Air Fryer Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage

Air Fryer Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage

Air frying Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage gives you a browned, slightly crisp exterior with a juicy, cheesy interior in under 10 minutes. Made with high-quality meat and real cheddar cheese, this fully cooked sausage is perfect for quick dinners, hearty sandwiches, or cheesy comfort food bowls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Real Cheddar in Every Bite

Melty, savory cheese inside a naturally hardwood smoked sausage—rich and satisfying.

Quick, Juicy, and Crispy

The air fryer crisps the outside while sealing in the juicy, cheesy center.

Great for Meals or Snacking

Serve whole in buns, slice into pasta, or dice for breakfast skillets.

Cook From Fresh or Frozen

Fully cooked and heats evenly straight from the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

• 1 package Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage (fresh or frozen, fully cooked)

Optional:

• Hoagie rolls or brat buns

• Mustard, BBQ sauce, or cheese sauce

• Sautéed onions, peppers, or pickled jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausages

• Remove from packaging.

• Leave whole or cut into 2–4 inch segments for quicker cooking.

• If frozen, separate gently—no thawing required.

• Place sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

• Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• For frozen sausage, cook 10–12 minutes, flipping after 5–6 minutes.

• Sausage is done when lightly browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Rest & Serve

Let rest for 2 minutes before slicing or serving to allow the cheese to settle inside.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Cook Whole, Then Slice

Keeps cheese sealed in and sausage extra juicy.

Watch for Splitting

Don’t overcook—cheddar sausages can split if overheated.

No Oil or Spray Needed

These sausages brown naturally without added oil.

Flip Halfway

Flipping ensures even color and crispness on all sides.

What to Serve With Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage

Topping and Sauce Ideas

• BBQ Sauce or Cheese Sauce – Enhance the cheddar flavor

• Spicy Mustard or Ranch – Tangy or creamy contrast

• Grilled Onions and Peppers – Sweet and savory balance

• Jalapeños or Pickles – Add crunch and bite

Side Dishes

• Mac and Cheese or Potato Wedges – Cheesy comfort sides

• Roasted Broccoli or Green Beans – Fresh and healthy

• Baked Beans or Cornbread – Great for BBQ-style meals

• Pasta Salad or Slaw – Cool, creamy complements

Creative Serving Ideas

• Cheddar Sausage Sandwich: Serve in a bun with melted cheese and crispy onions

• Breakfast Hash: Dice and mix with eggs and potatoes

• Loaded Bowl: Layer over rice or mashed potatoes with a drizzle of BBQ

• Chili Dog Style: Top with chili and shredded cheddar in a bun

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat in the Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 3–4 minutes, or until warmed through.

Can You Freeze After Cooking?

Yes—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 6–7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage Fully Cooked?

Yes—this sausage is fully cooked. Just reheat to 165°F before serving.

Can I Cook It From Frozen?

Yes—just add 2–3 extra minutes and flip halfway through.

Will the Cheese Leak?

Possibly—avoid piercing or overcooking to minimize cheese loss.

Do I Need Oil or Spray?

No—these sausages crisp up naturally in the air fryer without any oil.

Make Eckrich Cheddar Smoked Sausage in the air fryer for juicy, cheesy sausage with a crisp outside—ready in under 10 minutes. Full instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas included.