air fryer brats

Air Fryer Brats: Juicy and Flavorful in Minutes

Must-Try Air Fryer Brats Recipe for Any Occasion

What Is the Recipe for Air Fryer Brats?

🌭 AIR FRYER BRATS RECIPE: Place uncooked brats in a single layer on the air fryer tray lined with parchment paper. Air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite toppings or sides.

Air fryer brats are a quick and tasty way to enjoy classic bratwurst without firing up the grill. These sausages cook up beautifully in the air fryer, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in just minutes with a little oil.

Whether you’re making traditional pork brats, cheddar-stuffed versions, or even chicken or turkey brats for a lighter option, the air fryer delivers consistent results every time.

If you’re wondering whether to pierce the brats before cooking, it’s generally recommended not to pierce them before you air fry. Piercing can cause the flavorful juices to escape, resulting in drier brats, so for best results, keep them whole when making air fryer brats.

This post covers everything you need to know about making air fryer brats from start to finish. You’ll learn which ingredients to prepare, the exact measurements to use, and the essential tools for the job.

We’ll also go step-by-step through the cooking process, share nutrition details, expert tips, serving ideas, and even how to store leftovers. Plus, if you’re wondering whether you can cook frozen brats in an air fryer, the answer is yes, you can!

Simply place the frozen brats in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are browned and cooked through. If you love simple, flavorful meals that fit into your busy routine, or your keto lifestyle, this guide has you covered.

Four golden-brown air fryer brats on a wooden board, served with ketchup, garlic, and fresh vegetables
Four golden-brown air fryer brats on a wooden board, served with ketchup, garlic, and fresh vegetables

Table of Contents:

Are Air Fryer Brats Keto-Friendly?

Grilled air fryer brats served with asparagus, mushrooms, and roasted cherry tomatoes on a hot plate, with fries and ketchup in the background
Grilled air fryer brats served with asparagus, mushrooms, and roasted cherry tomatoes on a hot plate, with fries and ketchup in the background

Yes, air fryer brats are absolutely keto-friendly and are a great option for those following a low carb diet. Traditional bratwursts are made from meats like pork, beef, or veal, ingredients naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein, which perfectly align with keto principles.

When cooked in the air fryer, they release some fat but retain their juicy texture and rich flavor without needing extra oil or breading.

The key to keeping them keto is in the sides and toppings. Skip the regular buns and sugary condiments, and instead pair your brats with mustard, sauerkraut, or sautéed veggies.

You can also serve them with cauliflower mash or a crisp salad for a satisfying, low-carb meal.

With just a few mindful swaps, air fryer brats can easily fit into your keto diet while still delivering that classic, hearty taste you crave.

Ingredients To Prepare

Assorted grilled air fryer brats arranged on a wooden platter with asparagus, roasted tomatoes, garlic, and bell peppers, served alongside a side of fries
Assorted grilled air fryer brats arranged on a wooden platter with asparagus, roasted tomatoes, garlic, and bell peppers, served alongside a side of fries

Before you start cooking, gather a few simple ingredients. These basics ensure your air fryer brats from your favorite brand of bratwurst come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly browned every time.

  • Uncooked brats: Fresh bratwurst links (pork, beef, or turkey). Choose good-quality sausages without added sugars or fillers if you’re keeping it low-carb. Plan on one to two brats per person, depending on size, and pat them dry before cooking so the casing crisps evenly.
  • Parchment paper: Optional liner for the air fryer basket or drip tray to catch grease and speed cleanup. Use perforated parchment or cut a small sheet to fit; place it under the brats and keep it flat so it won’t lift with the airflow.

Ingredient Measurement

Three browned air fryer brats served on a plate with slices of bread and a small dollop of mustard
Three browned air fryer brats served on a plate with slices of bread and a small dollop of mustard

Getting the measurements right makes all the difference. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need to cook perfectly portioned, delicious air fryer brats every time, including some aluminum foil for lining the basket.

  • 4 pieces of uncooked brats
  • Parchment paper

Equipment You’ll Need

Two grilled air fryer brats in a pan with cherry tomatoes and peppercorns, served beside a bowl of ketchup on a wooden table
Two grilled air fryer brats in a pan with cherry tomatoes and peppercorns, served beside a bowl of ketchup on a wooden table

Before using your air fryer, ensure you have the necessary tools. These simple kitchen essentials help ensure your brats cook evenly and come out perfectly crisp.

  • Air fryer
  • Kitchen tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Parchment paper
  • Tray or basket

If you’re using an oven-style air fryer, lining the drip tray with parchment paper can save you time on cleanup later.

How To Make Air Fryer Brats

Four golden air fryer brats in a skillet, served beside a piece of multigrain bread and a meat fork on a checkered cloth
Four golden air fryer brats in a skillet, served beside a piece of multigrain bread and a meat fork on a checkered cloth

Making air fryer brats is easy and doesn’t require much effort or time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have juicy, flavorful sausages ready in minutes.

The air fryer does most of the work, ensuring an even cook and a crisp finish without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or family, it’s a quick way to enjoy great flavor.

Now, let’s go through the simple steps to make them.

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer

  • Arrange the bratwursts in a single layer on the size of your air fryer tray or basket. If you’re using an oven-style air fryer, you can line the drip pan with parchment paper to catch excess grease and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Brats

  • Set the preheated air fryer to 375°F and cook the brats for 12–14 minutes. They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the outside turns golden brown with a tight, crispy skin while staying juicy inside.

Step 3: Rest and Serve

  • Carefully remove the brats with tongs and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as-is or with your favorite toppings and sides.

Air Fryer Brats Nutrition

Assorted air fryer brats served on a round plate with grilled asparagus, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers
Assorted air fryer brats served on a round plate with grilled asparagus, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers

Air fryer brats offer a satisfying balance of protein and flavor without the extra grease from traditional frying. Cooking brats in the air fryer helps render fat efficiently, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the meat juicy.

This method provides a lighter option for enjoying classic Johnsonville brats, making them ideal for anyone seeking a hearty yet cleaner meal without sacrificing taste or texture.

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional profile for one serving of bratwurst:

  • Calories: 283 kcal
  • Total fat: 25 grams
  • Net carbs: 2 grams
  • Protein: 12 grams

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Brats

Golden air fryer brats arranged on a tray with a bowl of ketchup, fresh rosemary, garlic cloves, and a coiled sausage on the side
Golden air fryer brats arranged on a tray with a bowl of ketchup, fresh rosemary, garlic cloves, and a coiled sausage on the side

Want your air fryer brats to turn out just right every time? Follow these expert tips to achieve juicy, flavorful sausages with that ideal crispy finish and a light brushing of cooking oil for the best results.

  • Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and a perfectly crisp, golden-brown sausage exterior.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Arrange types of brats in a single layer with enough space between them so hot air circulates freely, ensuring consistent texture and even cooking.
  • Flip halfway through: Turn the brats over halfway through cooking to promote even browning, prevent one side from overcooking, and maintain a balanced crispness.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Check that each beer brat reaches 160°F internally to confirm they’re fully cooked, juicy inside, and safe to enjoy every time.
  • Add onions and peppers: During the last few minutes, toss sliced onions and bell peppers into the basket for extra flavor and a delicious caramelized side.
  • Let them rest: After air frying, let brats rest for several minutes to lock in juices, enhancing their tenderness and keeping every bite flavorful.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Assorted air fryer brats served on a white plate with mashed peas, sauerkraut, fresh parsley, and a small cup of gravy
Assorted air fryer brats served on a white plate with mashed peas, sauerkraut, fresh parsley, and a small cup of gravy

Once your brats are perfectly cooked, it’s time to think about what to serve with them. Here are some tasty pairing ideas to complete your meal.

Serving Ideas:

  • Classic Style: Serve brats on toasted buns topped with sauerkraut, caramelized onions, and mustard for a timeless, flavorful meal everyone will enjoy.
  • Low-Carb Plate: Skip the bun and serve sliced brats over warm cabbage slaw or sautéed spinach for a filling, low carb keto-friendly lunch or dinner.
  • Veggie Combo: Pair brats with roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed cauliflower, or green beans for a hearty, balanced meal with added texture and nutrition.
  • Party Skewers: Slice brats and thread them with grilled peppers, zucchini, and onions for easy-to-eat skewers that make perfect appetizers or game-day snacks.
  • Cheesy Brats: Top your air fryer brats with melted cheddar or Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and Dijon mustard for a rich and tangy flavor twist.

Pairing Ideas:

  • Beer and Brats: Pair with a light lager, wheat beer, or hard seltzer for a refreshing balance that complements the brat’s smoky and savory taste.
  • Classic Sides: Enjoy with creamy coleslaw, German-style potato salad, or sauerkraut for a flavorful pairing that enhances the brat’s rich, meaty profile, making these sides a popular choice.
  • Refreshing Beverage: Serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber slices for a crisp, refreshing drink that lightens up your meal.
  • Keto-Friendly Additions: Add a side of cauliflower tots, cheesy broccoli, or keto garlic bread for a satisfying and low-carb meal combination.
  • Dipping Sauces: Complement brats with spicy brown mustard, chipotle aioli, or creamy ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How To Store Air Fryer Brats

Three browned air fryer brats in a cast iron pan beside two baguettes on a dark tabletop
Three browned air fryer brats in a cast iron pan beside two baguettes on a dark tabletop

Storing air fryer brats properly keeps them fresh, juicy, and ready for your next meal, especially when served with your favorite condiments. Once cooled to room temperature, place the cooked brats in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil.

They’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible.

This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps their flavor intact for up to two months. When reheating, use the air fryer or stovetop instead of the microwave to preserve their crispy texture.

Simply heat them at 350°F for a few minutes until warm throughout. With these simple storage and reheating steps, your air fryer brats will taste just as delicious the second time around.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

If you loved these air fryer brats, you’ll enjoy other quick and keto-friendly dishes that fit perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Common Mistakes When Air Frying Bratwurst?

Common mistakes include skipping the preheat step, overcrowding the basket, or overcooking the brats, which can dry them out. Avoid piercing the sausages before cooking releases juices and reduces flavor, even if you’re planning to serve them in a hot dog bun. Always check internal temperature for doneness to keep your brats juicy, crisp, and perfectly cooked.

Is Air Frying Brats Better Than Grilling?

Air frying brats offers the same crispy, golden exterior as grilling but with less mess and faster cooking. It’s a convenient option for quick meals, especially indoors. While grilling gives a smoky flavor, air frying delivers consistent results and juicy brats, and air fryer mushrooms can complement this dish wonderfully without needing an outdoor setup or constant flipping.

How Long Do You Cook Brats in the Air Fryer?

Brats typically cook in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for 12 to 14 minutes, depending on thickness. Flip them halfway through for even browning. They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F, with a crisp, golden skin and juicy, tender meat inside, perfectly cooked every time.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer brats are an easy and delicious way to enjoy this classic favorite without the hassle of grilling.

With the right cooking time, simple prep, and a few expert tips, you can achieve juicy, golden-brown brats that taste amazing every time.

Whether you pair them with roasted veggies, fresh slaw, or your favorite sauces, they’re perfect for any meal.

If you enjoyed this guide and want more quick, tasty air fryer recipes, visit our website for more easy-to-follow ideas and helpful cooking tips.