Making these impressive Scotch eggs is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps.

1. Boil the Eggs: Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently lower 6 of the eggs into the water. Let them cook for exactly 6 to 7 minutes for a perfect jammy yolk (or 9 minutes for a firmer, but still soft, yolk). While they cook, prepare a large bowl with ice and water. Once the timer goes off, immediately transfer the eggs to the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them cool completely for about 10 minutes, then carefully peel them and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ground sausage, Dijon mustard, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Divide the sausage mixture into 6 equal portions and roll each into a ball.

3. Wrap the Eggs: Place one ball of sausage on a piece of parchment paper and flatten it into a thin, even patty about 4-5 inches wide. Place one of the peeled, boiled eggs in the center. Gently bring the edges of the sausage up and around the egg, carefully molding it with your hands to cover the egg completely. Make sure there are no gaps or cracks. Repeat with the remaining eggs and sausage.

4. Set Up Your Breading Station: You’ll need three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second, crack the remaining egg and beat it with a splash of water to create an egg wash. In the third dish, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.

5. Coat the Scotch Eggs: Working one at a time, gently roll a sausage-wrapped egg in the flour until it’s lightly coated, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully covered. Finally, press it firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, turning to coat all sides completely. Place the finished egg on a clean plate or baking sheet. Repeat for all eggs.

6. Cook in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking spray. Place the Scotch eggs in the basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. You may need to cook them in two batches. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping them over halfway through the cooking time. They are done when the sausage is cooked through and the outside is deeply golden brown and crispy.