place the parchment paper in the air fryer without any food on it, as this can cause the paper to blow around and possibly catch fire.H3: Step 3 – Arrange Sausages in the Basket

Step 3 – Arrange Sausages in the Basket

• Place the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Step 4 – Cook the Sausages

Cook sausages for 5 more minutes until fully done.

Set the timer for 20 minutes.

Flip sausages after 15 minutes of cooking.

Step 5 – Check for Doneness

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy

Let sausages rest for 2 minutes before slicing.

How to Cook Peppers and Onions

Skillet Sauté Method (Recommended)

• Heat 1 Tbsp. of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add sliced peppers and onions.
• Sauté for 15 minutes, stirring often, until softened and caramelized.

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions Method

While this is an option, I personally prefer the sautéed method for a richer flavor and better texture.

After removing the sausages, place sliced peppers and onions in the air fryer basket.

Cook at 360°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage

• For crispier skin: Cook at 400°F for the last 2 minutes.
• Prevent smoking: Add 2 tablespoons of water to the air fryer drawer.
• Cooking from frozen? Increase cook time by 5-6 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Italian Sausage Subs

• Serve sausages in a toasted hoagie roll with marinara sauce and melted cheese.

Over Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce

• Slice sausages and toss with pasta, garlic butter, and Parmesan.

As Part of a Breakfast Hash

• Dice and fry with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.

Pairings and Related Recipes

• Air Fryer Green Beans
• Air Fryer Zucchini
• Instant Pot Rice Pilaf

Storage and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers

• Let sausages cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Best Way to Reheat Air Fryer Sausage

Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water.

Air fryer: 350°F for 4-5 minutes.

Microwave: 30-45 seconds per link.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 sausage link
• Calories: 280
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 14g
• Carbs: 1g

Making Air Fryer Italian Sausage is a quick, juicy, and flavorful way to get dinner on the table with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it in a sub, over pasta, or with veggies, it’s a simple and delicious meal option!

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Kitchen Essentials and Items Used

Cosori Air Fryer 5.8 Quart
Thermopro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer
DALSTRONG Nakiri Asian Vegetable Knife – Gladiator Series
Niman Ranch Pork, Sausage Spicy Italian Links