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Effortless Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes: Your New Weeknight Favorite

Discover the ultimate solution for busy weeknights with this incredibly simple yet satisfying recipe for Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes. This one-pan wonder combines perfectly seasoned baby potatoes, aromatic onions, vibrant bell peppers, and savory smoked sausage, all cooked to crispy perfection in your air fryer. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal on the dinner table that the whole family will adore. It’s the ideal dish for those evenings when time is short but you still crave a homemade, delicious meal. Get ready to add this quick sausage and potato recipe to your regular rotation – you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes Recipe

If you’ve been searching for an easy, efficient, and utterly delicious way to feed your family, look no further. This Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe checks all the boxes. Not only is it incredibly fast to prepare, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner, but it’s also wonderfully hearty and satisfying. The magic of the air fryer ensures that your ingredients cook evenly, achieving that desirable crispy texture on the potatoes and a juicy tenderness in the sausage, all with minimal oil.

Beyond its speed and incredible flavor, this dish is a dream for busy individuals and families. The fact that it’s an air fryer meal means minimal cleanup – usually just one basket to wash! Plus, these savory sausage and potatoes make fantastic leftovers. Imagine having a ready-made, flavorful lunch for the next day, or even a delightful breakfast with the addition of a fried egg. This recipe truly offers convenience without compromising on taste, making it a staple for anyone who values both efficiency and deliciousness in their kitchen.

The Magic of Air Frying for Quick & Healthy Meals

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a fantastic way to enjoy crispy, flavorful foods with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. It’s truly a game-changer for preparing healthy air fryer dishes quickly. For recipes like this Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes, it excels by circulating hot air around the food, mimicking the results of deep-frying but in a much healthier manner. This method ensures that potatoes become wonderfully crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, while vegetables maintain their vibrant color and slight bite, and sausages cook through perfectly with a delightful snap.

Beyond the superior texture and reduced fat content, the air fryer offers unparalleled convenience. It preheats faster than a conventional oven, cooks food in a fraction of the time, and clean-up is often as simple as a quick wash of the air fryer basket. For those committed to integrating more easy air fryer meals into their routine, this sausage and potato recipe highlights just how versatile and efficient this appliance can be. It’s perfect for busy schedules, allowing you to put a wholesome, complete meal on the table without the fuss or lengthy cooking times. You’ll find yourself reaching for your air fryer for countless quick dinners once you experience its benefits.

Meal Prep Made Easy: Air Fryer Country-Style Sausage & Potatoes

This Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe isn’t just for immediate dinners; it’s also an excellent candidate for meal prepping. Whether you’re planning for lunches throughout the week or need quick grab-and-go options, this dish adapts beautifully. You can easily prepare your ingredients ahead of time, assembling the spice blend and chopping the vegetables, so they are ready for a quick air fryer session when you’re pressed for time.

Alternatively, cook a large batch of this hearty meal during your Sunday meal prep session. Once cooled, store it in airtight containers, and simply reheat individual portions in your air fryer, microwave, or on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal. This approach ensures you always have a delicious, healthy option available, reducing the temptation for less healthy takeout. Having a pre-cooked air fryer sausage and potato dish on hand can be a lifesaver during a hectic week, ensuring everyone in the family can enjoy a wholesome meal without extra effort. It’s a versatile solution for feeding yourself and your loved ones nutritious meals consistently.

Ingredients for Your Delicious Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes

The beauty of this Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe lies in its simplicity and the readily available ingredients. With just a handful of basic items, you can create a family-friendly meal bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Baby Potatoes: These small wonders are perfect for the air fryer. Their size allows them to cook quickly and achieve a lovely crispy exterior. Ensure they are quartered for even cooking. Small red or Yukon gold potatoes also work wonderfully for this dish.
Onion: A medium yellow onion, cut into wedges, adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish as it caramelizes slightly in the air fryer. White or red onions can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
Bell Pepper: Sliced red bell peppers not only add a beautiful pop of color but also a fresh, sweet crunch. Feel free to use orange, yellow, or even green bell peppers, or a mix, for added visual appeal and flavor variety.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my preferred choice for its flavor and healthy fats, but any cooking oil with a high smoke point (like avocado oil) will work well to coat the vegetables and spices.
Flavorful Spices: A robust blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt comes together to create a delightful and aromatic coating for your potatoes and vegetables. This combination ensures every bite is seasoned to perfection.
Sausage: I typically use smoked chorizo for its rich, spicy flavor, but other fully cooked, smoked varieties like Andouille sausage or Polska Kielbasa are excellent choices. The key here is using *smoked* sausage, as it’s already cooked, significantly reducing the overall cooking time and making this a truly quick meal. If you opt for raw sausage, please refer to the tips section for adjusting cook times and ensuring food safety.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is an optional but highly recommended garnish. It adds a touch of brightness and a vibrant green color that elevates the finished dish. Fresh cilantro is another fantastic herb to consider for a different twist.

For the complete list of precise measurements and detailed instructions, scroll down to the full printable recipe card at the bottom of this page.

How to Make Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready for a remarkably easy cooking experience! This Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it ideal for even the busiest evenings. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering meal:

Step One: Prepare Your Seasoning Blend. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until you have a well-mixed, fragrant spice blend. This ensures even distribution of flavor across your vegetables.

Step Two: Coat the Vegetables. Add your quartered baby potatoes, onion wedges, and sliced bell peppers to the bowl with the olive oil and spice mixture. Toss everything vigorously to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated. This initial seasoning is crucial for building a delicious flavor foundation for your air fryer vegetables.

Step Three: Begin Air Frying the Vegetables. Carefully transfer the seasoned potato mixture into the basket of your 6-quart air fryer. Arrange them in a single layer as much as possible to ensure even cooking and crisping. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and crispiness.

Step Four: Add the Sausage. After the initial vegetable cooking, remove the air fryer basket. Add your sliced smoked sausage pieces to the basket, distributing them amongst the partially cooked vegetables. This timing ensures the sausage heats through and gets slightly crispy without overcooking the vegetables.

Step Five: Finish Cooking. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue to air fry for another 5 minutes, or until the sausage is heated through and slightly browned, and the potatoes are tender and perfectly crispy. If you prefer your vegetables more tender, you can add a couple of minutes to this final cooking stage.

Step Six: Garnish and Serve. Once cooked, transfer your delicious Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy air fryer meal!

Tips & Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes

Achieving perfection with your Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes is easy with a few simple pointers. These tips and tricks will help you maximize flavor, ensure optimal cooking, and make cleanup a breeze:

Cut Evenly: For consistent cooking, make sure to cut your potatoes and onions into roughly the same size pieces (approximately 1-inch chunks). This ensures they cook at a similar pace, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers work best when there’s plenty of space for hot air to circulate around the food. If your air fryer basket is too full, the food will steam rather than crisp. Cook in batches if necessary, especially if you’re making a larger quantity of this sausage and potato recipe.
Shake Regularly: Shaking the air fryer basket every 5-7 minutes during cooking is crucial. This redistributes the ingredients, promoting even browning and crispiness on all sides of your potatoes and vegetables.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: While some air fryer recipes don’t strictly require it, preheating for 3-5 minutes can significantly help achieve better results, especially for crispy foods like potatoes.
Non-Stick Spray: A light spray of non-stick cooking spray on the air fryer basket before adding your ingredients can significantly aid in cleanup and prevent sticking, making your easy air fryer meal even easier.
Check for Doneness: Cooking times can vary between different air fryer models and the exact size of your cuts. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure any raw sausage is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for pork or 165°F (74°C) for chicken/turkey sausage. For smoked sausage, ensure it’s heated through to your preference. Potatoes should be fork-tender and beautifully golden.
Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning blend to your preference. A little extra chili powder for more heat, a pinch of onion powder for more depth, or a different herb can customize the flavor perfectly to your liking.

Storage and Reheating Your Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes

One of the many benefits of this Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe is how well it stores and reheats, making it excellent for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Properly stored, the dish remains delicious and retains its appealing texture.

Refrigeration: Leftover air fryer sausage and potatoes will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to storage.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Ensure the dish is completely cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or a gallon-size zip-top bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Methods:
- Air Fryer: For the best results that restore crispiness, reheat in your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the potatoes regain their desirable crispiness.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil. Add the leftovers and cook, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed and slightly re-crisped.
- Microwave: While convenient, microwaving may make the potatoes less crispy. Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot. This method is best if you prioritize speed over texture.
Creative Leftovers: Don’t just reheat! Leftovers are fantastic for breakfast. Serve them with a soft-boiled egg and some toast for a hearty meal to kickstart your day. You can also toss them into a scramble, a breakfast burrito, or even chop them up and add them to an omelet for a quick and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create an even more fulfilling family dinner. Here are a few ideas to round out your plate and enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, such as a lemon-thyme dressing, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sausage and potatoes. It adds a lovely crisp texture and freshness.
Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with a side of quickly prepared vegetables like spicy green beans, tender asparagus, or roasted broccoli. Many of these can even be roasted alongside your main dish in a separate compartment of your air fryer or a conventional oven if space allows.
Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of dipping sauces on the side to allow everyone to customize their meal. Classic BBQ sauce, a creamy honey mustard, a zesty sriracha aioli, or even a simple sour cream and chives dip can add an extra layer of flavor and fun.
Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: For an additional burst of tangy, salty flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or creamy goat cheese over the top just before serving. It melts slightly from the residual heat, adding a delightful creaminess.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty piece of bread or some garlic knots can be perfect for soaking up any delicious juices or simply complementing the hearty meal.

FAQs About Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes

Many home cooks have questions when venturing into air frying, especially with versatile dishes like sausage and potatoes. Here are answers to some common inquiries to help you master this quick and easy meal:

Do I need to pierce potatoes before air frying? It is generally recommended to pierce the skin of larger whole potatoes a few times before baking them in the air fryer. This allows steam to escape, preventing them from potentially bursting and ensuring they cook more evenly. For smaller, quartered baby potatoes as used in this recipe, piercing isn’t strictly necessary but doesn’t hurt.
How do I cook any smoked sausage in the air fryer? To air fry sliced smoked sausage (which is already cooked), simply place the pieces in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and lightly browned or crispy to your liking. Thicker slices might take a bit longer, so always check for your desired crispness.
Can I use raw sausage in the air fryer? Absolutely! Raw sausages will cook wonderfully in the air fryer, becoming crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside. However, their cooking time will be longer than pre-cooked smoked sausage. Depending on the thickness and type, raw sausages might need 15-20 minutes or more at 375°F (190°C), turning them halfway. Always ensure raw sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160-165°F (71-74°C) for food safety.
What is the best way to clean my air fryer after cooking? For easy cleanup, spray your air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper (ensure it’s designed for air fryers and doesn’t block air circulation) before cooking. After use, let the basket cool completely, then wash it with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Many air fryer baskets and trays are also dishwasher safe, but always check your appliance manual. Avoid harsh scrubbers that could damage the non-stick coating.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Definitely! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini slices, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Harder vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, if used, should be added at the beginning with the potatoes.

Substitutions & Creative Variations

One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes dish is incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor it to your personal tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some delicious substitution and variation ideas to inspire you:

Sausage Swap: The type of sausage can dramatically change the flavor profile. Instead of chorizo, try:
- Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, raw or pre-cooked, ensure proper internal temperature if raw).
- Polish sausage (kielbasa) for a milder, savory taste that’s widely loved.
- Chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter, healthier option that’s equally delicious.
- Even your favorite breakfast sausage links or patties can turn this into a breakfast-for-dinner treat that the whole family will enjoy!
Spice It Up: Experiment with different seasoning blends to customize the flavor.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Incorporate extra onion powder for an even more savory kick.
- Switch to Cajun seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper if you love a bit of heat and a Southern flair.
- A sprinkle of dried rosemary or thyme can also add an earthy, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
Potato Alternatives: While baby potatoes are fantastic for their quick cooking and texture, other options work beautifully.
- Sweet potatoes, cut into large chunks, offer a sweeter flavor and vibrant color. They air fry wonderfully.
- Fingerling potatoes or larger russet potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes) can also be used. Just adjust cooking time accordingly for different sizes and densities.
Add Cheese: For a deliciously indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese over the dish during the last minute or two of air frying. It will melt beautifully and add a rich, savory element.

More Delicious Air Fryer & Sausage Recipes to Love

If you’ve enjoyed the ease and flavor of this Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe, you’re in for a treat! The world of air frying is vast and full of quick, delicious possibilities. Explore these other fantastic recipes that will make your meal times exciting and simple:

Air Fryer Bacon: Learn how to make perfect crispy bacon every time, with less mess than stovetop frying.
Grilled Italian Sausage With Peppers and Onions: A classic combination that’s packed with savory flavor and vibrant vegetables.
Tortellini Soup With Sausage: A comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect for any season, featuring tender tortellini and flavorful sausage.
BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches With Kraut: A tangy and savory sandwich option that’s quick to assemble and deeply satisfying.
Green Chile Quiche With Sausage: A flavorful twist on a brunch favorite, combining zesty green chiles with savory sausage.
Grilled Polish Sausage With Sauerkraut: Another delightful and traditional sausage pairing, offering a wonderful balance of flavors.

Don’t forget to grab my Free Printable Air Fryer Cheat Sheet to help you master your air fryer settings, and feel free to browse ALL of My Air Fryer Recipes for even more inspiration and delicious ideas!

In conclusion, if you’re seeking a genuinely flavorful meal with minimal prep and effortless cleanup, this Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes recipe is an absolute must-try. The harmonious blend of savory sausage with perfectly crispy, seasoned potatoes, onions, and bell peppers creates a dish that is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with the efficiency of an air fryer, can deliver outstanding results for any home cook. Prepare to have this delicious and easy air fryer meal devoured by all at your dinner table!

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Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes

This recipe for Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes is a one-dish meal you’ll want to make on repeat. Seasoned potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and sausage are cooked to perfection in the air fryer and on the dinner table in about 30 minutes. The ideal meal for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 25 mins

Course: Air Fryer

Cuisine: American

Keywords: 30 minute meal, Air Fryer, air fryer potatoes, bell peppers, best air fryer recipes, chorizo, easy air fryer recipe, easy meal, onions, potatoes, Sausage

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 466 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Herb Scissors
Glass Batter Bowl
Whisks for Cooking, 3 Pack Stainless Steel Whisk
12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Oven Digital and Programmable, Nonstick (35050), 2.5 Liters, Black
COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo, 5.8QT

Ingredients

1 pound baby potatoes, quartered
1 onion, cut into wedges
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt, to taste
7 ounces smoked chorizo or andouille sausage, sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

Add olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and chili powder to a large mixing bowl. Whisk to combine.
Add the potatoes, onion, and bell peppers to the bowl and toss to coat.
Transfer the potato mixture to the air fryer basket and air fry for 15-20 minutes at 400F, shaking the basket halfway.
Remove the air fryer basket and add the sliced sausage, air fry for another 5 minutes.
Serve with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

This recipe is made with smoked sausage, which means it is already cooked. If you are using fresh sausage, I recommend cooking it most of the way first. It needs to have an internal temperature of 165 degrees F to be safe to eat.

Nutrition