Air Fryer Brats
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These air fryer brats are crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and cook in under 10 minutes.
Why cook bratwurst in the air fryer
I cook air fryer brats year-round because they deliver the same crisp exterior and juicy interior as grilled brats, without the grill setup or stovetop splatter.
After testing both plain and flavored bratwurst, I found the air fryer cooks them evenly and consistently every time. Compared to oven baking, they cook faster and develop better browning, thanks to the circulating heat.
I originally started using this method out of convenience, but it’s quickly become my go-to. My partner and I regularly enjoy them for quick weeknight dinners. Here’s why it works so well:
- Fast- The brats cook in under 10 minutes at 350°F.
- Even browning- Circulating heat crisps the casing without added oil.
- Low mess- The fat renders into the basket for easy cleanup.
Key Ingredients
The full printable list with measurements is in the recipe card below.
- Bratwurst sausages. Use fresh, uncooked bratwurst. Classic pork brats work best, but flavored varieties (like beer or cheese) also cook well using this method. Of course, if you want classic sausage, try my air fryer sausage links or air fryer Italian sausage instead.
- To assemble. For a quick meal, my family loves these with some onions, peppers, mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, relish, and some buns.
How to cook brats in the air fryer
Step 1- Assemble. Add the uncooked brats to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Step 2- Air fry. Cook the brats for 9 to 10 minutes (flipping halfway through), or until they are cooked nicely without burning the edges.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Use air fryer liners (optional). Perforated air fryer liners can make cleanup easier without significantly blocking airflow. I don’t recommend solid parchment paper sheets unless they are cut to allow air circulation.
- Cook to 165°F. The most reliable way to determine doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer. Bratwurst should reach 165°F in the thickest portion.
- Flip halfway for even browning. Although not mandatory, I turn them halfway through just so both sides get ample browning.
- Cook in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Proper spacing allows the hot air to circulate. If needed, air fry in batches.
Frequently asked questions
Place frozen bratwurst directly in the air fryer at 350°F and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
No. In my testing, piercing the casing caused the brats to lose more juices during cooking, resulting in a drier texture. Leaving the casing intact helps retain moisture and keeps the interior tender.
Air fryer Brats
Equipment
Video
Ingredients
- 6 bratwurst 3-4 ounces each (85-115g), uncooked
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- Add the bratwurst in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook the bratwurst for 5 minutes, flip, and cook for another 4 minutes. The bratwurst is fully cooked once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or until crisp and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cooking time: Based on 3-ounce (85g) brats. Larger brats will need to be cooked longer.
- Frozen brats: Cook directly from the freezer and increase the air frying time by 2-3 minutes.
- Leftovers: Can be kept in the fridge, covered, for 5 days. You can freeze them for up to two months. I recommend reheating them in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition
Nutrition information
Nutrition information is calculated using standard ingredient databases and reviewed for accuracy by registered dietitian Felicia Newell, MScAHN, RD, CPT. Values may vary depending on specific brands used.
Originally published August 2023
Hm never heard of bratwurst. Is it the type of sauseg?
Yes it is, Mario. I think you’d really enjoy them!
LOVE these air fryer brats so much!!!
Love to hear that, Simone!
Dear Arman,
Thank you, for healthy recipes.
I love your e-mails.
For the first time in my 73 years l
I am starting to get excited about cooking. Trying to eat at home, lose weight and get healthy. Love to see 3 to 5 Ingredients or less. For those
Busy days. If you are so inclined.
Seeing your breakfast recipes
Was wonderful, to make ahead.
I’m trying oats tomorrow. Where they can grab one b4 work.
Being on crutches for a few years. I’m so slow, but to make ahead. I believe we can eat at home. Thank you so much,
Sincerely Kathy
aw, Thank you Kathy. You are so sweet and it makes me so happy to hear you are excited about cooking. Please never hesitate to reach out 🙂
Air fryer brats are awesome! Try a one pot meal…cut up some brats, add onions, bell peppers and frozen pierogies.
(…and a little cajun seasoning).
LOVE that you added pierogies into the air fryer, too! Yum!!!