This air fryer smoked sausage costs $1.73 total, or about $0.87 per serving, and takes under 10 minutes from start to finish with minimal cleanup.
The circulating hot air crisps the outside while keeping the inside tender, which makes it a quick option for weeknights or lunches.
What this costs
These are estimated costs based on typical U.S. supermarket store-brand prices in September 2026. Prices vary by store and region, so treat them as a guide.
| Ingredient | Amount used | Pack size | Pack price | Recipe cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoked sausage | 6 oz | 13 oz package | $3.50 | $1.62 |
| Olive oil | 1 teaspoon | 16 fl oz bottle | $6.00 | $0.06 |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | 26 oz container | $1.50 | $0.02 |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | 4 oz container | $3.00 | $0.03 |
| Total recipe cost | $1.73 | |||
| Cost per serving | 2 servings | $0.87 |
Ingredient cost = pack price ÷ pack quantity × amount used. Cost per serving = total recipe cost ÷ servings.
Ingredient Notes and Cheaper Swaps
Smoked Sausage
Use a pre-cooked smoked sausage, like kielbasa or a beef/pork blend; it only needs to be heated through and browned. Store-brand options are usually cheaper than name brands. Larger packages can be frozen in smaller portions. To use another portion in a vegetable-focused dinner, make smothered cabbage with sausage.
Olive Oil
Any neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola, works in place of olive oil, or use cooking spray for a lighter coating.
How to Make Air Fryer Smoked Sausage Step by Step
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F.
Lightly coat the smoked sausage links with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket; for a larger batch, cook in batches.
Air fry for 6 minutes, flipping the sausages with tongs about 3 minutes in. They are done when slightly browned outside and heated through to an internal temperature of 145°F.
Remove the sausages with tongs and let them rest for a minute or two before slicing or serving whole. For full quantities and detailed steps, refer to the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between each link so air can circulate and crisp them.
- Adjust Timing: Air fryer models vary. Check the sausage the first time you make it and adjust the cooking time by a minute or two if needed.
- Check Internal Temperature: While pre-cooked, ensure the sausage is heated through to 145°F for food safety.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
Storing: Leftover air fryer smoked sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Cool it completely before refrigerating.
Freezing: Cooked smoked sausage freezes well. Freeze cooled links in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. The microwave or stovetop also work, but the air fryer restores more of the crisp texture.
Serving Ideas and Variations
- Simple Sandwich: Slice and serve on a bun with mustard.
- Alongside Veggies: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or a simple green salad.
- Sheet Pan Meal: Add some quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the air fryer alongside the sausage.
- Budget Bowls: Serve over a bed of rice or couscous with a drizzle of hot sauce. When you would rather have potatoes than grains, try mashed potatoes with sausage. For more budget-friendly ideas, check out other recipes on The Thrifty Skillet.
Air Fryer Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F.
- Lightly coat the smoked sausage links with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the seasoned sausage links in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 6 minutes, flipping the sausages halfway through cooking (at about 3 minutes).
- Cook until the sausages are golden brown and heated through to an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Carefully remove from the air fryer with tongs and serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Cooked sausage can be frozen for 2-3 months; thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of smoked sausage?
Yes, this recipe works best with pre-cooked smoked sausage varieties like kielbasa, beef, or pork smoked sausage links. Avoid raw sausages that require longer cooking times.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
While some air fryers don’t strictly require preheating, preheating is recommended for this recipe. Preheating ensures the sausage starts cooking immediately and helps achieve a better, crispier exterior.
What if my air fryer doesn’t have a 360°F setting?
If your air fryer doesn’t have a 360°F setting, you can use 350°F or 375°F. Monitor the sausage closely and adjust the cooking time by a minute or two as needed to ensure it’s heated through and nicely browned.
Can I cook frozen smoked sausage in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw frozen smoked sausage in the refrigerator first for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes, checking frequently to ensure it’s heated through to 145°F.
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