This air fried sausage burger recipe is an excellent way to turn leftover ingredients from your fridge into a delicious and creative meal. It’s the perfect example of how you can take what might seem like scraps and transform them into something exciting and flavourful. With food prices rising, it’s become more important than ever to reduce waste. And this recipe helps you do just that while enjoying a tasty dish.
I’ve always disliked the thought of tossing out food. Especially when it can be easily repurposed into something new. Rather than simply throwing leftovers into a pan and making a bland hash or soup, this air-fried sausage burger recipe proves that you can elevate them into a dish that’s far more exciting. It’s not just about using up leftovers. It’s about making them shine in a brand-new form.
This recipe came together when I found some leftover sausage and a few other ingredients hidden in the back of my fridge. Rather than let them go to waste, I put on my creative hat. And with my trusty air-fryer, I crafted these amazing sausage burgers. Topped with a perfectly fried quail’s egg, these burgers are a delightful blend of flavours and textures. The crispy air-fried sausage patty pairs beautifully with the rich, soft egg on top. It’s a satisfying and tasty meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a light lunch or dinner when paired with some seasonal greens.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning potential food waste into a meal that’s not only edible but genuinely enjoyable. This recipe proves that a little creativity in the kitchen can lead to delicious results. Helping to reduce waste while still enjoying an amazing meal.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 25 minutes
KIT you will need an air fryer and mixing bowl.
Ingredients for air fried sausage burger
2 pork sausages
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 quails egg
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper
To serve:
Sweet chilli jam
Watercress
Method
We had two leftover sausages from yesterday’s dinner, and rather than let them go to waste, I decided to turn them into something new and delicious. I started by removing the sausage meat from the casings and placing it into a mixing bowl. To add some freshness and boost the flavour, I chopped up a handful of fresh parsley and added it to the bowl, along with a finely sliced onion. I seasoned the mixture with a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper, then combined everything thoroughly using my hands. Once well mixed, I shaped the sausage mixture into rough patties.
I sprayed each patty lightly with olive oil to encourage a golden, crispy exterior and then placed them into the air fryer drawer. I set the air fryer to 180°C and cooked the patties for about 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crisping and a thorough cook. Always make sure your patty is cooked all the way through before serving – especially when working with meat.
Once cooked to perfection, I placed the hot, crispy sausage pattie onto a slice of crusty bread. I then gently fried a quail’s egg in a small pan, keeping the yolk slightly runny. And placed it carefully on top of the sausage burger. To finish the dish, I added a small spoonful of sweet chilli jam for a tangy contrast and garnished with fresh watercress.
The result? A wonderfully balanced meal with rich, savoury flavours from the sausage, creamy richness from the egg, and a touch of sweetness and spice from the chilli jam. The watercress added a lovely peppery crunch, making this simple creation a real winner. Proving once again that leftovers can make the best meals.
Tips for Air Fried Sausage Burger
1. Choose Quality Sausages
Start with good-quality sausages or sausage meat. Pork, chicken, or even plant-based options all work. If using sausages, simply slit the casing and remove the meat to shape into patties.
2. Add Flavour
Boost the mix with extras like chopped herbs, garlic, finely diced onion, or even a spoonful of mustard or grated cheese. This adds moisture and a flavour twist.
3. Shape Even Patties
Form sausage meat into equal-sized patties about 2cm thick. Press them slightly thinner in the centre so they cook evenly and don’t puff up.
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and let it heat up for 2 or 3 minutes. This helps the burgers start browning straight away and reduces sticking.
5. Use Baking Paper or Light Spray
Place the burgers on a small sheet of perforated baking paper or lightly oil the basket to prevent sticking, especially if your sausage meat is lean.
6. Don’t Overcrowd
Air fry in a single layer with space between each patty. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and less browning.
7. Flip Once
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through to get a golden crust on both sides. Use a meat thermometer if unsure and aim for 75°C (167°F) internal temp for pork or chicken.
8. Toast the Buns
Pop your burger buns into the air fryer for the last 1 or 2 minutes to get them warm and lightly toasted.
9. Get Creative with Toppings
Add cheese, crispy bacon, grilled onions, lettuce, or a fried egg. Don’t forget a tangy sauce or relish!
10. Serve Fresh
Serve immediately for best texture – crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavour.
Perfect for lunch, dinner or BBQ-style nights indoors!
Similar recipes
If you love pork then try my air fryer pork steak, the air fryer pork meatballs, this air fryer sausage bake or the air fryer pigs in blankets recipe.
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