Air-Fried Brats: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Cooking brats in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a tasty, low-carb dinner. You can have juicy, tender, and crispy brats on the table in under 15 minutes, with minimal cleanup required. The air fryer method is a great alternative to grilling, especially if you live in a colder climate, and it's a good option for serving at parties, BBQs, and Game Days.

Air fryer brat cooking times and temperatures

Cooking brats in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make them juicy and tender on the inside, with a crispy golden-brown exterior. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the type of air fryer you have, the brand of brats you are using, and your desired level of doneness.

If your air fryer requires preheating, set the temperature to 350°F to 375°F (180°C to 190°C). Place the brats in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other, so that the hot air can circulate around them. If you are using uncooked brats, bring them to room temperature before air frying, as this will help them cook more evenly.

For fully cooked brats, cook them for 12 to 15 minutes at 350°F, or for about 12 to 14 minutes at 375°F. If you are using uncooked brats, add a minute or two to the cooking time. Flip the brats halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides. The brats are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F to 165°F.

If you prefer your brats well-done, you can cook them for an additional 3 to 5 minutes after flipping them. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your air fryer and the number of brats you are cooking. You may need to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.

How to prepare your air fryer for cooking brats

To prepare your air fryer for cooking brats, you'll first want to preheat it. Depending on the model, you should set the temperature between 350°F and 375°F. If your air fryer doesn't require preheating, simply set the temperature and place the brats inside.

Before placing the brats in the air fryer, you should spray some oil or use cooking spray in the basket to prevent sticking. You can also line the basket with parchment paper, or aluminium foil with holes in it, for easier cleanup.

Arrange the brats in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other, so that the hot air can circulate around them. If your air fryer can't accommodate all the sausages, cook them in batches.

How to prepare brats for the air fryer

Preparing brats for the air fryer is a quick and easy process. You can use any brand of bratwurst you like, but popular options include Johnsonville, Niman Ranch, and Boar's Head. Johnsonville and Boar's Head offer uncooked bratwurst, while Niman Ranch's are usually fully cooked. You can also try your local butcher for homemade beer brats or ones with fillings like cheese or jalapenos.

Before cooking, bring the brats to room temperature. This will help them cook more evenly and quickly. You can also pierce the meat beforehand to prevent it from exploding in the air fryer, although this is not a mandatory step.

To cook the brats, preheat your air fryer to 350°F-375°F (150°C-190°C). Spray some oil in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking, although this is also optional. Place the brats in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching so that air can circulate around them.

Cooking time will depend on your air fryer model and whether your brats are fully cooked or uncooked. For uncooked brats, cook for 12-15 minutes at 350°F, or 12-14 minutes at 375°F. Flip the brats halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides. If your brats are fully cooked, you can go by appearance—they should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Fully cooked brats will take about a minute or two less to cook.

How to serve air-fried brats

Once your brats are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it's time to serve them up! But how do you make the most of these juicy, flavourful sausages? Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose Your Base

Start by selecting a base for your bratwurst. Soft white buns or crusty rolls are classic choices, and they go well with almost any topping combination. If you're watching your carb intake, you can skip the roll altogether or opt for a low-carb bread option.

Toppings Galore

Now, it's time to get creative with toppings! Sauerkraut and mustard are a popular duo, providing a tangy and sharp flavour profile. If you're feeling adventurous, explore different types of mustard, like Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce or Outback Blooming Onion Sauce. For a more traditional take, go for caramelised onions or crispy fried onion strings. You can also add some crunch with potato chips or kettle-cooked chips on the side.

Sides to Impress

Don't forget to round out your meal with some mouth-watering sides! German Potato Salad, creamy coleslaw, onion rings, or homemade French fries are all excellent choices. If you're looking for something a little different, try serving your brats with a side of Bangers and Mash, Sauerkraut and Sausages with Apples, or even Easy Homemade Jambalaya.

Don't Forget the Drinks

What's a brat without a refreshing beverage on the side? For adults, a crisp beer or a summery cider might be the perfect pairing. For the kids or those avoiding alcohol, a tangy lemonade or ice-cold iced tea could hit the spot.

Presentation Counts

Finally, don't underestimate the power of presentation. Arrange your brats and sides on a platter or board, adding some fresh herbs or sliced lemons for a pop of colour. This will not only make your meal look more appealing but will also impress your guests or family members.

So, there you have it! Air-fried brats are a versatile and delicious option that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion, from busy weeknights to backyard BBQs. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and sides as you create your ultimate bratwurst feast.

How to store leftover air-fried brats

Storing leftover air-fried brats is simple and will ensure your delicious meal can be enjoyed again in the future.

Firstly, it's important to let the brats cool down after cooking. Then, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the cooked brats for up to 2-3 months. To prevent them from sticking together, wrap them individually in plastic wrap.

When you're ready to enjoy your brats again, simply reheat them in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 320-350°F and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This will ensure your brats are heated thoroughly and retain their juicy texture.

Frequently asked questions