Can Brats Be Cooked in an Air Fryer Perfectly Crispy Every Time

Yes, brats can be cooked to perfect crispiness in an air fryer—achieving a golden, juicy result in under 15 minutes with minimal effort. Preheating and proper spacing ensure even browning and a satisfying snap, making the air fryer a game-changer for quick, mess-free bratwurst any day of the week.

Key Takeaways

• Cook brats at 375°F: Achieve perfect crispiness in 12-15 minutes.
• Preheat the air fryer: Ensures even cooking and better texture.
• Flip halfway through: Promotes uniform browning and juiciness.
• Use minimal oil: Enhances crispiness without excess fat.
• Check internal temperature: Ensure brats reach 160°F for safety.
• Rest before serving: Lets juices redistribute for optimal flavor.

Can Brats Be Cooked in an Air Fryer Perfectly Crispy Every Time

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy, smoky bratwurst with that perfect snap of a well-cooked casing. Whether you’re tailgating, grilling on a summer evening, or just craving a hearty meal, brats are a go-to favorite. But what if I told you there’s a way to get that same delicious result without firing up the grill, dealing with smoke, or standing over a hot stove? Enter: the air fryer. Yes, that little kitchen gadget that’s been taking over countertops might just be the secret to cooking brats perfectly crispy every time.

I remember the first time I tried cooking brats in my air fryer. I was skeptical. I’d always grilled them or simmered them on the stove. But after a long day, I didn’t want to wait for the grill to heat up. I tossed a couple of brats into the air fryer basket, set the timer, and crossed my fingers. To my surprise, ten minutes later, I pulled out two beautifully browned, juicy sausages with a satisfying crunch. Since then, I’ve experimented with different types, brands, and techniques—some hits, some misses. But now? I’m confident I can share a foolproof method that delivers perfectly crispy brats in an air fryer—no grill required. And if you’ve ever wondered, “Can brats be cooked in an air fryer?”, the answer is a resounding yes—and here’s how to do it right.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Cooking Brats

If you’ve ever tried to cook brats on the stove or grill, you know it’s not always a walk in the park. Undercooked? Dry? Burnt? Soggy? All too common. The air fryer solves many of these issues with its unique cooking method: rapid hot air circulation. This creates a convection effect that mimics deep frying or grilling, but with far less oil and effort.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why It Matters for Brats)

Air fryers use a heating element and a high-powered fan to circulate hot air around food, creating a crispy exterior while locking in moisture inside. For brats, this means:

• Even browning across the entire surface, not just where it touches the pan or grill.
• Less oil needed—most brats release their own fat, which the air fryer uses to crisp the casing naturally.
• Faster cooking than grilling (especially in cold weather) and more consistent than stovetop simmering.
• Minimal mess—no grease splatter, no smoke, and no need to flip constantly.

Think of it like a mini convection oven that’s focused on one task: making food crispy. And brats? They’re practically made for this.

The Benefits of Air-Fried Brats Over Other Methods

Let’s compare the air fryer to the usual suspects:

• Grilling: Great flavor, but requires setup, weather, and constant attention. Also, flare-ups can char the casing before the inside is done.
• Stovetop (pan-frying or simmering): Easy, but often results in soggy casings or uneven browning. Simmering first helps, but adds time.
• Baking: Hands-off, but can dry out brats if not monitored. Also, less crispy unless you broil at the end (which adds more steps).

The air fryer strikes a sweet spot: fast, crispy, juicy, and low-effort. Plus, you can cook multiple brats at once without crowding. And if you’re cooking for one or two? No need to heat up a whole grill or oven. Just pop them in, set the timer, and go.

How to Cook Brats in an Air Fryer: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to try it yourself? Here’s my tried-and-true method for cooking brats in an air fryer perfectly crispy every time. This works for fresh, frozen, smoked, or uncooked brats—with a few adjustments.

Step 1: Choose Your Brats

Not all brats are created equal. For best results:

• Fresh brats (raw, never frozen): These cook faster and crisp better. Look for brands like Johnsonville, Klements, or local butchers.
• Frozen brats: Can be cooked directly from frozen, but add 3–5 minutes to cook time. Thawing first gives better results.
• Pre-cooked/smoked brats: These just need reheating and crisping. Cook at a lower temp for less time to avoid drying out.

Pro tip: If you’re using fresh brats, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

Most air fryers don’t require preheating, but doing so helps with consistent browning. I recommend:

• Preheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
• Use the “air fry” or “convection” setting.

If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, just set the timer for 5 minutes before adding the brats.

Step 3: Arrange Brats in the Basket

This is crucial for even cooking:

• Don’t overcrowd—leave space between each brat so air can circulate.
• For 4–6 brats, a standard 5.8-quart air fryer works perfectly.
• No need to oil the basket—brats release their own fat.
• Place them in a single layer, not stacked.

Bonus tip: For extra crispiness, lightly brush the brats with a teaspoon of oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado). But honestly? Not necessary.

Step 4: Set Time and Temperature

Here’s the magic formula:

Brat Type	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Fresh (raw)	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	Flip halfway
Frozen (thawed)	375°F (190°C)	12–14 minutes	Flip halfway
Frozen (not thawed)	375°F (190°C)	14–16 minutes	Flip halfway, check internal temp
Pre-cooked/smoked	350°F (175°C)	6–8 minutes	Flip halfway, avoid overcooking

Always flip the brats halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning on all sides. Use tongs to avoid piercing the casing (which can cause juices to leak).

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Brats are done when:

• The internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for fresh brats (use a meat thermometer).
• The exterior is golden brown and crispy.
• There’s a slight sizzle when you press them gently.

Pre-cooked brats just need to be heated through—no need to reach 160°F, but they should feel hot to the touch.

Tips and Tricks for Crispy, Juicy Brats Every Time

Even with the right method, small details make a big difference. Here are my top tips—learned the hard way—to ensure your air-fried brats are perfectly crispy every time.

Don’t Skip the Flip

I’ve seen people skip flipping, thinking “air circulates everywhere.” But brats are round, and the bottom will always be slightly less browned. Flipping halfway ensures uniform crispiness and prevents one side from overcooking.

Use a Meat Thermometer (Seriously)

It’s the only way to guarantee food safety and perfect doneness. Insert the probe into the center of the thickest part. If you don’t have one, cut into a brat to check—but that’s a last resort (and wastes juice).

Let Brats Rest for 2–3 Minutes

Just like steak, brats need a short rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve immediately, and they’ll be juicier with every bite.

Add Flavor with a Quick Simmer (Optional)

Want that classic “grilled brat” flavor without the grill? Try the “simmer and sear” method:

1. Simmer brats in beer, broth, or water with onions and garlic for 8–10 minutes.
2. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until crispy.

This gives you tender, flavorful insides and a crispy outside. I love using a local IPA for extra flavor.

Clean Your Basket After Cooking

Brats release fat, which can smoke or leave residue. Clean the basket with warm, soapy water or in the dishwasher. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth between batches prevents smoke and keeps flavors clean.

Experiment with Seasonings

While brats are flavorful on their own, you can enhance them:

• Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder before cooking.
• Add a drizzle of hot honey or mustard after cooking.
• Serve with caramelized onions or sauerkraut in the air fryer basket (add them in the last 3–4 minutes).

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Even the best methods can go wrong. Here are the most common mistakes I’ve made—and how to fix them.

Overcrowding the Basket

Packing too many brats together blocks airflow. Result? Pale, soft sausages that steam instead of crisp. Rule of thumb: Leave at least 1 inch between each brat. If your basket is small, cook in batches.

Not Flipping or Shaking

Air fryers circulate air, but the bottom of the brat still gets less exposure. Flipping halfway is non-negotiable. If you’re cooking other items (like onions or peppers), give the basket a quick shake too.

Using Too High a Temperature

Cranking the heat to 400°F might seem like a shortcut, but it burns the casing before the inside is done. Stick to 375°F for fresh brats. For pre-cooked, go even lower (350°F).

Ignoring Internal Temperature

Color isn’t always a reliable indicator. A brat can look done on the outside but be undercooked inside. Always use a thermometer. Safety first!

Forgetting to Pat Dry After Simmering

If you use the simmer-and-sear method, dry the brats thoroughly. Wet brats steam in the air fryer, killing crispiness.

Cooking from Frozen Without Adjusting Time

Frozen brats need more time. Don’t assume they’ll cook in the same time as fresh ones. Add 2–4 minutes and check the internal temp.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Ways to Enjoy Air-Fried Brats

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer isn’t just for cooking brats—it’s a whole meal machine.

Bratwurst Sandwiches with Crispy Toppings

Air fry brats, then add them to toasted buns. Top with:

• Caramelized onions (air fry with a splash of oil and sugar for 8 minutes).
• Sauerkraut (warm in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes).
• Pickled peppers or jalapeños (add for last 2 minutes to soften).

Pro tip: Toast the buns in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes at 350°F for extra crunch.

One-Pot Brat and Potato Dinners

Cut baby potatoes into quarters. Toss with oil, salt, and pepper. Add to the air fryer basket with brats. Cook at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway. You’ll get crispy brats and tender, golden potatoes in one go.

Brat Skewers with Veggies

Cut brats into 1-inch pieces. Thread onto skewers with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway. Serve with mustard or tzatziki.

Breakfast Brats with Hash Browns

Air fry brats, then remove. Add frozen hash browns to the basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway. Add brats back in for the last 2–3 minutes to reheat. Serve with eggs and toast.

Brat Nachos or Tacos

Slice air-fried brats into rounds. Layer on tortilla chips with cheese, black beans, and jalapeños. Air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes until cheese melts. Top with sour cream and cilantro.

Or, serve brat slices in soft tacos with slaw and chipotle mayo. The air fryer keeps everything warm and crispy without drying out.

Final Thoughts: Yes, Brats Can Be Cooked in an Air Fryer—Perfectly

So, can brats be cooked in an air fryer? Absolutely. Not just cooked—perfectly crispy every time. The air fryer delivers the golden, snappy casing and juicy interior we all love, with far less effort than grilling or stovetop methods. It’s fast, clean, and consistent—even for beginners.

From fresh Johnsonville brats to frozen links and pre-cooked varieties, the air fryer handles them all. With the right temperature, timing, and a flip halfway through, you’ll get restaurant-quality results in under 15 minutes. Add a quick simmer in beer or broth, and you’ve got flavor depth that rivals any grill.

And the best part? It’s versatile. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can turn your air-fried brats into sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or hearty one-pot meals. No more waiting for summer or dealing with messy cleanup.

So the next time you’re craving a brat, skip the grill. Grab your air fryer, follow this guide, and enjoy perfectly crispy brats in an air fryer—every single time. Your taste buds (and your countertop) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can brats be cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture?

Yes, brats can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior while staying juicy inside. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even cooking with minimal oil.

What’s the best way to cook brats in an air fryer?

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, place brats in a single layer (avoid overcrowding), and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. This method guarantees crispy brats every time without drying them out.

How long do you cook brats in an air fryer?

For fresh brats, cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning once. Frozen brats may need 15-18 minutes. Always check internal temperature (160°F) for safety.

Do you need to pre-cook brats before using an air fryer?

No, pre-cooking isn’t necessary. The air fryer cooks raw brats thoroughly while enhancing their flavor and crispiness. Just adjust cook time based on thickness.

Can you cook brats and buns together in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook brats first, then add buns in the last 2-3 minutes at 350°F to warm them without burning. This saves time and keeps everything crisp.

Are air fryer brats healthier than grilled or fried ones?

Air fryer brats use less oil than traditional frying, reducing fat and calories while still delivering a crispy texture. They’re a great option for a lighter, guilt-free meal.