Air-Fryer Brats: Cooking Thawed Brats Perfectly

Bratwurst, or brats, are a type of German sausage, usually made with pork but also sometimes with beef or veal. They are a popular food item, but cooking them can be a hassle, especially when using a grill. Fortunately, cooking brats in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and effective method that can be done in under 30 minutes. This introduction will discuss whether or not brats should be thawed before being cooked in an air fryer and will provide a guide on how to cook brats in an air fryer.

Recommended air fryer temperature

When cooking brats in an air fryer, it is important to preheat the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F or 360°F if your brats are thawed. You can also cook them at 370°F for 8 to 10 minutes or 400°F for 10 minutes. If you are cooking frozen brats, you can cook them at 350°F for 13 to 15 minutes.

The cooking time for brats in an air fryer is approximately 8 to 18 minutes, depending on the temperature and whether the brats are frozen or thawed. It is recommended to flip the brats halfway through cooking. You can also add a few minutes to the cooking time if you are cooking frozen brats.

It is important to ensure that the brats reach an internal temperature of 160°F to 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Air fryers vary in cook times and temperatures, so it is always best to test and watch the food carefully to ensure it is cooked properly. The size of your air fryer will also determine how many brats you can cook at one time.

How to avoid drying out the brats

Yes, you can cook thawed brats in an air fryer. Here are some tips to avoid drying them out:

Avoid Overcooking

Bratwursts are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Overcooking is the main reason brats become dry, so use a meat thermometer to monitor their temperature and take them out of the air fryer as soon as they reach the desired temperature.

Don't Pierce the Brats

Some people recommend piercing the skin of the bratwursts before cooking to prevent bursting. However, this can cause the juices to escape, resulting in dry brats. Instead, only pierce them towards the end of the cooking process to check if they're cooked.

Oil

Although air frying requires minimal to no oil, brushing a small amount of oil on the brats can help achieve a crispy exterior and prevent them from drying out. You can also lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.

Temperature and Timing

The cooking time and temperature for bratwursts in an air fryer can vary depending on the brand and wattage of your air fryer, as well as the size and type of bratwursts you're using. As a general guideline, cook your bratwursts at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them over halfway through. However, keep a close eye on them and adjust the timing as needed to avoid overcooking.

How to clean up after cooking

Yes, you can cook juicy and tasty bratwurst in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy way to cook brats without having to stand outside grilling. The air fryer is also a healthier option as it cuts down on excess fat and oil spatters.

• Use parchment paper or aluminium foil for easy cleanup: Line the bottom of the main hopper with foil, but not the basket, as this can interfere with the cooking process. Parchment paper is the best option for mess-free cooking.
• Place a piece of bread under the air fryer basket to catch grease: This will help to prevent grease from dripping and making a mess.
• Clean the air fryer basket: The basket is the only item that needs to be washed, so cleaning up is minimal.
• Wipe down the countertop: If you have prepared any toppings or sides, be sure to wipe down the counter and put away any leftover food.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil: If you have cooked more brats than you can eat, make sure to store them properly for later.
• Wash up any plates, cutlery, and serving utensils: As with any meal, be sure to wash up any items used for eating.

What to serve with brats

Yes, you can cook thawed brats in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook the brats for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them over halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F when they are done.

When it comes to serving brats, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas:

Sides

• Onion rings
• Coleslaw
• Cucumber salad
• Pierogies
• Green beans with bacon
• Potato salad
• Green bean salad
• Sweet potato fries
• Frito corn salad
• Potato chips

Toppings

• Sauerkraut
• Mustard
• Chopped onions
• Swiss cheese
• Ketchup

Bread

• Soft white buns
• Crusty rolls
• Sliced baguette
• Hoagie rolls

How to cook frozen brats

Yes, you can cook frozen brats in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature range for cooking brats is between 350°F and 380°F. Preheating is important as it ensures even cooking and helps you achieve the desired level of doneness.

Step 2: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Remove the air fryer basket from the air fryer, if possible. Brush or spray the basket's tray with a thin layer of cooking oil or use an air fryer-safe parchment paper liner. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Place the Frozen Brats in the Air Fryer

Once the air fryer has preheated, carefully place the frozen brats into the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer with some space around each brat to allow for even cooking and proper air circulation.

Step 4: Cook the Brats

Close the air fryer and cook the frozen brats for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. For best results, flip the brats halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size, wattage, and brand of your air fryer, so adjustments may be necessary.

Step 5: Check Doneness with a Meat Thermometer

To ensure that your brats are fully cooked, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of one of the brats. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F. This temperature reading indicates that the brats are safe to consume.

Step 6: Remove from the Air Fryer and Serve

Once the brats have reached the desired internal temperature, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool down slightly before serving.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Enjoy your juicy, crispy air-fried brats! Serve them on soft buns or crusty rolls, and feel free to top them with your favorite condiments, such as sauerkraut, mustard, or ketchup. You can also pair them with side dishes like onion rings, coleslaw, or cucumber salad.

Cooking frozen brats in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to prepare a delicious meal without the need for a grill or stovetop. Enjoy the convenience of year-round bratwurst cooking with minimal cleanup!

Frequently asked questions