Air fryer toad in the hole by Amelia

Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, nostalgic dish but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen or heat up your whole oven, Air Fryer Toad in the Hole is your new weeknight hero. This lighter, faster twist on the traditional English comfort food uses the magic of the air fryer to deliver golden, puffy batter around sizzling sausages. Developed by Amelia, this version stays true to its roots while embracing modern convenience.

Perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or when you’re just after something indulgent yet homey, this dish pairs beautifully with gravy and a side of peas or roasted vegetables. The batter puffs up around the sausages like a savory Yorkshire pudding, and the air fryer gives you that crisp edge without deep frying or prolonged baking.

Let’s dive into this soul-satisfying dish from Amelia’s kitchen to yours.

---

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need only a handful of pantry staples:

For the batter:

• 100g (about ¾ cup) plain all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 150ml (about ⅔ cup) milk (whole or semi-skimmed)

• A pinch of salt

• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

For the sausages:

• 4 good quality pork sausages (or use veggie sausages for a meatless version)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or beef dripping (traditional!)

---

Optional Additions

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard in the batter for a subtle kick

• Chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary

• Onions or shallots (caramelized and added before baking for extra flavor)

---

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (basket or tray-style)

• Mixing bowl and whisk

• Measuring jug or cup

• A small baking tin or dish that fits inside your air fryer

• Tongs

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer at 200°C (390°F) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating is crucial to help the batter rise and crisp properly.

---

Step 2: Make the batter

In a large mixing bowl:

1. Add 100g flour and a pinch of salt.

2. Crack in 2 eggs and gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

3. For extra flavor, season with black pepper and stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard if desired.

4. Let the batter rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and gives you a better rise.

Tip from Amelia: “Resting the batter makes all the difference in the texture. Don’t skip it!”

---

Step 3: Cook the sausages

1. Add a tablespoon of oil or beef dripping to your small baking tin.

2. Place the sausages in the tin and put it in the preheated air fryer.

3. Cook at 200°C for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway, until they’re lightly browned.

You want them partially cooked—not fully done—so they finish cooking inside the batter.

---

Step 4: Add the batter

1. Carefully remove the hot tin with sausages from the air fryer (use oven mitts).

2. Quickly pour the rested batter into the hot tin around the sausages. The sizzle means it’s hot enough—this helps achieve that puffed, golden effect.

3. Work quickly so the batter doesn’t lose its heat advantage.

Amelia’s Note: “The batter hitting the hot oil should sound like applause. That’s when you know it’ll rise beautifully!”

---

Step 5: Air fry the Toad in the Hole

1. Return the filled tin to the air fryer immediately.

2. Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 16–20 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.

3. Avoid opening the fryer too early—it can cause the batter to deflate. Peek only near the end if necessary.

The result? Crispy, golden top, soft and fluffy inside, and sausages perfectly cooked through.

---

Serving Suggestions

Once out of the air fryer, let it rest for a minute or two. Cut into wedges and serve hot.

Pair it with:

• Onion gravy

• Steamed peas or green beans

• Roasted carrots or root veggies

• A dollop of mashed potatoes (classic!)

---

Tips for Success

1. Use room temperature ingredients.

Cold milk or eggs can affect the batter’s ability to puff. Let them sit at room temp for a bit before mixing.

2. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer.

If you’re using a smaller model, cook in batches or reduce the recipe accordingly.

3. Watch the timing.

Each air fryer is different. Your first try might take a bit of observation to find the perfect timing.

4. Make ahead batter.

You can prepare the batter the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just bring it to room temp before cooking.

---

Why This Recipe Works in the Air Fryer

Traditional toad in the hole requires high heat and careful monitoring. The air fryer mimics that hot oven environment but uses convection heat to speed up the process and crisp the edges more reliably.

It’s also energy-efficient, meaning you can make this cozy dish even on a hot day without heating your kitchen.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken or veggie sausages? Absolutely! Just adjust the initial cooking time if needed—chicken or thinner sausages cook quicker.

What if my batter doesn’t rise? Make sure the oil and dish are hot before adding the batter. Also, ensure your batter is well-rested and not too thick.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, as long as your air fryer fits a larger tin. Don’t overcrowd; the batter needs space to puff.

---

Conclusion

Air Fryer Toad in the Hole by Amelia is a triumph of simplicity and flavor. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, crispy, savory meal that’s perfect for the whole family. The air fryer gives it a perfect puff and crispness, and the ease of prep means it’s perfect even for weeknights.

Try it once, and you’ll understand why this dish is a firm favorite in Amelia’s home—and soon, yours too.