Air Fryer For Bratwursts: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can cook bratwurst in an air fryer! It's a quick and easy way to make juicy and tender bratwurst with a crispy exterior. The air fryer also adds a grilled taste to the bratwurst, and you can cook them in just 11 to 15 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.

Air fryer bratwurst cooking times and temperatures

Bratwursts are a type of German sausage, usually made with pork but also sometimes with beef or veal. They can be cooked from frozen, but it will add a few minutes to the cooking time.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for bratwursts in an air fryer will depend on the number of bratwursts being cooked, whether they are cooked from frozen, and the type of air fryer being used.

Bratwursts should be cooked at between 350 and 380 degrees Fahrenheit. They will take between 8 and 15 minutes to cook, depending on the number of sausages being cooked and whether they are cooked from frozen.

It is recommended that you preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the bratwursts.

Bratwursts should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 160-165 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be measured with a meat thermometer.

Tips for cooking bratwursts in an air fryer

• You can cook up to 12 bratwursts at a time, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Bratwursts should be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with a little space around each sausage.
• You can add peppers and onions to the air fryer with the bratwursts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper first.
• Bratwursts can be served in a bun with sauerkraut, onions, and mustard.

How to serve bratwurst

There are many ways to serve bratwurst, a type of German sausage usually made with pork, but also sometimes with beef or veal. Bratwursts can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. Here are some serving suggestions:

• German style: Bratwursts can be served German-style with potatoes, sauerkraut, mustard, and beer. This traditional serving method is a great way to enjoy the flavours of Germany.
• American style: For a more American take, serve your bratwurst on a bun with hot dog toppings such as sauerkraut, bell peppers, onions, and mustard. This is a classic way to enjoy a bratwurst at a summer barbecue or picnic.
• With sides: Bratwursts can be served with a variety of sides, such as onion rings, coleslaw, cucumber salad, pierogies, or green beans. These sides add extra flavour and texture to your meal.
• Toppings and variations: There are endless possibilities for toppings and variations when serving bratwurst. Some popular choices include caramelised onions, crispy fried onion strings, ketchup, mayonnaise, cheese, pickles, and relish. You can also get creative with different types of mustard, such as deli-style or stoneground.
• In a bun: Bratwursts can be served in a variety of buns, such as soft white buns, crusty rolls, baguette, or hoagie rolls. A sturdy roll will hold up to the juicy bratwurst and toppings.
• With a side of vegetables: If you're looking for a healthier option, serve your bratwurst with some sauteed peppers and onions. This adds some extra flavour and nutrition to your meal.
• As part of a 'brat buffet': Why not set up a DIY brat buffet with an assortment of condiments, toppings, and sides? This is a great way to feed a crowd and let everyone customise their bratwurst.

No matter how you choose to serve them, bratwursts are a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. So get creative and enjoy this German delicacy!

How to store and reheat air-fried bratwurst

Storing your air-fried bratwurst is easy. To store leftover bratwurst for the best quality, first, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, wrap the bratwurst tightly in aluminium foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to three months.

To reheat your air-fried bratwurst, preheat your air fryer to 320°F to 350°F. Place the bratwurst in the air fryer basket and cook for 3 to 7 minutes, turning once halfway through.

What to serve with bratwurst

Bratwursts are a German speciality, often likened to bigger and better hot dogs. They are usually made with a blend of pork and veal and seasoned with spices like caraway, nutmeg, and coriander.

There are many side dishes that can be served with bratwursts, here are some suggestions:

• Salads: A German potato salad, either the Northern or Southern variety, is a traditional choice. Other salads that pair well include cucumber salad, tomato salad, and coleslaw.
• Vegetables: Grilled corn on the cob, cabbage and onions, Brussels sprouts, and German red cabbage are all tasty vegetable sides.
• Potatoes: Potato pancakes, sweet potato fries, oven-roasted baby potatoes, and loaded mashed potato casserole are all delicious options.
• Carbohydrates: Macaroni salad, mac and cheese, spaetzle, and buttered noodles are hearty sides that will fill you up.
• Other: Baked beans, soft pretzel bites, and pierogies are also great choices to round out your meal.

And of course, don't forget the sauerkraut, a classic pairing with bratwursts!

How to cook frozen bratwurst in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen bratwurst in an air fryer! Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Some recipes suggest cooking the bratwurst at 370°F, but a lower temperature is generally recommended to prevent the sausages from drying out and shrivelling.

Step 2: Place the Bratwurst in the Air Fryer

Place the frozen bratwurst in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space around each sausage for the hot air to circulate.

Step 3: Cook the Bratwurst

Cook the bratwurst for 12-15 minutes at 350°F, turning them over halfway through. The bratwurst is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a digital meat thermometer to check this.

Step 4: Remove from the Air Fryer and Rest

Remove the bratwurst from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and moist.

Step 5: Serve

Bratwurst can be served in a roll with your favourite toppings, or with sides such as cooked sliced peppers and onions, broccoli salad, coleslaw, cucumber salad, or potato salad.

Tips

• You can line the air fryer with parchment paper to absorb excess grease.
• To make cleanup easier, you can place a piece of bread or aluminium foil with holes in it underneath the air fryer basket to catch any grease that drips.
• If you are cooking more than five bratwurst, you may need to cook them in batches.
• Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.

Frequently asked questions