Scotch eggs are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy, golden breadcrumbs with a savory sausage and perfectly boiled egg center. These handheld snacks are often enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. The classic deep-fried method for making Scotch eggs has a tendency to be a bit messy, but with the convenience and efficiency of the air fryer, you can make these irresistible bites with less oil and less cleanup. The air fryer ensures that each Scotch egg comes out with a beautifully crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and tender.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through how to make Air Fryer Scotch Eggs in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a quick favorite for its ease, flavor, and texture. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create these delicious treats!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Eggs: These are the heart of a Scotch egg. You’ll need large eggs to cook the perfect boiled center. The eggs should be boiled for about 8-10 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked but still tender inside.
Breakfast Sausage: The sausage is the key flavor component, providing a savory, seasoned base that wraps around the egg. You can use your favorite breakfast sausage, or feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs create the golden, crispy outer layer. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy texture. Panko is often preferred for its light, airy consistency that crisps up perfectly in the air fryer.
Flour: The flour helps the sausage stick to the egg by creating a light coating. It also provides a bit of texture to the crust when combined with the sausage and breadcrumbs.
Egg Wash: The egg wash is what binds the breadcrumbs to the sausage coating. It’s made by beating an egg and using it as a glue to help the breadcrumbs stick during the air frying process.
Salt and Pepper: These seasonings help bring all the ingredients together. A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper will enhance the flavor of the sausage and egg filling.
Ingredients List
- 6 large eggs, boiled and peeled
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, casing removed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Scotch Eggs
Step 1: Boil the Eggs
Start by boiling your eggs. Place the eggs in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs. After boiling, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel the eggs and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
In a mixing bowl, add your breakfast sausage and season it with salt and pepper. If you’d like, you can also add additional herbs or spices to the sausage mixture to suit your taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Eggs
Take one boiled egg and roll it lightly in the flour to coat it evenly. Then, gently flatten a portion of the sausage mixture in your hands and wrap it around the egg, ensuring it is fully covered. Repeat this step for the remaining eggs.
Step 4: Dredge in Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs
Dip the sausage-covered egg into the beaten egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll the egg in the breadcrumbs to create an even coating. Make sure each egg is thoroughly covered with breadcrumbs for that crispy texture.
Step 5: Air Fry the Scotch Eggs
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the Scotch eggs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the Scotch eggs are golden and crispy on the outside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Scotch eggs are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before slicing. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- For extra flavor, try seasoning your sausage with garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or sage.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sausage mixture.
- To ensure the sausage stays in place and doesn’t slide off, be gentle when wrapping it around the egg, and press the seams together well.
- You can also make these in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before air frying. Just make sure they’re completely chilled before cooking to help them hold together.
- If you prefer a lighter coating, use fewer breadcrumbs or go for a thinner layer of sausage.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Scotch eggs up to the point where they are coated in breadcrumbs, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, cook them in the air fryer as directed.
Can I freeze Scotch eggs?
Yes, you can freeze Scotch eggs before cooking. Once they are fully coated with sausage and breadcrumbs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, air fry them straight from frozen for about 18-20 minutes.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer. If you want a spicier version, use chorizo or a spicy Italian sausage. For a milder taste, turkey sausage or chicken sausage are good alternatives.
How do I know when the Scotch eggs are done?
The Scotch eggs are done when the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy, and the sausage inside is fully cooked. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check that the sausage is cooked through and the egg inside is warm.