Easy and Delicious Air Fryer Brats Recipe | Perfectly Juicy Brats
Bratwurst, or “brats” for short, is a classic sausage loved for its savory flavor and juicy texture. Whether you’re preparing them for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, cooking brats in an air fryer is a game-changer. With the air fryer, you can achieve crispy, golden brown exteriors and perfectly juicy interiors in a fraction of the time it would take on a grill or stovetop. This Air Fryer Brats Recipe is not only easy and quick but also mess-free, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Air-fried brats are versatile and pair wonderfully with a range of sides like sauerkraut, potato salad, or a soft bun topped with mustard and onions. Let’s dive into the full recipe, including prep time, nutrition, instructions, and everything you need to create the perfect bratwurst meal.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American / German
- Course: Main Course
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Active Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Resting Time: 3 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~280 calories per bratwurst
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the recipe:
- Bratwursts: 4 (uncooked) bratwurst sausages
- Cooking Oil Spray: Optional, for lightly greasing the air fryer basket
- Buns: 4 (optional, for serving)
- Toppings: Mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions, or your favorite condiments
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer (any model with a temperature range of up to 400°F)
- Tongs (for flipping the brats)
- Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 2g (varies with toppings and buns)
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: ~750mg
Instructions
1. Prep the Brats and Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the brats start cooking immediately, resulting in even browning.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a cooking oil spray to prevent sticking. If your air fryer has a nonstick surface, you can skip this step.
2. Arrange the Brats
- Place the bratwurst sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking.
3. Cook the Brats
- Cook the brats at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. Flip the sausages halfway through cooking using tongs.
- For a crispy exterior, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
4. Check for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. They should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- If they haven’t reached the correct temperature, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes and recheck.
5. Rest the Brats
- Remove the cooked brats from the air fryer and let them rest for 3 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
6. Assemble and Serve
- Serve the brats as is or in a soft bun. Top with your favorite condiments like mustard, sauerkraut, or caramelized onions. Pair with your preferred side dishes and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Brats
- Avoid Pricking the Brats: Do not poke holes in the sausages before cooking. This prevents juices from escaping, keeping the brats moist.
- Customize Cooking Time: Air fryers vary in power, so adjust the time slightly based on your appliance.
- Experiment with Flavors: For a unique twist, brush the brats with beer or barbecue sauce before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Air-fried brats are versatile and pair well with:
- Classic German Sides: Sauerkraut, potato salad, or spaetzle
- American Favorites: Baked beans, coleslaw, or crispy fries
- Healthy Options: A fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables
Why Cook Brats in an Air Fryer?
- Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Less Mess: No need to clean up greasy pans or outdoor grills.
- Perfectly Cooked Every Time: The air fryer delivers even cooking and a crispy exterior without drying out the sausage.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Brats Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy bratwurst. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day celebrations, or just satisfying a sausage craving, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. With minimal effort, you can achieve juicy, flavorful brats that are sure to impress family and friends. Give it a try and let the air fryer work its magic!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.