Air Fryer Scotch Eggs are a delicious, crispy, and protein-packed dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack. This version skips deep frying and uses an air fryer to achieve a golden, crunchy coating while keeping the inside perfectly cooked. The combination of seasoned sausage, a crispy breadcrumb crust, and a tender boiled egg makes this dish both satisfying and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier alternative – Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil compared to deep frying.
- Crispy and flavorful – The breadcrumb coating gives a perfect crunch while the sausage remains juicy.
- High in protein – With eggs and sausage, this dish is packed with protein, making it a great meal option.
- Quick and easy – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Great for any meal – Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or even as a high-protein snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 large eggs, boiled and peeled
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Cooking spray
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, season the ground sausage with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Divide the sausage into four equal portions and flatten each portion in your palm.
- Wrap each boiled egg completely with the flattened sausage, ensuring it is evenly covered.
- Dip each sausage-wrapped egg into the beaten egg, then coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the coated eggs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the sausage is fully cooked and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 12-15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for extra heat.
- Cheesy twist – Mix shredded cheese into the sausage for a melty surprise.
- Different coatings – Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or panko for a different texture.
- Herb-infused – Add chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the sausage for enhanced flavor.
- Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for coating.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Scotch eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each Scotch egg individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating:
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, though this may soften the coating.
FAQs
How do I prevent the sausage from cracking during cooking?
Ensure the sausage is evenly wrapped around the egg and firmly pressed together. Chilling the wrapped eggs before coating can also help.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage works well as a leaner alternative, though it may require a slightly longer cook time.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
Regular breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed pork rinds work well, depending on your preference for texture.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps achieve even cooking and a crispier coating.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge before air frying.
What dipping sauces pair well with Scotch eggs?
Mustard, aioli, hot sauce, or even a simple yogurt-based dip complement the flavors well.
Can I bake these in the oven instead?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Why did my Scotch eggs turn out dry?
Overcooking can dry out the sausage. Keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (160°F for pork).
How do I make soft-boiled Scotch eggs?
Boil the eggs for 6 minutes instead of fully hard-boiling them, then carefully peel and proceed with the recipe.
Can I use pre-cooked eggs from the store?
Yes, pre-cooked and peeled eggs can save time and work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Scotch Eggs are a quick, delicious, and protein-packed meal option that combines crispy textures with savory flavors. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy customization options and a healthier cooking method, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty, air-fried twist on a classic dish.
