How Long to Cook Brats in Air Fryer: Easy Guide for Perfectly Juicy and Crispy Results

If you’re craving juicy, flavorful brats with a perfectly crisp exterior, your air fryer is about to become your best friend. This kitchen gadget has revolutionized the way you cook, making it faster and easier to achieve mouthwatering results without the hassle of a grill or stovetop. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a casual get-together, air-fried brats are a crowd-pleaser you can whip up in no time.

Tools And Equipment

To cook brats in an air fryer perfectly, you’ll need a few essential tools and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Air Fryer

Choose an air fryer with a basket or tray large enough to fit your brats without overcrowding. A 4-quart air fryer works well for small batches, while larger models can accommodate more.

2. Tongs

Use heatproof tongs to easily turn and remove the brats. This helps ensure even cooking and keeps your hands safe from heat.

3. Food Thermometer

A digital food thermometer is vital to confirm your brats reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F for optimal doneness.

4. Cooking Spray

A light cooking spray prevents sticking and ensures a crispy exterior. Opt for non-aerosol sprays compatible with your air fryer.

5. Tray Or Plate

Prepare a tray or plate to set the brats on after removing them from the air fryer. This makes serving neat and organized.

Ingredients

To make perfectly cooked brats in an air fryer, you need a few simple ingredients. Below is a list of what you’ll require, along with some optional toppings to enhance your meal.

Brats

• 4 bratwurst sausages (uncooked or pre-cooked, your preference)
• Cooking spray (to prevent sticking)

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• Sauerkraut, as desired
• 4 brat buns or rolls
• Mustard, ketchup, or your favorite sauces
• Shredded cheese (optional)

Directions

Follow these steps to air fry brats to perfection. This method ensures juicy sausages with a golden, crisp exterior.

Prep

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Remove the brats from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. If adding onions or bell peppers, slice them thinly and set aside. Prepare brat buns or rolls by slicing them open if needed.

Preheat The Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C).
2. Allow it to heat for approximately 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking The Brats

1. Place the brats in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Ensure they are not touching for proper air circulation.
2. If using onions or bell peppers, arrange them around the brats.
3. Cook the brats at 370°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. Turn them halfway through using tongs to ensure even browning.
4. Cook until the exterior is golden brown with slight charring for added flavor.

1. Use a digital food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. The temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for uncooked brats.
2. For pre-cooked brats, the internal temperature should be about 140°F (60°C).
3. If the brats require additional time, cook them in 1-2 minute increments, checking the temperature after each interval.

Serving Suggestions

Air-fried brats are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and toppings to create a satisfying meal. Here’s how you can make the most of your perfectly cooked brats.

Pairing Ideas

• Potato Dishes: Pair your brats with crispy air fryer fries, creamy mashed potatoes, or a tangy potato salad for a hearty combination.
• Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted carrots, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad for balance.
• Classic Sides: Sauerkraut, baked beans, or coleslaw complement the savory flavors of the brats beautifully.
• Bread Options: Enjoy your brats on soft brat buns, crispy pretzel rolls, or even wrapped in tortillas for a creative twist.

• Condiments: Add mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce to enhance the brats’ flavor.
• Vegetables: Top with sautéed onions and peppers, fresh jalapeño slices, or crispy fried onions for texture.
• Cheese: Sprinkle on shredded cheddar, melt some Swiss, or add a slice of creamy provolone.
• Unique Add-Ons: Experiment with avocado, pickles, or even a dollop of spicy aioli for a modern touch.

Make-Ahead And Storage Tips

When preparing air-fried brats ahead of time or storing leftovers, proper handling ensures they stay flavorful and safe to eat. Follow these simple tips for the best results:

Make-Ahead Tips

• Cook in Advance: You can cook the brats in your air fryer and store them for later use. Follow the cooking instructions as stated and let the brats cool completely before storing.
• Reheat for Freshness: When ready to serve, reheat the brats in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crisp again. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Prep Vegetables Early: Pre-slice onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables you plan to use, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will save prep time when you’re ready to cook.

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigeration: Store cooked brats in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep any toppings or sides stored separately to prevent them from getting soggy.
• Freezing Leftovers: For longer storage, place fully cooked and cooled brats in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing Frozen Brats: When you’re ready to enjoy frozen brats, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Whether storing or reheating, avoid stacking or crowding the brats. This helps preserve their texture and avoids uneven heating.
• Separate Condiments and Buns: Store buns and condiments separately to prevent sogginess and ensure they stay fresh.

These tips help maintain the delicious quality of your air-fried brats, whether you’re enjoying them immediately or planning a future meal.

Conclusion

Cooking brats in an air fryer is a game-changer for quick, delicious meals. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, you can enjoy perfectly browned brats with a juicy interior every time. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or whipping up a weeknight dinner, this method delivers consistent results that everyone will love.

By following the simple steps and incorporating the suggested sides and toppings, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile. Don’t forget to use the storage and reheating tips to make the most of any leftovers.

Your air fryer isn’t just a tool—it’s your key to stress-free, flavorful cooking. So grab your brats, fire up the air fryer, and get ready to savor a meal that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!