Crispy and Juicy Frozen Sausage Patties Made Simple in the Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a quick, tasty breakfast or snack, processing frozen sausage patties in the air fryer are a fantastic choice.
I love using air fryer to cook them because it’s fast, less messy than frying on the stove, and gives that perfect crispy edge with juicy centers.
Cooking sausage patties from frozen is super easy—you don’t need to thaw them, and the air fryer handles everything beautifully.
I suggest giving the patties a light spray of oil for extra crispiness, but it’s totally optional depending on your preference.
While cooking, turning the patties halfway helps them brown evenly. You’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful patties with minimal effort and cleanup.
Quick Cooking Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 minute | 10–15 minutes | 11–16 minutes | Breakfast / Snack | American | 1–4 |
Ingredients for Frozen Sausage Patties
| Ingredient | Quantity (1 Serving) | Quantity (2 Servings) | Quantity (4 Servings) | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen sausage patties | 2 patties | 4 patties | 8 patties | Frozen breakfast sausage links, turkey sausage patties |
| Cooking spray or oil (optional) | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | 4 tsp | Olive oil spray, avocado oil spray |
Cooking Instruments Needed
| Instrument | Purpose | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Air fryer | Cooking patties evenly and quickly | Skillet, oven with convection |
| Tongs | Flipping patties during cooking | Spatula |
| Cooking spray or brush | Optional oil application | Pastry brush |
How Long to Cook Frozen Sausage Patties in Air Fryer?
Cooking time varies depending on your air fryer model:
- Basket air fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven-style air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C), cook 12-15 minutes, flip once.
- Compact air fryer: Preheat to 370°F (188°C), cook 11-13 minutes, turn halfway.
Check patties a couple of minutes before the minimum time to avoid overcooking. Patties should be browned and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
How to Make Frozen Sausage Patties in Air Fryer
Starting with a clean air fryer and preheating improves cooking results.
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Patties
Place frozen sausage patties in a single layer in the basket. For extra crispiness, lightly spray with oil.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. Flip the patties halfway through for even browning and cooking.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Make sure the patties are browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to confirm they reach 160°F (71°C). Cook longer if needed.
Serving and Decoration Tips
Serve sausage patties warm with breakfast favorites like eggs, toast, or pancakes. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
For sandwiches, add melted cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a satisfying meal.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Sausage Patties: Add crushed red pepper flakes before cooking.
- Herbed Patties: Sprinkle dried thyme or sage on patties before air frying.
- Turkey or Chicken Sausage: Use leaner sausage alternatives for a healthier option.
- Maple Glazed: Brush cooked patties with a little maple syrup for a sweet-savory twist.
Storing Tips
- Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving to keep patties from becoming soggy.
- Freeze uncooked patties in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Extra Tips for Best Air Fryer Results
- Don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure hot air circulates evenly.
- Flip patties halfway through cooking for uniform browning.
- Use a light spray of oil to help crisp the surface without excess fat.
- Clean the air fryer basket after each use to prevent residue and smoke.
- Choose an oil with a high smoke point like avocado or canola spray.
Common Mistakes, Solutions & Prevention
| Mistake | Cause | Solution | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patties are dry | Overcooked or high heat | Lower temperature, reduce cooking time | Check doneness early |
| Uneven cooking | Not flipping halfway | Flip halfway through cooking | Turn food during cooking |
| Undercooked inside | Not cooked long enough | Cook longer, check internal temp | Use meat thermometer |
| Sticking to basket | No oil or residue buildup | Spray basket lightly, clean regularly | Use oil spray and clean basket |
Air Fryer Notes for Frozen Sausage Patties
Air fryers vary widely—basket models cook faster, so watch your time. Oven-style air fryers might need extra minutes and turning.
Smaller models require smaller batches for best results. Adjust cooking time based on patty thickness and your specific air fryer’s performance.
FAQs About Cooking Frozen Sausage Patties in Air Fryer
Q1: Can I cook frozen sausage patties without preheating the air fryer?
A1: Yes, but preheating helps ensure even cooking and crisp texture.
Q2: How do I check if sausage patties are fully cooked?
A2: Use a meat thermometer; internal temperature should be 160°F (71°C).
Q3: Can I cook different types of sausage patties together?
A3: It’s best to cook similar size and type patties together for even cooking.
Q4: What if my patties stick to the air fryer basket?
A4: Lightly spray the basket with oil before cooking and clean regularly.
Q5: Can I freeze cooked sausage patties?
A5: Yes, store cooked patties in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Let’s Make and Enjoy Crispy Frozen Sausage Patties in Air Fryer!
Try this simple air fryer method to cook frozen sausage patties quickly with minimal fuss. It’s a great way to enjoy crispy, juicy patties any day of the week.
Feel free to share your tips or favorite pairings in the comments below!
