How To Cook Raw Brats In Air Fryer [FULL GUIDE]

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Bratwurst, commonly shortened to “brats”, is a staple of German cuisine that has found a passionate following across the globe. These plump, savory sausages are often made from pork, beef, or a combination of meats, seasoned with an array of spices like nutmeg, coriander, and garlic. Cooking brats to perfection is an art-too little heat leaves them raw in the center, while too much can cause the casings to split and the juices to escape. Traditionally simmered, grilled, or pan-fried, brats have now found a fast, efficient, and remarkably consistent cooking method: the air fryer.

Air fryers cook food by circulating hot air around it, producing a crisp exterior while retaining the natural juices inside. This method mimics frying but without excessive oil, making it a healthier, faster alternative. Using an air fryer for brats ensures they cook evenly, brown beautifully, and develop that characteristic snap when bitten into-without the hassle of tending a grill or standing over a stovetop.

Optimal Air Fryer Temperature To Cook Raw Brats In Air Fryer

Temperature is critical when cooking raw brats. Set the air fryer too low, and the sausage may cook unevenly or remain undercooked in the center. Too high, and the exterior will char while the inside is still raw.

The optimal temperature for cooking raw brats in an air fryer is 350°F (175°C). At this temperature, the air fryer provides enough heat to cook the brats thoroughly while giving them a golden-brown exterior. This moderate heat allows the fat within the brat to render slowly, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.

Some variations of air fryers may have hot spots, so maintaining consistent heat and occasionally checking progress ensures even cooking.

How Long To Cook Raw Brats In Air Fryer

Cooking time is as important as temperature. For raw brats at 350°F (175°C):

• Average Size (about 4-5 ounces each): 12-15 minutes
• Extra Large (6 ounces or more): 15-18 minutes

It’s recommended to flip the brats halfway through cooking. This ensures an even browning and helps prevent any one side from overcooking. Unlike grilling, where flare-ups can char the surface, the air fryer circulates heat evenly, making timing more predictable.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining doneness isn’t about guessing-precision ensures safety and flavor. The best indicators are:

1. Internal Temperature: Use a digital meat thermometer. Brats are fully cooked at 160°F (71°C) for pork or beef. Some air fryer enthusiasts prefer 165°F (74°C) for extra assurance.
2. Texture and Appearance: The brat should have a firm snap when pressed or gently squeezed. The casing should be golden-brown, slightly blistered, and glistening with rendered fat.
3. Juices: When pierced, the juices should run clear, not pink or red.

Relying solely on color or size can be misleading, so always check the internal temperature.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking brats in an air fryer is simple and requires minimal ingredients:

• Raw brats (pork, beef, or mixed, 4-6 ounces each)
• Olive oil or cooking spray (optional, helps crisp the exterior)

• Optional Seasonings

  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Black pepper

• Optional Serving Additions

  • Mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions, or buns

How To Cook Raw Brats In Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Brats: Lightly brush or spray the brats with oil to enhance browning. Optionally, season with garlic powder, black pepper, or paprika.
3. Arrange in Basket: Place brats in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
4. Cook: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Check Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the center has reached 160°F (71°C). If needed, cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Rest: Let brats rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Temperature?

• Higher Temperature (375-400°F / 190-205°C): Brats will brown faster but risk splitting and losing juices. Reduce cooking time slightly and monitor closely.
• Lower Temperature (325°F / 160°C): Brats will cook more slowly and evenly but may not brown as much. Add 3-5 extra minutes and flip halfway.

Adjusting temperature affects texture and moisture retention, so moderate temperatures usually yield the best balance.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Cooking Time?

Cooking longer than recommended may dry out the sausage, causing a tough interior and shriveled casing. Cooking for less time risks undercooked meat, which is unsafe and can be unappetizing. Always combine time, temperature, and thermometer checks for accurate results.

When Things Go Wrong

• Brats Burst or Split: Usually caused by too high heat or overcrowding. Reduce temperature and avoid stacking sausages.
• Undercooked Center: Check internal temperature; continue cooking at 350°F (175°C) in 1-2 minute intervals.
• Too Dry: Could be overcooked. Next time, flip earlier and reduce cooking time slightly. Brats naturally release some fat, but excessive drying is preventable.

Expert Tips

1. Pre-Score Casings: Lightly poke or score brats to prevent splitting and ensure even cooking.
2. Avoid Overcrowding: Air fryers rely on circulating air. Brats need space for even browning.
3. Rest Before Serving: Even a brief 2-3 minute rest improves juiciness.
4. Pair with Beer or Onion Bath: For extra flavor, briefly simmer brats in beer and onions before air frying. This enhances taste while reducing risk of drying out.
5. Experiment with Aromatics: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage during air frying can infuse subtle flavor without overpowering.

FAQs

Can I Cook Raw Brats Directly In The Air Fryer Without Pre-boiling?

Yes, you can cook raw brats directly in the air fryer without pre-boiling. However, pre-boiling in beer or water can help retain moisture and reduce cooking time. If cooking directly, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to guarantee they are fully cooked.

What Temperature Should I Set My Air Fryer To For Brats?

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. This temperature allows the brats to cook through while developing a golden-brown exterior. For extra crispiness, you can increase to 375°F (190°C) for the last few minutes.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Raw Brats In An Air Fryer?

Cooking raw brats in an air fryer typically takes 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the brats and your air fryer model.

Do I Need To Use Oil When Cooking Brats In An Air Fryer?

No, you do not need to use oil when cooking brats in an air fryer, as they release some fat while cooking. If desired, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking, but it is generally not necessary.

Should I Prick The Brats Before Air Frying?

It is not recommended to prick brats before cooking in an air fryer. Pricking can release juices and dry out the sausage. Instead, cook them whole and allow the air fryer to evenly heat the sausages.

How Can I Tell When Brats Are Fully Cooked In The Air Fryer?

Brats are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the sausage to check doneness. The exterior should be golden brown and slightly crisp.

Can I Cook Frozen Brats In The Air Fryer, And Does It Change The Cooking Time?

Yes, you can cook frozen brats in the air fryer, but the cooking time will increase. Frozen brats typically take 18-22 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Flip them halfway through and ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) before serving.