Air Fryer Brats: Cooking raw brats only takes about 10 minutes in a 400° air fryer and gets dinner or lunch on the table in a flash! Cooking brats on the stove takes about 25 minutes, so a bit longer but it’s definitely an option. Sure, cooking brats in the oven is easy. But for some reason, using the air fryer almost feels easier… and perhaps it’s because you don’t have to heat up the entire oven just for a small batch of brats. And honestly, I almost feel silly calling this a “recipe” since it’s so stinking easy. You open the package of brats, put them in the air fryer, and then eat them. That’s it! But it IS helpful to know how long to cook brats in the air fryer and what temperature to cook them at, AND to see what kinds of toppings you can have for brats, so I decided it was necessary to create this “recipe.”
Bratwurst, those juicy German sausages packed with flavor, are a go-to for quick meals or game-day feasts. If you’re wondering whether you can cook brats in an air fryer, the answer is a resounding yes! The air fryer delivers a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior in a fraction of the time it takes to grill or bake. Plus, it’s a fuss-free method with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you don’t want to fire up the grill. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make perfect air fryer brats, from cooking times to topping ideas and troubleshooting tips.
Why Choose the Air Fryer for Brats?
The air fryer is a game-changer for cooking bratwurst. Unlike grilling, which requires constant monitoring and can be tricky in bad weather, or stovetop cooking, which often leads to grease splatter, the air fryer offers a controlled environment that ensures even cooking. The hot air circulation mimics the crispiness you’d get from a grill without the hassle. According to Allrecipes, air fryer brats achieve a “perfect texture” with a crispy casing and juicy interior, all without firing up the grill. It’s also a healthier option since you don’t need extra oil—the brats’ natural fat does the work.
How to Cook Brats in the Air Fryer
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get those brats perfectly cooked:
Cooking Frozen or Pre-Cooked Brats
Got frozen brats? No problem! You can cook them straight from the freezer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 13-17 minutes, flipping halfway. Frozen brats may not brown as evenly, so check the internal temperature to ensure they hit 160°F. For pre-cooked brats, like some Johnsonville varieties, reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes at 360°F, just enough to heat through and crisp the casing. One X user raved about Johnsonville brats in the air fryer, saying they’re just as juicy as grilled but ready in 10 minutes instead of
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Brats
– Don’t Pierce the Brats: Many sources, like Bonappeteach, warn against piercing brats before cooking. Piercing can cause the casing to split, letting out precious juices and resulting in dry sausages. If you’re worried about bursting, lower the temperature slightly (try 350°F) and extend the cooking time.
– Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend for avoiding under- or overcooked brats. Aim for 160°F for raw pork brats or 165°F for ground pork, accounting for carryover cooking.
– Room Temperature Brats: Letting brats sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before cooking helps them cook more evenly and quickly.
– Clean the Air Fryer: Brats release a lot of fat, which can cause smoking if the air fryer isn’t clean. Line the basket with parchment or foil (with holes for air circulation) to catch drippings and simplify cleanup.
– Experiment with Flavors: Try different brat varieties, like beer brats, cheddar brats, or even local butcher shop specialties like chipotle or maple. Each adds a unique twist to your meal.
Topping and Serving Ideas
Brats are a blank canvas for delicious toppings. Here are some crowd-pleasers:
– Classic German Style: Sauerkraut, Dijon or stone-ground mustard, and raw or caramelized onions on a crusty roll or pretzel bun.
– Kid-Friendly: Ketchup, potato chips, and a soft hot dog bun for a quick, fuss-free meal.
– Spicy Kick: Jalapeños, sriracha, or horseradish mustard for those who like heat.
– Low-Carb Option: Skip the bun and serve with sautéed peppers and onions or a side of coleslaw for a keto-friendly dish.
– Game-Day Feast: Set up a “brat buffet” with various toppings like pickles, cheese (Swiss or cheddar), and relish, paired with sides like potato salad or air-fried zucchini.
For inspiration, try pairing your brats with a side of homemade coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
– Brats Splitting or Spraying: If brats split or spray juice, it’s likely due to high heat or piercing. One Reddit user shared a scary experience with a brat “shooting juice” in a Ninja air fryer, causing smoke. To prevent this, avoid piercing, lower the temperature to 350°F, and ensure the air fryer is clean to avoid burning fat drippings.
– Uneven Cooking: If brats aren’t browning evenly, make sure they’re in a single layer with space between them. Flipping halfway helps, especially in basket-style air fryers.
– Dry Brats: Overcooking or piercing can dry out brats. Stick to the recommended 160°F internal temperature and let them rest before serving.
– Smoke Issues: High-fat brats can cause smoke if the drip pan isn’t clean. Use parchment liners or foil, and wipe down the air fryer after each use.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover brats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 360°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the casing crispy, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy. Leftover brats are also great sliced up in soups, stews, or even as a pizza topping.
Why Air Fryer Brats Are a Winner
Air fryer brats are a lifesaver for quick, delicious meals. They’re versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to backyard BBQs. Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves sauerkraut and mustard or someone who likes to experiment with bold flavors, the air fryer makes it easy to get that grill-like texture without the hassle. So next time you’re craving bratwurst, skip the grill and give your air fryer a whirl—you won’t be disappointed!
Did you know brats in the air fryer are perfectly cooked? As a child of German parents, I’ve been enjoying brats for over 20 years. In the last 4 years, I’ve discovered the magic of making brats in the air fryer. This method is a game-changer – it’s quick, easy, and delivers delicious results every time. Juicy brats are on the table in just 15 minutes! Go ahead and try making air fryer brats!
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