Air Fryer Sausage Stuffing Bites – Crispy, Flavor-Packed, and So Easy!
If you love classic holiday stuffing but want something bite-sized, crispy, and easy to make, these Air Fryer Sausage Stuffing Bites are the perfect snack or appetizer. They combine the savory goodness of sausage, herbs, and breadcrumbs into golden-brown bites that cook perfectly in the air fryer.
Ready in under 25 minutes, these crispy sausage bites are ideal for parties, game nights, or as a quick side dish for family dinners.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground sausage
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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1/4 cup chopped onion
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1/4 cup chopped celery
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried sage
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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2 large eggs, beaten
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
Time & Yield
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
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Total Time: 25–30 minutes
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Servings: About 18–20 bites (serves 4–6 as an appetizer)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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The cooked sausage
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Breadcrumbs
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Parsley, onion, celery
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Garlic powder, sage, salt, and pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Form Bites
Pour in the beaten eggs and stir until the mixture sticks together.
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls — roughly the size of a golf ball.
If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water or a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Air Fry the Stuffing Bites
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Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
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Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil for extra crispiness.
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Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking or turning halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the sausage stuffing bites cool for a few minutes before serving.
They’re delicious on their own or served with cranberry sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for dipping.
Variations & Tips
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Spicy version: Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
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Gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
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Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausage and adjust the seasoning to taste.
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Extra flavor: Add a touch of grated apple or sautéed mushrooms to the mixture for depth.
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Make ahead: Prepare the mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before air frying.
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Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen for 2–3 minutes longer.
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Sausage Stuffing Bites are versatile and perfect for:
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Appetizers: Serve at parties or gatherings with dipping sauces.
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Breakfast: Pair with eggs and toast for a savory morning meal.
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Holiday Side Dish: A fun, bite-sized version of traditional stuffing.
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Game-Day Snack: Easy to grab and full of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked bites up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until hot and crispy again.
Nutritional Information (Per 3 Bites)
(Estimated; values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
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Calories: ~230 kcal
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Protein: 13g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fat: 16g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: ~420mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy outside, tender inside — perfectly air-fried texture
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Quick & easy — no baking sheet or oven preheating needed
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Make-ahead friendly — great for parties and meal prep
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Full of flavor — classic stuffing herbs with savory sausage
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Sausage Stuffing Bites are the ultimate bite-sized comfort food. Whether you’re hosting guests or just want a quick, satisfying snack, this easy air fryer recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to appetizer for holidays, potlucks, or everyday snacking.
