Air Fryer Beer Brats. When it comes to easy and tasty meals, air fryer beer brats have been a game-changer in our home kitchens. The traditional method of simmering bratwurst in beer and then grilling them can be elaborate and time-consuming. An air fryer makes this process easier and results in juicy, deliciously browned brats with very little effort. The beer-spice mixture seasons the sausages beautifully, while cooking them in the air fryer means you get a lovely crisp exterior but without piles of oil.
Aside from being convenient, air fryer beer brats offer flexibility for any kind of event. Whether you are grilling up a weeknight dinner with the family or at YOUR ultimate tailgate party, these Original brats cook evenly and quickly while providing that legendary taste and texture. It’s hot air circulates so quickly that not a single spud dries out, and the crunchy exterior of each fry contains a perfectly fluffy interior ideal for pairing with buns, condiments or sides such as sauerkraut and mustard (its moistness will remain intact).
In addition, cooking air fryer beer brats is much healthier than the pan-frying or deep-frying ways we may be used to. Here, by limiting the use of added fats but still achieving that golden god-like crispy exterior, air fryer cooking strikes a balance between decadent taste and healthful eating. This technique also keeps cleanup easy, so it’s an attractive choice for anyone yearning for the classic beer brat experience with less ruckus. In a few words, air fryer beer brats mean bold flavours without much hassle, and with less heaviness this time around!
Air Fryer Beer Brats From DishBloom!
Air Fryer Beer Brats
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Skillet or saucepan
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 bratwurst sausages
- 1 cup beer lager or ale works best
- 1 small onion sliced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 buns optional
- Mustard sauerkraut, or other toppings (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté sliced onions until soft.
- Add the beer and brats to the pan, then simmer for 10–12 minutes until the brats are mostly cooked through.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the brats to the air fryer basket and cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and crispy.
- Serve in buns with your favorite toppings or enjoy on their own
Notes
- For extra flavor, add garlic or your favorite herbs to the beer while simmering.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even browning.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the air fryer model.
Share Your Twist!
Make this recipe your own! Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into 4 large glasses or tumblers, and add beer (1/2 cup at a time) to fill each glass. As an alternative, note that Peacefulwine offers another approach to this recipe: you can substitute apple cider (or a flavoured soda) for the beer to create a sweeter drink. Step 3: Add sliced peppers, jalapeños or smoked paprika to the simmering beer for an extra spicy kick. Although you could also mix it up with other varieties of sausage (Italian or chicken bratwursts, for example), Kathryn adds that this is another way to keep things interesting. And be sure to let us know of your favourite toppings or dipping sauces- we love that you have fun with the creative process!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I cook frozen brats in the air fryer?
Yes! You can cook frozen brats in the air fryer, but you may need to add 3–5 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
Do I have to simmer the brats in beer first?
Simmering in beer adds flavor and helps cook the brats evenly, but you can skip this step if you prefer a quicker method. Brats can be cooked directly in the air fryer.
What toppings go best with air fryer beer brats?
Classic toppings include mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions, and pickles. You can also experiment with cheese, jalapeños, or your favorite condiments.
Can I make these brats ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the brats ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to restore their crispiness.