If you’re looking for a lightning-fast, endlessly satisfying weeknight meal, look no further than these Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage! Hearty, flavor-packed, and unbelievably simple, this dish brings together crispy potatoes, juicy kielbasa, and sweet caramelized onions for a comfort food dinner that’s sure to please a crowd—whether that’s your family on a busy weeknight or friends for a lazy weekend brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in the air fryer, making clean-up a total breeze!
- Crispy, Golden Potatoes: The air fryer delivers those coveted crispy edges while keeping the potatoes fluffy inside.
- Hearty & Flavorful: Smoky kielbasa, savory spices, and sweet onions make every bite utterly crave-worthy.
- Crazy Versatile: This base recipe is delicious as written, but you can easily make it your own with veggies, different seasonings, or even plant-based sausage!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk essentials! The magic of Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage is how just a handful of humble ingredients can transform into a bold, colorful medley bursting with comfort. Every element brings its own special something, and together they create pure dinnertime joy.
- Potatoes: The heart of the dish! Choose a starchy variety like Yukon Gold or russet for those dreamy, crispy outsides and creamy insides.
- Kielbasa sausages: Savory, smoky, and satisfying—sliced thick so they get golden and caramelized in the air fryer.
- Brown onion: Adds natural sweetness and becomes beautifully soft and golden as it cooks.
- Olive oil: Helps everything crisp, adds flavor, and carries those spices perfectly through every bite.
- All-purpose seasoning: This versatile blend gives the dish a flavor backbone—feel free to use your favorite!
- Garlic granules: They bring a gentle, mellow garlic flavor that mingles so nicely with the potatoes and sausage.
- Salt and pepper: Don’t skip seasoning—these two make every other flavor sing.
Variations
One of the best things about Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage is how endlessly adaptable it is! Don’t be afraid to mix things up to better fit your pantry, dietary needs, or what your tastebuds are craving tonight.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli florets during the last ten minutes for veggies that roast up perfectly alongside the sausage and potatoes.
- Spice It Up: Swap in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, or a pinch of chili flakes for a little kick and a new twist on the original flavor profile.
- Make It Meatless: Try your favorite plant-based sausage or even a hearty protein like tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly spin.
- Different Sausage: Instead of kielbasa, use andouille, chorizo, or a classic smoked sausage—every option brings its own unique flair!
How to Make Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes
Begin by peeling your potatoes and dicing them into small, even cubes—think bite-sized so they cook quickly and evenly! Give them a good soak and rinse in cold water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch and helps them get exceptionally crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season and Start Cooking
After your potatoes are nice and dry (don’t skip this step!), toss them with half the olive oil, all-purpose seasoning, garlic granules, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Give everything a good mix, then transfer the seasoned potatoes to a preheated air fryer basket. Cook them at 180°C/360°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You want them fork-tender and just turning golden—about 90-95% cooked at this point.
Step 3: Add Sausage and Onion
While the potatoes are getting their head start, slice your kielbasa sausage into generous rounds or on the bias for extra surface area, and chop the onion into big, rustic chunks. Separate the onion layers and toss with the sausage and remaining olive oil, coating everything well for that signature air-fried caramelization.
Step 4: Finish and Combine
Add the sausage and onion mix to the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Give it all a gentle toss so the flavors get cozy, then air fry for another 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until the sausage is sizzling, the onions are golden, and the potatoes are perfectly crisp. Grab a fork (or two) and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage
- Potato Perfection: Dice potatoes into even pieces; this ensures they cook at the same rate and come out irresistibly crisp—not half mushy, half crunchy!
- Sausage Sizzle: Cutting the kielbasa on the bias gives you more caramelized edges and that glorious golden color that tastes as good as it looks!
- Maximize Air Fryer Space: Don’t overcrowd the basket—if you’re doubling the Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage, cook in batches for the crispiest results.
- Season in Layers: Toss the potatoes with seasoning first, then add another sprinkle when mixing in the sausage and onions for flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage
Garnishes
A finishing touch of something fresh or punchy takes Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage over the top! Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for a pop of color. If you’re feeling zesty, a little grated Parmesan or a drizzle of spicy hot sauce is always welcome at my table.
Side Dishes
This dish holds its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or a scoop of tangy coleslaw for balance. For a heartier spread, buttery biscuits or a soft-crusted loaf of bread make excellent companions, perfect for soaking up all those flavorful juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch, pile your Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage into small bowls and top each with a soft-fried egg. Hosting a crowd? Serve on a big platter lined with parchment for a rustic, family-style feel. Or, tuck the mixture into warm pita bread with a dollop of spicy mustard for a grab-and-go twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftovers completely and transfer to an airtight container. Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days, making for an excellent lunch or quick dinner behind Door #2!
Freezing
For longer storage, portion the cooled potatoes and sausage into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To bring Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage back to their former crispy glory, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 180°C/360°F for 3–4 minutes, shaking once or twice, until hot. You can also reheat gently in the oven or even microwave for a quicker fix (though the potatoes will be softer).
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While kielbasa brings smoky, savory flavor, you can use andouille, chorizo, smoked beef sausage, or even plant-based sausage—each will lend its own twist. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked and slice according to the instructions so it browns beautifully in the air fryer.
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Why do I need to soak and rinse the potatoes first?
Soaking and rinsing diced potatoes removes excess starch, which helps them get extra crispy in the air fryer. If you skip this step, you may end up with potatoes that are a little too soft or have a gummy texture on the outside.
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How can I tell when the Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage are done?
The potatoes should be fork-tender with golden, crispy edges, and the sausage will be sizzling and beautifully caramelized. The onions should look soft and a little golden around the edges—just perfect.
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Can I double the recipe in my air fryer?
You can, but to guarantee crispy results, cook in batches so the air fryer basket isn’t crowded. Overcrowding traps steam and softens the potatoes, so a little patience pays off!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dinner that checks every box—quick, hearty, and crowd-pleasing—Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage is calling your name! I can’t wait for you to experience just how easy and delicious this recipe can be. Give it a try and let it earn its place as your new family favorite!
Print
Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage that results in crispy potatoes and flavorful sausages, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 1 kg potatoes
Sausages:
- 400 g Kielbasa sausages
Additional:
- 1 medium brown onion
- 2 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
- 1/2 Tablespoon garlic granules
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 180C/360F.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel, dice, rinse, and season the potatoes before air frying for 10-12 minutes.
- Prepare Sausages and Onions: Slice the sausages and chop the onions, then mix with olive oil.
- Combine Ingredients: Add sausages and onions to the potatoes, mix, and air fry for an additional 5-8 minutes.
- Serve: Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- You can customize the seasoning to your preference by adding herbs or spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
