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I’m always looking for hands-off dinner ideas that everyone loves, and sausages are always a win. These air fryer brats are my go-to when I don’t feel like babysitting the grill. I just throw them in the air fryer, flip once, and 15 minutes later, they’re ready to eat. The bratwurst comes out juicy on the inside with that perfectly crisp, browned skin I love. I usually layer them with sautéed onions and mustard in a toasted bun, but they’re also great sliced up with toppings for game day or served as an easy appetizer.
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Pin ItEasy Air Fryer Brats Recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is—done in under 20 minutes with no mess. Everyone raves about them. Whether I’m hosting friends for game day or pulling together a last-minute weeknight dinner, these brats always disappear fast. The air fryer delivers that juicy, snappy texture you want in a German sausage, with zero mess or grill required. Just toast up your favorite buns, set out a bunch of toppings, and let everyone build their own. It’s an easy win every time.
Air Fryer Brats
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer (click for my favorite)
Ingredients
- 1x 19 oz package uncooked bratwurst about 5 links
- 5 hot dog or hoagie buns For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns
- Toppings of choice: ketchup mustard, sauerkraut, pickles, relish, diced onions, sauteed peppers, pickled jalapeños, etc.
Video
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees. Once preheated, add the brats to the basket.1x 19 oz package uncooked bratwurst
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them once halfway through. The brats should register 165 degrees in the center when done.
- While the brats cook, prepare your buns and toppings.5 hot dog or hoagie buns
- Serve hot and enjoy.Toppings of choice: ketchup
Becky’s Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—leave space for circulation
- Flip halfway for even browning
- Always check internal temp with a meat thermometer (165°F)
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving to avoid burns
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this? Leave a comment!
How to Cook Air Fryer Brats Step by Step
Gather the ingredients together: Gather all the ingredients together and preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
Add the brats to the basket: Place 1 (19-oz) package of uncooked bratwurst (about 5 links) in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each brat so the air can circulate evenly.
Cook and flip: Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Prepare the toppings and buns while they cook.
Remove the brats: Once the brats reach an internal temperature of 165°F, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Serve and enjoy: Add the brats to buns and layer with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
How to Store and Reheat
I like to prep my sautéed onions, slice buns, or make my pickled relish ahead of time to make mealtime even easier.
Keep any leftover brats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To bring back that crispy texture, pop them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. Or, if you’re in a rush, microwave for about 1 minute.
Cooked bratwurst freezes well—just store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Else Can I Add to Air Fryer Brats
- Caramelized onions – sweet and savory with a hint of char
- Sautéed bell peppers – add color and crunch
- Spicy mustard or beer mustard – for a tangy kick
- Shredded cheese or cheese sauce – melty goodness on top
- Pickled jalapeños – for some heat
- Red cabbage slaw – a crunchy, vinegary contrast
Serving Suggestions
I love serving these brats in toasted buns with all the classic toppings—mustard, sauerkraut, and a big spoonful of my homemade pickle relish. They’re great alongside French fries, potato salad, or anything you’d bring to a BBQ. Whether it’s game day, a summer cookout, or just a weeknight when I don’t feel like cooking, these always hit the spot.
What brand of brats did you use? Thanks Tina
Hi Tina, we used Johnsonville. Any kind should be okay though!