Tillie Doyle
Cooking bratwurst in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make them all year round. It is healthier than traditional frying methods as it requires less oil, and it is also a fast and mess-free way to cook. You can cook the brats at a variety of temperatures, but they are typically done in 10-15 minutes, and they should reach an internal temperature of 160-165°F. You can serve them in a bun with toppings such as mustard, sauerkraut, and onions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preheat temperature | 300°F-380°F (150°C-193°C) |
| Cooking temperature | 350°F-375°F (190°C) |
| Cooking time | 7-15 minutes |
| Internal temperature | 160°F-165°F |
| Cooking spray | Cooking/spray oil |
| Foil | Aluminium foil with holes |
| Liners | Air fryer/parchment paper |
| Toppings | Sauerkraut, onions, mustard, ketchup, relish, etc. |
| Sides | Salads, peppers, onions, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Preheat the air fryer
Preheating your air fryer is an important step in cooking juicy and tender brats. While some air fryer models may not require preheating, it is generally advisable to do so. The ideal temperature for preheating your air fryer is between 350°F and 380°F (about 175°C to 190°C). At this temperature, you can achieve a nice crispy exterior on your brats without drying them out.
Before preheating, prepare your air fryer basket by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with disposable parchment paper or aluminium foil (with holes in it). This step ensures easy cleanup after your brats are done. If using aluminium foil, be aware that it may impart an acidic taste to your brats, so it is best avoided if you are cooking acidic foods.
Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to arrange the brats. Place them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded and have some space around them. This arrangement allows the hot air to circulate evenly, cooking your brats uniformly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the brats in batches.
After arranging the brats, you can move on to the cooking step. Set a timer for 5 minutes initially and then turn the brats over, cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes. The total cooking time will depend on your preference for doneness and the size of your brats. For room-temperature brats, keep an eye on them around the 5-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
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Cook brats in the air fryer
Cooking brats in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make them juicy and tender with a perfect texture and flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking brats in an air fryer:
Firstly, preheat your air fryer. The ideal temperature varies across sources, with suggestions ranging from 300°F to 380°F (150°C) to 190°C. It is recommended to spray the fryer basket with cooking spray or use an air fryer disposable parchment liner to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Next, place the brats in the air fryer basket. Ensure that the brats are in a single layer and not overcrowded, leaving some room or space around them for the hot air to circulate. It is important not to overlap the brats so that they cook evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the brats in batches.
Now, it's time to cook the brats. The cooking time varies depending on the source, with most recommending a cooking time of 12 to 15 minutes. However, some sources suggest a shorter cooking time of 8 to 10 minutes, while others suggest cooking for 5 minutes, turning them over, and then cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. It is generally recommended to flip the brats halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning on both sides.
Finally, remove the brats from the air fryer and serve. The brats are considered done when they reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F to 165°F, as measured with an instant-read thermometer or a digital meat thermometer. Serve the brats on your favourite brat buns or crusty rolls, and top them with sauerkraut, mustard, onions, or your favourite toppings. Enjoy!
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Flip the brats halfway through
Flipping the brats halfway through the cooking process is an important step to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides of the sausages. Depending on your air fryer model and the level of doneness you prefer, the halfway point will be somewhere between 5 to 8 minutes into the cooking process.
It is not mandatory to flip the brats, but doing so will help achieve a consistent colour and texture on both sides of the sausages. This is especially important if you are cooking for a crowd, as it ensures all the brats look and taste the same. Flipping the sausages also helps to prevent them from burning on one side, which can happen quickly in an air fryer due to the high heat and direct contact with the cooking surface.
When flipping the brats, use tongs or a spatula to gently lift and turn each sausage. Be careful not to pierce the sausages, as this can release juices and affect the final texture and taste. Try to flip the sausages only once to minimise the risk of overhandling and drying out the meat.
If you are cooking a large batch of brats, it is important to only flip the sausages when you can easily slide a spatula or tongs underneath them. If you try to flip too early, you may end up squashing the sausages or having them stick to the cooking surface. For this reason, it is also important to ensure your air fryer basket is properly greased or lined before adding the brats.
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Cook in batches
Cooking brats in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make them juicy and tender with a perfect texture and flavour. The cooking time may vary depending on the brand, wattage, and size of your air fryer, as well as the number of brats you are cooking. Therefore, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure they are cooked evenly and thoroughly.
To cook brats in batches, first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F-380°F (190°C-193°C). Spray the fryer basket with cooking spray or use an air fryer disposable parchment liner to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Next, place the brats in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded and leaving some room around them for hot air to circulate. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Set a timer for 5 minutes for the first batch.
After 5 minutes, turn each brat over and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, depending on how well-done you like them. The total cooking time for each batch should be around 8-15 minutes. If you are cooking frozen brats, add 3 minutes to the total cooking time.
Once the first batch is done, remove them from the air fryer and keep them warm while you cook the remaining brats in batches, following the same steps. Serve the brats hot with your favourite toppings and sides, such as mustard, sauerkraut, onions, peppers, or buns.
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Serve with toppings
Once your brats are cooked to perfection in your air fryer, it's time to move on to the best part: toppings! The beauty of bratwurst is that it serves as a blank canvas for a variety of toppings, allowing you to customise your meal to your heart's content. Here are some topping ideas to get you started:
Mustard
A classic choice, mustard is a popular condiment that pairs perfectly with bratwurst. Whether you prefer the sharp tang of German mustard or the smooth creaminess of yellow mustard, a generous dollop on top of your brat will elevate the flavour. Don't be afraid to explore different types of mustard, such as spicy brown or honey mustard, to find your favourite variety.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, a German staple, is another excellent topping option. This fermented cabbage dish adds a crunchy texture and a tangy flavour that complements the juicy bratwurst beautifully. Look for sauerkraut at your local grocery store or, if you're feeling adventurous, try making your own at home.
Onions
Sliced or chopped onions are a simple yet effective topping for bratwurst. You can sauté or caramelise them for added flavour, or serve them raw for a crisp texture. If you're feeling creative, experiment with different types of onions, such as sweet onions or scallions, to add a unique twist to your dish.
Peppers
Peppers, especially when cooked, make a great addition to your bratwurst. Bell peppers, in particular, offer a mild, sweet flavour that balances the savoury notes of the brat. You can slice them into rings or strips and cook them until slightly charred for a delightful texture and taste.
Buns and Rolls
While not exactly a topping, serving your bratwurst in a bun or a roll transforms it into a hearty sandwich. Opt for soft white buns or go for crusty rolls, depending on your preference. This makes the dish more substantial and easier to eat, especially if you're serving it at a party or gathering.
Other Topping Ideas
Feel free to get creative and experiment with other toppings. Some people enjoy adding relish, ketchup, or even curry ketchup (for a spicy kick) to their bratwurst. You can also serve your brat with a side of pickles, salads, or roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to customise your brat to your taste preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
Cooking brats in a power air fryer takes 12 to 15 minutes.
The air fryer should be set to 350°F. Some sources suggest preheating to 380°F, while others suggest 300°F.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or use an air fryer disposable parchment liner.
Place the uncooked brats in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
The brats are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F to 165°F.
