Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make 6 Air Fryer Scotch Eggs:
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs – Cooked and peeled.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage – Choose regular, spicy, or flavored depending on your taste.
- 2 large eggs (whisked) – Used for coating before breading.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko – Creates the crunchy outer crust.
- Non-stick cooking spray – For greasing the air fryer basket.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Hard Boil and Peel the Eggs
Start by hard-boiling your eggs. You can do this in advance or use your air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 270°F (130°C).
- Place raw eggs directly into the basket.
- Air fry for 15-17 minutes.
- Immediately transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5-10 minutes.
- Peel and pat dry. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage Coating
Divide 1 pound of sausage into six equal portions.
- Flatten each portion into a disc using your palms.
- Place one hard-boiled egg in the center.
- Wrap the sausage around the egg completely, sealing all edges and forming a smooth ball.
Tip: Damp hands prevent sticking and help smooth out the sausage layer.
3. Set Up the Breading Station
In two shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Whisk 2 raw eggs.
- Bowl 2: Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch!).
Now take each sausage-wrapped egg:
- Dip it in the whisked eggs.
- Roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Press gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
4. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick oil spray.
- Optionally, line with parchment paper made for air fryers.
- Arrange the Scotch Eggs in a single layer, leaving space between each.
5. Cook to Perfection
Air fry the Scotch Eggs at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
- Flip halfway through if your air fryer doesn’t cook evenly.
- The breadcrumbs should be golden brown, and the sausage cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F / 71°C).
Let them rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
There are endless ways to enjoy Air Fryer Scotch Eggs:
- Traditional British Style: Serve with a side of mustard, Branston pickle, or HP sauce.
- Breakfast Plate: Pair with avocado, sautéed spinach, and roasted potatoes.
- Picnic Lunch: Chill, slice in half, and pack with fruit and crackers.
- Party Appetizer: Slice into quarters and serve with toothpicks and a dipping sauce bar.
- Low-Carb Lunch: Enjoy with a green salad and vinaigrette for a protein-packed midday meal.
Make It Your Own: Variations & Customizations
Here’s how to switch up the flavors and adapt for dietary preferences:
🔥 Spicy Scotch Eggs
- Use spicy sausage or mix in cayenne, jalapeño, or chili powder.
🧀 Cheese-Stuffed Surprise
- Insert a cube of cheddar or mozzarella inside the egg before wrapping in sausage.
🌿 Herbed Twist
- Mix fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary into the sausage for depth of flavor.
🥑 Keto-Friendly Version
- Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour in place of breadcrumbs.
Storage & Reheating
To Store:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
- Wrap each cooked Scotch Egg tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
To Reheat:
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
- Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that crispy exterior.
Nutrition Information (Per Scotch Egg – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–350 |
| Protein | 23–26g |
| Carbs | 6–10g |
| Fat | 24–27g |
| Fiber | <1g |
| Sugar | <1g |
| Sodium | 500–600mg |
Pro Tips for Perfect Scotch Eggs
- Use Cold Eggs: Cold hard-boiled eggs are easier to peel and less likely to break when wrapping in sausage.
- Even Thickness: Flatten sausage evenly to avoid undercooked spots.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch: If you want more texture, double dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Rest After Cooking: Let the Scotch Eggs cool for a few minutes to firm up and slice cleanly.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Scotch Eggs are the ultimate combination of old-school comfort and modern convenience. They’re hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making them as part of your weekend brunch, weekly meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these crispy sausage-coated eggs deliver satisfaction in every bite.
With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can enjoy this pub-style favorite at home — minus the oil and the mess. Try them once, and you’ll be hooked!