Air fryers is really popular these days and they kinda changed how we cook at home. They make food crispy like deep frying but uses way less oil. That’s why lots of people buy them. One thing you should try is cooking bratwurst in an air fryer. This German sausage usually gets grilled or boiled, but air frying can be even better.
Making bratwursts the old way can take forever and leave a big mess. Boiling and grilling need you to watch the stove or the grill. With an air fryer its fast and easy. The hot air inside cooks each brat evenly and makes the skin nice and crunchy. At the same time the inside stays juicy and tasty.
Also, cooking with an air fryer is healthier. You barely need any oil, so you save calories and fat. And you still get that real sausage flavor. You don’t feel bad eating one or two because they aren’t soaked in oil.
If you wanna learn how to cook perfect air fryer brats, keep reading. We got tips and tricks so your sausages turn out awesome every time. Let’s get started and bring some tasty brats to your table!
What are Bratwursts?
Bratwurst is a German sausage made from finely chopped meat—usually pork, veal, or beef—and spiced up with things like pepper, garlic, and marjoram. The word “bratwurst” comes from “brät,” which means chopped meat, and “Wurst,” which means sausage. People in Germany have been eating these sausages since the 14th century at fairs and cookouts.
There’s more than one kind of bratwurst. Some of the usual types are:
- Regensburger: This one is made of pork and often has garlic, marjoram, and pepper for taste.
- Thüringer: From Thuringia, it’s a bit coarser and stronger flavored with caraway and garlic.
- Weißwurst: A white sausage made with veal, parsley, lemon, and cardamom. Folks usually eat it with sweet mustard.
Bratwursts pack a lot of protein. One sausage has about 250–300 calories, depending on what meat is used. They taste great and you can cook ’em many ways: grill, boil, or air fry.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Brats?
An air fryer cooks by blowing hot air all around the food. That means your bratwurst gets a crunchy outside without drowning in oil. Here’s why it’s cool:
- Healthier: You use a fraction of the oil so there’s less fat and calories.
- Keeps flavor: The sausage stays juicy inside and locks in all the spices.
- Fast & easy: No standing over a grill or pot. Just set the temp and timer, then wait.
- Less mess: No grease splatters all over your kitchen.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Brats
You don’t need much to make great air fryer bratwursts:
- Bratwurst sausages: Pick pork, veal, or a mix—whatever you like.
- Oil: Just a little drizzle helps them get extra crispy.
- Optional add-ins: Sliced onions, bell peppers, or sauerkraut are tasty if you air fry them together with the brats.
And for serving:
- Buns or rolls: Pretzel rolls or regular buns work great.
- Condiments: Mustard, ketchup, mayo, or a spicy aioli—your choice.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Brats
It’s super simple to cook bratwursts in an air fryer. Just follow these steps:
- Preheat: Turn the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat for 3–5 minutes.
- Score the sausages: Lightly slice the top of each brat to stop it from bursting.
- Prep veggies (if using): Slice onions and peppers so they cook at the same time.
- Cook: Lay the brats in a single layer in the basket. Air fry 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway.
- Check temp: Use a meat thermometer. They’re done at 160°F (71°C). If you want ’em crunchier, give ’em 2–3 more minutes.
Tips:
- If your brats are thick, they might need a bit more time.
- Always make sure they reach 160°F so they’re safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Time to serve your crispy brats! Here’s some ideas:
- Classic: In a bun with mustard and sauerkraut.
- Fun twist: Top with sautéed peppers, spicy kimchi, or avocado salsa.
Good sides to go with:
- Fries: Regular or sweet potato fries are great.
- Potato salad: Creamy or vinegary, both match well.
What to drink:
- Beer: A light lager or wheat beer.
- Soda: Cola or a craft soda.
- Wine: A cold riesling or white wine.
Common Mistakes When Cooking Brats in an Air Fryer
Even though it’s easy, watch out for these slip-ups:
- Overcrowding: If you pack them too close, the air can’t move well and they won’t crisp evenly.
- Skipping preheat: This can make them cook slow or uneven.
- Wrong temp: Too hot burns the outside while the inside stays raw. Too low and they’re rubbery.
- No thermometer: Without checking the temp, you might undercook or overcook them.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Can you cook frozen brats in an air fryer?
Yes you can cook frozen brats. Just add a few more minutes—about 15–18 total—and check the temperature to make sure they’re done.
How long do you cook brats in an air fryer?
It usually takes around 12–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Flip them halfway so they cook evenly.
Do I need to pierce brats before cooking?
You don’t have to but slicing the top can stop them bursting and make them crispier.
Can you use other types of sausages in the air fryer?
Yeah! Italian, turkey, chicken sausage—they all work. Just watch the cooking time and check the internal temp.
What temperature do you cook brats in an air fryer?
The best is 375°F (190°C). That gives the right balance of a crispy outside and juicy inside.
air fryer brats
Equipment
- 1 air fryer
- 1 tongs
- 1 meat thermometer (optional)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
Ingredients
- 4 pieces bratwurst sausages About 1 pound or 450 g.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 15 ml.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder 5 g.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder 5 g.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 2.5 g.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- 4 pieces hamburger buns Optional.
- Sautéed onions and bell peppers For serving, optional.
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Pat the bratwursts dry with a paper towel. Coat them evenly with the marinade.
- Place the seasoned bratwursts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch for even cooking.
- Cook the bratwursts in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- If desired, toast the hamburger buns in the air fryer for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time until golden brown.
- Remove the bratwursts and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve in buns with sautéed onions and bell peppers if desired.
