How to Cook Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage in Air Fryer: A Quick and Tasty Method
Smoked sausages have been a beloved food for centuries, making their way into various cuisines around the world. Among the many brands available, Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage stands out for its exceptional flavor and quality. If you’re a fan of this delectable meaty delight, then read on to discover a quick and tasty method to cook Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage using an air fryer.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly, efficiently, and with less oil compared to traditional deep frying methods. This kitchen appliance uses hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior while retaining the juicy goodness inside. The result is a healthier version of your favorite dishes, including sausages.
The Benefits of Air Frying
Using an air fryer to cook Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage offers several benefits. Firstly, it eliminates the need for excessive oil, reducing the calorie count and unhealthy fats commonly associated with deep-fried foods. Secondly, air frying provides a hassle-free cooking experience with minimal cleanup required. Finally, this method ensures that your sausages are cooked evenly, resulting in a perfect texture and flavor.
Preparing Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage for Air Frying
Before you delve into the cooking process, it’s essential to properly prepare the Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage to ensure an outstanding result.
Gather the Ingredients
To start, gather the necessary ingredients. You will need:
– Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage links
– Cooking oil spray or a brush to lightly coat the sausage
– Optional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika
Thaw and Slice the Sausage
First, it’s important to thaw the Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage if you are using frozen links. Thawing can be done by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost option in your microwave.
Once the sausages are thawed, slice them into equal-sized pieces. This step helps to ensure even cooking and enhances the overall presentation of the dish. Aim for slices approximately half an inch thick.
Preheat the Air Fryer
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, it is crucial to preheat your air fryer before cooking the sausages. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat up for several minutes.
Air Frying Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage
Now that your ingredients are prepared, it’s time to cook Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage in the air fryer. Follow these simple steps for a quick and tasty outcome:
Step 1: Lightly Coat the Sausage Slices
Using cooking oil spray or a brush, lightly coat each side of the Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage slices. This coating helps to enhance the browning process during air frying, resulting in a more appetizing appearance and texture.
Step 2: Optional Seasoning
If desired, you can add additional flavors to your sausages by sprinkling them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any other seasonings of your choice. This step allows you to personalize the taste to suit your preferences.
Step 3: Arrange the Sausage Slices
Evenly arrange the coated and seasoned Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage slices in the air fryer basket or tray. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation during cooking. If necessary, cook the sausages in batches.
Step 4: Set the Cooking Time and Temperature
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and the cooking time to 10-12 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the sausage slices and the efficiency of your air fryer. It is advisable to check the sausages’ internal temperature to ensure they reach a safe and delicious 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Flip and Monitor
After the initial cooking time, flip the sausage slices to ensure even browning on both sides. Continue air frying for an additional 2-3 minutes, closely monitoring the sausages’ color and texture. The aim is to achieve a golden-brown exterior while retaining the juicy and tender interior.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage slices have reached the desired level of crispiness, remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a moment before serving, as they will be very hot straight from the fryer. Pair your air-fried sausages with your favorite dipping sauce, sides, or place them into buns for a delicious sandwich.
Experiment with Your Air Fryer
Air frying is a versatile cooking method that allows you to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. While Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage is undoubtedly delightful on its own, you can also get creative by adding vegetables, such as peppers and onions, to create a flavorful and colorful meal.
Remember to adjust cooking times and temperatures when exploring different combinations and ingredients. Air frying opens up a world of possibilities, from appetizers to main courses and even desserts, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Cleaning Your Air Fryer
After enjoying your deliciously cooked Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage, it’s essential to clean your air fryer properly. Start by unplugging it and allowing it to cool down. Remove the basket or tray and wash it with warm soapy water or in a dishwasher, if dishwasher-safe. Wipe the inside of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any residue. Make sure to dry all the components thoroughly before storing.
Conclusion
Cooking Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage in an air fryer offers a quick, easy, and delicious method to enjoy this flavorful meat. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve perfectly cooked sausages with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Let your taste buds rejoice in the wonderful flavors while taking comfort in knowing that this cooking method reduces excessive oil and unhealthy fats. So, grab your air fryer and a pack of Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage, and embark on a delightful culinary journey.