Air Fryer Brats

Craving smoky and savory brats but not in the mood to grill under the scorching heat of the sun? Say hello to air fryer brats!

Yes, the air fryer is more than capable of cooking your favorite brats. In fact, I think it’s the superior choice.

It yields the same results, but it’s much faster. Fifteen minutes, and they’re done!

This recipe for air fryer brats is my favorite way to cook up this smokey dish for dinner.

Air Fryer Brats 

Cooking in the air fryer is the surest way to enjoy your favorite sausage, even if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Whether it’s raining, snowing, or just way too hot outside, it doesn’t matter. There’s no outdoor grilling necessary – the air fryer gets the job done.

All you’ll need is a pack of your favorite brats and the trusty air fryer.

There’s absolutely no waiting needed. Just pop them in the air fryer, and 15 minutes later, they’re ready to be devoured.

How to Cook Brats in the Air Fryer

Cooking brats in the air fryer is so simple. And they come out perfect every time. Check out how easy it is to make perfectly cooked brats in minutes!

1. Arrange brats. Place brats in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to stack or overcrowd the brats. 

2. Fry. Air fry the brats at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip them once and continue cooking. 

3. Check for doneness. Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature. A cooked brat will read at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. 

4. Rest. Remove cooked brats from the basket, and allow them to cool for at least 5 minutes. Serve, and enjoy!

How Long Do You Cook Brats in an Air Fryer? 

The great thing about air-frying brats is that they take way less time to cook. They’re done in just 12 to 15 minutes!

Be sure to let the brats rest for 5 minutes post-cooking, though. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the sausage.

Tips for the Best Brats

Want your brats to be the picture of perfection? Follow these quick tips for crisp outside and juicy insides!

• Use frozen brats. Bonus points: there’s no need to thaw beforehand. Just pop frozen brats right into the air fryer. How easy is that? 

• Give them room. Do not stack or overlap the sausages. If it gets too crowded in there, there won’t be enough space for the hot air to move around in.

• Flip halfway. Flip the brats halfway through! That way, both sides will cook perfectly. It will yield that crispy, delightful skin we all love in a brat. 

• Don’t spray the basket. Do not spray non-stick spray on the basket, as it will damage it over time. Use regular cooking oil instead. Or, line it with parchment paper. 

• Place bread under the basket. Place 1 to 2 pieces of bread underneath the air fryer basket. The sausages will release grease and fat as they cook. All of that goes under the basket’s holes and then up the air fryer’s fan and heating coils. You don’t want that. 

• Get the toppings ready. Brats are tasty on their own, but they’re even tastier in a bun, topped with sauteed onions, peppers, and melted cheese. Heaven!  

How to Make Cheese Sauce 

Speaking of cheese, here’s a fantastic cheese sauce recipe for ya! It yields a thick and gooey sauce that pairs beautifully with brats.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 cup beer

1/2 milk

2 cups shredded cheddar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 tablespoons chopped chives

Directions:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute. 

2. Pour the beer and milk and stir until thick, about 3 to 5 minutes. 

3. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese and paprika. Sprinkle with chives.

What Temperature are Brats Done? 

The best way to test for brat doneness is to use a meat thermometer. 

Insert the tip of the needle into the sausage and check its internal temperature.

It should reach at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit for pork and beef sausages and 165 degrees Fahrenheit for chicken and turkey.

It should stay at that temperature for at least 30 seconds.

More Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love

Air Fryer Appetizers
Air Fryer Dumplings
Air Fryer Dinner Recipes
Air Fryer Ribs
Air Fryer Breakfasts