Cooking brats in an air fryer at 400°F is a game-changer for quick, juicy, and flavorful sausages with a crispy exterior. This method cuts down on mess and time compared to grilling or pan-frying, delivering delicious results in under 15 minutes.
Cooking Times and Instructions
Fresh Brats
Cooking raw brats only takes about 10 minutes in a 400° air fryer, creating juicy brats and it gets dinner on the table in a flash! Place brats in a single layer in the fryer basket. Cook at 400° for 10 minutes (flip halfway through) or until internal temperature of brats reach 160°. Air fryers can vary with cook times and temperatures, depending on the brand and style. It’s always best to test and watch the food you’re cooking carefully to make sure yours doesn’t cook faster/stronger than what mine may. Also, make sure to check the internal temperature of the brats to make sure they reach 160° before consuming.
Pre-Cooked Brats
For pre-cooked brats, air fry at 400 degrees F for 5-6 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through. Enjoy immediately with your favorite toppings. A meat thermometer can help you check the internal temperature of the brats. Glasslock Glass Food Storage Containers – the square containers are the perfect size for lunches, stain proof, and they are dishwasher safe. Great air-tight container for storing leftovers or meal prep!
Frozen Brats
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F, using the air fryer setting, and preheat for 2-3 minutes, or use the preheat setting. Open your package of brats, place the frozen brats into the air fryer basket in a single layer, and set the cooking time to 10-15 minutes. Remove when the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F, using a meat thermometer. For even more flavor, use a pastry brush and brush with melted butter. Serve on a hot dog bun or hoagie roll.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Brats
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you have too many brats in the air fryer, they won’t cook evenly. Cook in batches. As with any air fryer recipe, always cook the brats in a single layer. If your air fryer can’t accommodate all your sausages, cook them one batch at a time.
- Flip Halfway: Although not mandatory, I flip them halfway through just so both sides get ample browning.
- Use Liners for Easy Cleanup: I like to make air fryer bacon and air fryer turkey bacon for this very reason. I sometimes even line them with paper liners to prevent ANY mess. Another option is to place aluminum foil in the air fryer, ensuring the edges are folded upward to trap any drips or juices.
- Check Internal Temperature: The internal temperature of fully cooked brats should be 165F. Bring the brats to room temperature. Checking the internal temperature is the best indication of whether the brats are cooked or not.
- Avoid Piercing: No, there is no need to poke holes in bratwurst sausage before cooking them. Do not pierce the brats before cooking or they will lose their juices.
Topping and Serving Suggestions
Serve air fryer brats in the same way that you’d serve grilled or stovetop browned sausages. Nestle them in soft buns and top with sautéed peppers, onions, and spicy mustard. Cut the cooked sausage crosswise and toss with tender pasta and caramelized veggies. Stir sliced brats into soup or serve them for a fun snack board supper. I love my bratwurst in a brioche roll with sauerkraut and mustard. Though if you’re looking for a low-carb meal, simply serve them over a bed of sautéed pepper and onions with kraut and mustard on the side – yum!
Here are some tasty toppings, condiments, and sides to consider for air fryer bratwurst:
- Mustard – I love stone ground German mustard like Inglehoffer or a horseradish mustard.
- Ketchup, diced onion, and relish – This Wisconsin girl would never enjoy my brats this way. I have a few friends who go this route and I’m sure it’s delicious!
- Cheese sauce with fried pickles – Yes, it’s a thing.
- Fried egg – This works best if you squeeze the meat from the casings and form patties before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is optional but recommended for even cooking. Most sources suggest preheating at 400°F for 2-3 minutes. If you skip preheating, you may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time.
2. Can I cook frozen brats without thawing?
Yes, you can cook frozen brats directly in the air fryer at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. No thawing is required.
3. Should I spray the air fryer basket with oil?
Lightly spraying the basket with cooking spray or brushing with oil (like avocado or olive oil) can prevent sticking, especially with natural casings. Alternatively, use air fryer-safe parchment paper for easier cleanup.
4. How do I know when the brats are done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for fresh or frozen brats and 140°F for pre-cooked brats. The exterior should be golden brown and crispy.
5. Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the brats?
Yes, you can add sliced bell peppers, onions, or thinly sliced potatoes when you flip the brats. Ensure they’re in a single layer to avoid uneven cooking.