Air Fryer Bratwurst: Cooking Time Perfection

Cooking bratwurst in an air fryer oven is a quick and easy way to make juicy and tender sausages with a crispy exterior. This method is especially useful when you don't want to go outside to fire up the grill or deal with the mess of oil splatter from frying. Depending on the air fryer model and the number of sausages, the cooking time can vary from 8 to 15 minutes at temperatures ranging from 350 to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.

Preheat the air fryer to 350-380°F

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step to achieving that signature crispiness we all love. While it is not always necessary, it is generally recommended, especially if you want your food to have a golden-brown, crispy finish. The good news is that preheating your air fryer is simple and only takes a few minutes.

To preheat your air fryer to 350-380°F, start by ensuring that all removable parts, like the basket, are clean and dry and inserted correctly into the unit. Then, follow these steps:

• If your air fryer has a preheat setting, select this option and set the temperature to 350-380°F. The air fryer will alert you when it has reached the desired temperature.
• If your air fryer does not have a preheat setting, you can manually preheat it by selecting the air fry function and setting the temperature to 350-380°F. Let the air fryer run for 3-5 minutes to ensure it is properly preheated.

Keep in mind that the preheating time may vary depending on the size of your air fryer. Smaller air fryers may only need 2-3 minutes, while larger models or oven-style air fryers may require up to 5 minutes. Always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.

Cook for 12-15 minutes

Cooking bratwurst in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make them at any time of the year. It takes around 12 to 15 minutes to cook juicy and tender bratwurst in an air fryer oven.

First, preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Then, place the bratwurst in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded and have some room around them. Close the air fryer and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping the bratwurst halfway through the cooking time.

The bratwurst is done when it has an internal temperature of at least 160°F. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature. If you have the time, let the bratwurst come to room temperature before cooking, as this will help them cook faster and more evenly.

You can serve the bratwurst with your favourite toppings and sauces. Some popular choices include sauerkraut, mustard, onions, and peppers. Enjoy your delicious and crispy air-fried bratwurst!

Cook from frozen

If you're cooking bratwurst from frozen, you can cook them directly from frozen—there's no need to defrost them first. Preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 375°F and cook for around 17 minutes. If your air fryer needs preheating, add an extra 3–5 minutes to the cooking time.

Bratwurst are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. The outside of the bratwurst should be golden brown and have started to crisp up.

Check the internal temperature

Checking the internal temperature of your bratwurst is crucial to ensure it is cooked properly and safe to eat. The best way to do this is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer probe at a 30° angle near the end of the sausage, aiming for the middle of the sausage. This will give you a more accurate reading of the entire temperature of the sausage. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) to be considered safe to eat.

If you don't have an instant-read thermometer, there are a few alternative methods to check doneness. One is the touch method, where you lightly press your fingertip on the sausage. If it feels firm and springs back, it's likely done. Another approach is the wiggle method, where you use tongs to pick up the sausage and give it a slight wiggle. If the sausage is firm and bouncy, it's an indication that it's cooked. You can also use a cake tester by inserting it into the sausage at an angle, then removing it and placing it against your wrist. If it's hot, the sausage is cooked.

It's important to note that the temperature of the bratwurst will continue to increase slightly even after being removed from the heat. Therefore, if the internal temperature is between 150-160°F, you can remove it from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Check the temperature again to ensure it has reached the recommended 160°F.

Serve with toppings and sides

There are many toppings and sides that go well with bratwurst. The most common side is sauerkraut, which is often served with bratwurst in Germany. You can make your own or buy it from a store. If you want to add a little extra, you can grill your sauerkraut for a few minutes.

Another classic German side to serve with bratwurst is German potato salad, which is made with unpeeled red potatoes, vinegar, and bacon grease. It is served warm, not cold, and is a must-have at your dinner table.

If you're looking for something other than sauerkraut or potato salad, you could try grilled corn on the cob, cabbage and onions, coleslaw, cucumber salad, or cheesy spuds. These sides will complement the flavours of the bratwurst without overwhelming them.

When it comes to toppings, you can't go wrong with mustard, especially German or stoneground mustard. You could also try caramelised onions, peppers, or a combination of the two. If you're feeling adventurous, you might even top your bratwurst with peanut butter, cream cheese, or horseradish.

And don't forget the bun! Bratwurst is often served on a soft white bun or a crusty roll, but you could also use a sliced baguette or hoagie roll.

Frequently asked questions