Air-Fryer Bratwurst: Quick, Crispy, Delicious

Yes, you can cook bratwurst in an air fryer! It's an easy, quick, and mess-free way to cook juicy and delicious bratwurst without the need for a grill or stovetop. The cooking time varies depending on the air fryer model and the number of bratwurst being cooked, but on average, it takes around 12 to 15 minutes to cook bratwurst in an air fryer.

How to cook bratwurst in an air fryer

Ingredients

Bratwurst sausages (any brand or flavour will do, but Johnsonville Brats are popular)

Optional: buns, sauerkraut, mustard, and other toppings of your choice

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to between 300°F and 380°F.
• Brush or spray the air fryer tray with cooking oil.
• Place the bratwurst in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space for the hot air to circulate.
• Cook for 8-15 minutes, turning them over halfway through, until done. The bratwurst is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
• Remove the bratwurst from the air fryer and serve with your choice of toppings and sides.

Tips

• You can cook the bratwurst from frozen, but you will need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
• You can cook the rolls in the air fryer too, for 1-2 minutes, to get them crispy and hot.
• You can melt cheese on the bratwurst by placing the cheese on the sausage and roll, then leaving it in the hot air fryer for 1-2 minutes while it's off.
• You can use aluminium foil in the air fryer, but be aware that cooking more acidic food in foil could cause it to have an acidic taste.

How to store and reheat air-fried bratwurst

Storing and reheating bratwurst is a simple process.

Storing Air-Fried Bratwurst:

Firstly, allow the bratwurst 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.

Reheating Air-Fried Bratwurst:

There are a few ways to reheat your bratwurst, depending on your preference and available equipment.

Air Fryer:

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

Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the bratwurst on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminium foil. Brush the bratwurst with a small amount of oil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through, turning once halfway through.

Stovetop:

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and swirl to coat. Place the bratwurst in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Reheating Frozen Bratwurst:

It is important to ensure that frozen bratwurst is completely thawed before reheating. You can do this by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, you can use one of the above methods to reheat your bratwurst.

What to serve with air-fried bratwurst

There are many side dishes that can accompany air-fried bratwurst. Here are some ideas:

Traditional Sides

For a traditional German experience, serve your air-fried bratwurst with sauerkraut, mustard, and onions. You can also add some Swiss cheese to the mix. If you want to go all out, serve your bratwurst in a soft white bun or a crusty roll.

Salads

If you're looking for something lighter, pair your bratwurst with a simple salad such as a cucumber salad, colslaw, or a heartier German potato salad.

Vegetables

For some extra crunch, try serving your bratwurst with onion rings or crispy, fried onion strings. You could also add some green beans, perhaps with some bacon bits.

Potatoes

For a heartier meal, consider serving your bratwurst with potato-based sides such as French fries, pierogies, or baked potatoes.

Other Meat Dishes

If you're looking for a meatier meal, try serving your bratwurst with bacon or air-fried bacon bits.

Sauces and Condiments

To spice things up, add some buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or curry ketchup. For something more classic, stick to relish, mustard, or mayonnaise.

Toppings for air-fried bratwurst

Air-fried bratwurst is a versatile dish that can be served with various toppings and sides to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Classic Toppings

• Sauerkraut is a traditional German topping for bratwurst and adds a tangy, sharp flavour.
• Mustard is another classic condiment that pairs well with the sausage. Deli-style or German mustard is recommended for the best flavour.
• Onions add a crunchy texture and savoury flavour to the bratwurst. You can chop, caramelise, or fry them as onion strings.

Creative Toppings

• Relish and diced or sliced onions for a sweet and savoury combination.
• Pineapple and BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy combination.
• Jalapenos and bacon bits for a spicy and smoky flavour. You can even make your own bacon bits using an air fryer.
• Buffalo sauce and blue cheese for a creamy and spicy kick.
• Potato chips and ketchup are a favourite combination for kids.
• Swiss cheese with sauerkraut is a tasty variation. You can melt the cheese by placing it on the bratwurst and letting it sit in the residual heat of the air fryer for a minute or two.

Side Dishes

Air-fried bratwurst can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as:

• Onion rings
• Coleslaw
• Cucumber salad
• Pierogies
• Green beans with bacon
• Broccoli salad
• Potato salad
• French fries
• German potato salad
• Creamy coleslaw
• Homemade French fries

The best type of bratwurst for air frying

There are many types of bratwurst available, and the best type for air frying will depend on your personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best bratwurst for air frying:

Type of Meat

Bratwurst is traditionally made with pork, but you can also find bratwurst made with beef, veal, or even turkey. If you have a preference for a specific type of meat, make sure to choose a bratwurst variety that matches.

Brand

Some popular brands of bratwurst include Johnsonville, Boars Head, and store-bought brands. Johnsonville, in particular, offers a wide range of flavours and meat types to choose from.

Flavours and Fillings

You can find bratwurst with various flavours and fillings, such as cheese, jalapenos, or beer. If you want a more traditional bratwurst flavour, stick with the original flavour. However, if you're feeling adventurous or want to add a little extra something to your dish, consider trying a flavoured or filled bratwurst.

Dietary Restrictions

If you have dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or low-carb, make sure to choose a bratwurst that fits your needs. For example, if you're gluten-free, avoid beer brats, as they may contain gluten.

Cooking Method

If you're specifically looking for bratwurst to cook in an air fryer, choose a variety that is uncooked and suitable for grilling or frying. Pre-cooked bratwurst may not yield the best results in an air fryer.

Personal Taste

Ultimately, the best bratwurst for air frying will be the one that you enjoy the most. Experiment with different types of bratwurst and find the one that suits your taste preferences and cooking methods.

Frequently asked questions