How Long to Cook Brats in Air Fryer at 400: Temperature Mode Cooking Time
Hey there! People always ask me, “How long should I cook brats in the air fryer at 400°F?” And I love that question, because it tells me you’re ready to step into flavor town—fast. I’ve cooked bratwurst every which way: on the grill, in beer baths, on the stovetop… but nothing beats the convenience of the air fryer when you want crispy, juicy brats in under 15 minutes. So today, I’m giving you the straight-up times, temps, and all the chef tips you need to nail it every single time.
Cooking Time Table for Brats in Air Fryer at 400°F
| Bratwurst Type | Cooking Time | Flip Halfway? | Notes |
| Raw brats (uncooked) | 12–14 mins | Yes | Internal temp: 160°F |
| Pre-cooked brats | 7–8 mins | Optional | Just heat through & crisp |
| Frozen brats | 15–17 mins | Yes | Add 1–2 extra minutes |
Air Fryer Temperature Guidelines for Brats
| Temp (°F) | Result | Chef’s Take |
| 350°F | Juicy, softer skin | Good for slow cooking or thick brats |
| 400°F | Crisp skin, juicy inside | My go-to for fast, flavorful brats |
| 425°F | Crispier but risk overcooking | Use for final 1–2 mins only |
FAQ – 15 Questions About Cooking Brats at 400°F
How long should I cook raw brats in the air fryer at 400°F?
On my experience, 12 to 14 minutes is the sweet spot. I flip them once halfway through and check for 160°F internal temp. Juicy on the inside, crispy casing on the outside—perfect.
Can I cook frozen brats in the air fryer without thawing?
Absolutely. I’ve done it many times—just bump the cook time up to 15–17 minutes and make sure to flip them. I also poke them once with a fork halfway to release steam.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
I always do. A 2–3 minute preheat at 400°F gives you a crispier sear right from the start. You’ll get a better sizzle and more even cook.
Should I pierce the brats before cooking?
I used to—but not anymore. I’ve learned that piercing can dry them out. I keep them whole and let the pressure build inside for juicier bites.
Can I add onions or peppers to the air fryer with the brats?
Definitely! I slice onions and bell peppers, toss them with olive oil, and add them halfway through. They roast up beautifully while the brats finish.
Do I need to turn the brats while cooking?
Do I need to turn the brats while cooking?
What should the internal temperature be when brats are done?
160°F is the magic number. I use a meat thermometer every time, especially with raw brats. That’s when you know they’re fully cooked and safe.
Can I use BBQ sauce in the air fryer with brats?
Yes, but only at the end! I brush it on during the last 2 minutes so it doesn’t burn. I’ve tried adding it early—big mistake, trust me.
Are air fryer brats as good as grilled?
On my experience, yes—especially when you’re in a rush. You won’t get the smoky flavor, but the snap and juiciness are absolutely there.
What’s the best way to serve air fryer brats?
I like to toast buns in the air fryer during the last 2 minutes, then top the brat with mustard, sauerkraut, or caramelized onions. Classic, simple, perfect.
Can I cook more than 4 brats at once?
I’ve tried cramming them in—and it backfires. Give them space to breathe. Four at a time max in a standard basket-style air fryer.
Should I oil the air fryer basket?
I give it a quick spray with olive oil just to prevent sticking. Not mandatory, but it helps cleanup and gives a bit more crispiness to the skin.
Do air fryer brats dry out easily?
Only if you overcook them. I’ve found that once they hit 160°F, you want to pull them right away. Letting them sit inside too long will zap the moisture.
Can I reheat leftover brats in the air fryer?
Yes! I do it at 350°F for about 4–5 minutes. They come out tasting almost like fresh. Add a little water or cover with foil to keep them juicy.
What’s your personal trick for the best air fryer brats?
I always let them rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. It locks in the juices. And sometimes I rub them with garlic butter during the last minute for extra flavor—game changer.