Air Fryer Scotch Eggs. Just hearing the name conjures images of perfectly boiled eggs, wrapped in seasoned sausage, and encased in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Traditionally, this pub classic involves a rather messy and oil-laden deep-fryer. But what if I told you that you could achieve that same irresistible crunch and flavorful center with significantly less fuss and fat?
That’s right! Your trusty air fryer isn’t just for fries and frozen snacks anymore. It’s about to become your secret weapon for making restaurant-quality Scotch eggs right in your own kitchen.
Say goodbye to greasy cleanup and hello to a healthier, equally delicious version that’s perfect for brunch, a hearty snack, or even a unique dinner.
Why the Air Fryer Changes Everything
- Less Mess, Less Stress: No vats of hot oil means no splattering, no lingering greasy smell, and minimal cleanup. Just a quick wipe of your air fryer basket, and you’re done!
- Healthier Indulgence: By using circulating hot air instead of oil, you dramatically reduce the fat content without sacrificing that satisfying crunch. You can enjoy your Scotch eggs guilt-free!
- Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer excels at creating an incredibly crispy exterior, mimicking the deep-fried texture that we all crave, but with a lighter feel.
- No More Guesswork: We’ll show you exactly how to achieve that coveted runny, jammy, or fully set yolk every single time.
If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Low Carb Recipes, some of my favorites are BEST AIR FRYER BRATS, KETO AIR FRYER PICKLES, AIR FRYER THE BEST BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER BITES, and AIR FRYER NAKED CHICKEN TENDERS.
Ingredients Needed
- Large boiled eggs: Hard-cooked eggs with firm whites and creamy yolks
- Breakfast sausage: Ground sausage packed with savory, flavorful seasonings
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that adds rich umami flavor
- Onion powder: Fine, savory seasoning that enhances flavor without moisture
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Scotch Eggs: Mix shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack into the sausage for a gooey surprise.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sausage for heat.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives into the sausage for extra flavor.
- Breaded Version: Roll the sausage-wrapped eggs in breadcrumbs before air frying for extra crunch.
- Mini Scotch Eggs: Use quail eggs for bite-sized versions perfect for appetizers or snacks.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs for coating.
How To Make Scotch Eggs In Air Fryer
Step One: Add raw eggs to the air fryer basket and cook at 300 degrees F for 12 minutes. Once done, place eggs in an ice bath for 5 minutes. Peel eggs.
You can also pressure cook the eggs in your Ninja Foodi or Instant Pot Pressure Cooker. Cook for 6-minute eggs on high pressure. After the cooking process, place the eggs into bowl of ice-cold water.
Step Two: Divide the sausage meat (pork sausage) into equal portions and flatten each into a thin sausage layer. Season the sausage meat with any desired herbs or spices.
Step Three: Wrap each hard boiled egg with a layer of sausage meat, ensuring the meat covers the egg evenly and there are no gaps.
Step Four (Optional): Roll each sausage-wrapped egg in breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating. This step is optional but adds extra texture and flavor.
Step Five: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C), for 3-5 minutes.
Step Six: Place the Scotch Eggs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. Set cook time for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sausage is cooked and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step Seven: Once cooked, remove the Scotch Eggs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as a delicious snack or appetizer. Serve the Scotch Eggs with your favorite dipping sauce, such as mustard or aioli, for added flavor.
Easy Air Fryer Scotch Eggs Recipe Tips
- Let boiled eggs cool slightly to prevent cracking when wrapping.
- Wrap sausage tightly around eggs for even cooking and no gaps.
- Mix in herbs, spices, or cheese to boost sausage flavor.
- Cook in a single layer to avoid overcrowding and ensure crispiness.
- Flip halfway through for an evenly golden, crispy exterior.
- Pair with mustard, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Use quail eggs for mini Scotch Eggs, perfect for appetizers.
Storing Instructions
- Room Temperature: Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the air fryer directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
- Tip: Reheating in the air fryer keeps the sausage crispy while maintaining a tender egg center.
Easy Air Fryer Scotch Eggs Recipe Faqs
Can I use different types of sausage? Yes! Breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or spicy sausage all work.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble in advance and refrigerate until ready to air fry.
How do I keep the sausage from separating? Press the sausage tightly around the egg and seal all edges.
Can I make mini Scotch Eggs? Yes! Use quail eggs for bite-sized versions, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
How should I reheat leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F for 3–4 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Can I add extra flavor to the sausage? Yes, mix in herbs, spices, or cheese for a more flavorful Scotch Egg.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER THE BEST BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER BITES
- AIR FRYER ROASTED ASPARAGUS
- EASY AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED SHRIMP
- AIR FRYER CORNISH HENS
- HARD-BOILED EGGS IN AIR FRYER
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Air Fryer Scotch Eggs
Description
Ingredients
- 6 large boiled eggs, cooked
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, ground sausage
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Start by boiling the eggs until they reach a hard-boiled consistency. Once boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool completely before peeling.
- Divide the sausage meat into equal portions and flatten each portion into a thin layer. Season the sausage meat with any desired herbs or spices.
- Once the eggs are cooled and peeled, wrap each egg with a layer of sausage meat, ensuring the meat covers the egg evenly and there are no gaps.
- Roll each sausage-wrapped egg in breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating. This step is optional but adds extra texture and flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
- Place the Scotch Eggs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sausage is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the Scotch Eggs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as a delicious snack or appetizer.
- Serve the Scotch Eggs with your favorite dipping sauce, such as mustard or aioli, for added flavor.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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Pam W
We discovered Scotch Eggs on a trip to Scotland in the late 1980’s. It’s been a family and friend favorite ever since. This is one of my favorite foods to do in the Airfryer. It takes so little time, there’s minimal cleanup and I can still enjoy them in the summer, (110 degrees where I live right now) without turning on my oven!!! They are delicious hot, room temp or cold. Bet you can’t eat two!!!
Jamie Allen
When I was a teen, and still do, my mother told me I was never going to have a boyfriend because I sopped my egg juice with my toast or bisquit! LOLOL Low and behold my fiance also eats them like this. Lol contest to see who is the messiest!