EASY AIR FRYER SAUSAGE ROLLS

Sausage rolls are a beloved snack that never fails to please, whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or craving something savory. What if you could make them even easier and healthier without sacrificing any of that deliciousness? Enter the air fryer—a kitchen marvel that crisps up these tasty treats to perfection with minimal oil and maximum flavor. In this detailed guide, I’ll show you how to create easy, golden-brown sausage rolls in your air fryer that are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

Table of Contents

For the Sausage Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) sausage meat or pork sausages (casings removed)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on your sausage’s seasoning)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy flavor)

For the Pastry:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Equipment:

  • Air fryer
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife
  • Baking sheet (for preparing rolls)
  • Pastry brush

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Filling

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sausage meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and Dijon mustard (if using). Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The breadcrumbs and egg will help bind the mixture and keep the filling moist.
  2. Shape the Sausage Filling: Divide the sausage mixture into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a long sausage shape, roughly the length of your puff pastry sheet. Set aside.
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Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

  1. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases and to thin it slightly if it’s too thick. You want it to be about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Cut the Pastry: Cut the pastry sheet in half lengthwise, creating two long strips. Each strip will encase one portion of the sausage filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Sausage Rolls

  1. Place the Sausage Filling: Lay one of the sausage rolls along the long edge of each pastry strip. Ensure that the sausage filling is evenly distributed and fits snugly.
  2. Roll the Pastry: Carefully roll the pastry over the sausage filling, tucking it in as you go to create a tight roll. Press the seam gently to seal it. If necessary, brush a little beaten egg along the edge of the pastry to help it stick.
  3. Cut into Pieces: Using a sharp knife, cut each long roll into smaller pieces, about 2 inches in length. This size is perfect for bite-sized sausage rolls that cook evenly in the air fryer.

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  2. Egg Wash and Topping: Place the sausage rolls on a baking sheet. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color as they cook. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Air Fry the Sausage Rolls

  1. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the sausage rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
  2. Cook: Air fry the sausage rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The pastry should be puffed and the sausage filling cooked through.
  3. Check for Doneness: To ensure the sausage is fully cooked, cut one roll open to check that it is no longer pink inside. If needed, you can return them to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Cool Slightly: Once cooked, transfer the sausage rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly. This will help maintain their crispiness.
  2. Serve: Serve the sausage rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, or a spicy aioli. They are also delicious on their own!

Tips for Perfect Sausage Rolls:

  • Puff Pastry: Make sure the puff pastry is cold when you roll it out; this helps in getting those perfect flaky layers.
  • Sausage Meat: You can experiment with different types of sausage meat like chicken, turkey, or a mix of pork and beef for varying flavors.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the sausage rolls and freeze them before cooking. Just pop them into the air fryer straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time by an extra 5 minutes.

Variations:

  • Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls: Add shredded cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the sausage mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Spicy Sausage Rolls: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños into the sausage filling for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian Sausage Rolls: Substitute the sausage meat with a plant-based sausage alternative or a mixture of cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, and finely diced vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Making sausage rolls in the air fryer is not only easy but also results in a snack that’s wonderfully crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This method saves time and oil, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste. Whether you’re serving them as party appetizers, a snack, or a quick meal, these air fryer sausage rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the simplicity of this recipe and savor every delicious bite!