Brats don’t need a grill to get that crispy, snappy skin and juicy center — the air fryer gets you there in about 15 minutes with zero babysitting. It’s an easy weeknight trade for your Instant Pot Bratwursts when you want more browning on the outside, and just as easy to pack up for camping or a quick indoor dinner when grilling isn’t an option. Pile them onto buns with your favorite toppings, or serve alongside sauerkraut for the classic pairing.
Please follow Facebook, Instagram, Twitter , Pinterest, or subscribe to my YouTube channel.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Add brats.
Cook for 14-15 minutes or until internal (160°F) is fully cooked.
Make sure to flip half way through.
Serve with buns.
Enjoy!
Recent Posts
Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube or subscribe to the blog for emails and receive free EatFoodlicious recipes daily.
Share on social media
Air Fryer Brats
Equipment
Ingredients
- 5 brats
- Oil spray, optional (only if your brats look dry — most have enough fat that it isn't needed)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
- Arrange the bratwursts in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each for air to circulate.
- Air fry 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is browned and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let rest 2–3 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve on buns with mustard, sautéed onions, and sauerkraut, or slice and serve alongside your favorite sides.
Video
Notes
Suggested Storage & Reheating
Store cooked brats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warmed through, or freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Suggested Recipe FAQs
Do I need to poke holes in the bratwursts first? No — piercing the casing actually lets the juices escape, which can leave you with drier brats. Leave them whole for the juiciest result.
How do I know when they’re done? The most reliable way is an instant-read thermometer — bratwursts are safe to eat at 160°F internal temperature. Browned, crisp skin is a good visual cue, but temperature is what actually confirms doneness.
Can I cook brats from frozen? Yes, though fresh or thawed brats give more even browning. If cooking from frozen, add extra time and check the internal temperature before serving since exact timing will vary by air fryer.
What’s the difference between this and your Instant Pot Bratwursts? The Instant Pot version cooks in liquid for a juicy, tender result with minimal browning, while the air fryer gives you a crispier, more grilled-style skin without any added liquid.
Air Fryer Recipes
Pork Recipes
