How to Cook Brats in Air Fryer: Step to Step Reciepe
Hi, everyone! As a chef based in New York, I’ve cooked brats every way imaginable—from charcoal grills on rooftops to cast iron skillets in winter apartments. But the air fryer? It’s hands-down the most consistent, juicy, and fast method I’ve found. Whether you’re short on time or just want that perfect golden snap, this guide will walk you through every step.
- What Are Brats?
- How to Cook Brats in the Air Fryer (Whole Brats Recipe)
- Cooking Brats Cut into Pieces
- Temperature Guide for Brats
- Cooking Time Reference
- Seasoning & Spice Ideas
- Calories and Nutrition
- Making Diet-Friendly Air Fryer Brats
- First Course Ideas with Brats
- Main Course Recipes with Brats
- Alternate Cooking Methods
- Common Mistakes When Cooking Brats in Air Fryer
- My Favorite Air Fryer Brat Recipes
- Variations and Serving Styles
- Brats as Pizza Topping
- FAQ – Top 15 Questions Answered by a Chef
What Are Brats?
“Brats” is short for bratwurst—a traditional German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. They’re typically seasoned with spices like nutmeg, caraway, and marjoram. What makes brats special is their juicy bite and rich flavor, which pairs beautifully with mustard, kraut, or just a cold beer.
How to Cook Brats in the Air Fryer (Whole Brats Recipe)
Here’s my go-to method for perfect brats:
Ingredients:
- 4 bratwursts (fresh or precooked)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- Mustard or dipping sauce of choice
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Place the brats in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp—you’re looking for 160°F (71°C).
- Rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Brats Cut into Pieces
Want smaller chunks for rice bowls, pastas, or appetizers? Here’s how:
Instructions:
- Slice brats into 1-inch pieces.
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Make sure internal pieces reach 160°F.
Perfect for skewers, tacos, or mixing into scrambled eggs.
Temperature Guide for Brats
Getting the temperature right means the difference between juicy and dry:
- Whole brats: 360°F for 12–15 minutes
- Sliced brats: 360°F for 8–10 minutes
- Frozen brats: 370°F for 15–18 minutes
Internal Target Temperature: 160°F (71°C)
Cooking Time Reference
| Brat Type | Temp | Time |
| Fresh Whole | 360°F | 12–15 min |
| Frozen Whole | 370°F | 15–18 min |
| Cut into Pieces | 360°F | 8–10 min |
| Precooked Brats | 360°F | 8–10 min |
Always flip halfway for even browning.
Seasoning & Spice Ideas
Basic brats are great, but here’s how I elevate them:
- Classic: Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper
- Spicy: Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes
- Herby: Thyme, rosemary, fennel
- Beer brat rub: Brown sugar, mustard powder, onion powder
Pro tip: Lightly coat brats in oil and season before cooking.
Calories and Nutrition
On average, one standard pork bratwurst contains:
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~12g
- Fat: ~24g
- Carbs: ~2g
Add buns, sauces, and sides and it quickly adds up—so if you’re watching your intake, skip the roll and go bunless.
Making Diet-Friendly Air Fryer Brats
Here’s how I keep brats lean without losing flavor:
- Choose turkey or chicken brats (130–160 calories)
- Use low-sodium seasoning
- Skip the oil—air fryers crisp naturally
- Serve with steamed veggies or over a salad
My favorite? Chicken apple sausage over arugula with mustard vinaigrette.
First Course Ideas with Brats
Yep, brats can be elegant too:
- Brat Soup: Slice and add to potato or cabbage soup
- Brat Skewers: Cubed brat, grape tomatoes, and mozzarella
- Brat Tapas: Small brat bites with mustard dip
Great for parties or as an amuse-bouche
Main Course Recipes with Brats
- Classic Brat & Sauerkraut: Air fry, slice, layer on kraut
- Brat Pasta: Toss chopped brats into creamy penne with spinach
- Brat Stir-Fry: Pair with bell peppers, onion, soy-ginger glaze
Alternate Cooking Methods
| Method | Time | Notes |
| Microwave | 4–6 min | Less flavor, not recommended |
| Slow Cooker | 4 hrs (low) | Add onions, beer or broth |
| Stovetop | 10–12 min | Simmer, then sear |
| Oven | 375°F, 20m | Flip halfway |
| Clay Pot | 60 min | Super juicy, rustic flavor |
| Multicooker | 15 min | Pressure cook then crisp |
Common Mistakes When Cooking Brats in Air Fryer
- Overcrowding: Leads to uneven cooking
- Skipping the flip: One side stays pale
- Not checking internal temp: Undercooked brats are unsafe
- Using frozen brats without preheating: Ends up rubbery
Always give brats room to breathe!
My Favorite Air Fryer Brat Recipes
- Beer-Braised Brats (NY Pub Style): Soak raw brats in lager 30 min, then air fry
- Sweet & Spicy Brats: Glaze with honey and chipotle before cooking
- Brats with Apple Slaw: Fresh and crunchy contrast
Variations and Serving Styles
- Brat Tacos: Serve with cabbage slaw and hot sauce
- Brat Sliders: On mini buns with pickles
- Brat Breakfast Bowl: Over eggs and sweet potatoes
- Keto Brats: Bunless, over cauliflower mash
Brats as Pizza Topping
A little quirky, but hear me out: Slice up leftover air-fried brats and toss them on a pizza with onions, peppers, and mustard drizzle. Perfect game-day snack.
FAQ – Top 15 Questions Answered by a Chef
Can I cook frozen brats directly in the air fryer?
Yes, you absolutely can. I do this when I’m in a rush. Just add 2–3 extra minutes and bump the temp slightly (around 370°F). Still, I recommend thawing when you have the time—it helps with more even cooking.
Do I need to pierce the brats before cooking?
On my own experience—don’t do it. Piercing lets all the juices escape. Brats are best when sealed so the fat renders inside and keeps them moist.
How do I know when brats are done?
I always use a meat thermometer—look for 160°F in the center. Juices should run clear. If you cut and see pink, give them another 2–3 minutes.
Should I oil the brats?
Sometimes I do, especially if they’re really lean or precooked. A light brush of olive oil helps with browning, but it’s optional in an air fryer.
Can I stack brats in the air fryer?
From my trial and error—nope. They won’t cook evenly. Always arrange in a single layer with some space.
What buns go best with brats?
I love pretzel buns. But a good brioche or even a crusty roll works too. Toasting the bun lightly in the air fryer makes a big difference.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Stone-ground mustard or spicy brown mustard is classic. But I also love a mix of Dijon and honey for a sweet kick.
How do I store and reheat leftover brats?
Store in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes—it crisps them right back up.
Are brats gluten-free?
Some are, some aren’t. Always check labels. I usually buy locally from a butcher who makes gluten-free batches.
Can I use the air fryer liner or parchment?
Sure, but make sure it’s perforated so air circulates. I only use it when adding sauces or cheese.
Can I air fry cheese-stuffed brats?
Yes, and they’re amazing. Just watch for bursting—lower temp (350°F) helps reduce cheese blowout.
What veggies go well with air-fried brats?
I often pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or peppers—just toss them in the basket alongside the brats.
How do I cook beer brats in an air fryer?
I soak them in beer for 30–60 minutes beforehand. Dry them off, then follow the usual cooking method. Adds flavor but keeps texture crisp.
Can I meal prep brats?
Absolutely. I cook a batch on Sunday and use them throughout the week in bowls, sandwiches, or salads.
What’s your #1 brat tip?
From years of grilling and air frying—I always rest brats for 3–5 minutes before serving. It seals in the juices and makes them irresistible.