Easy Air Fryer Brats (Johnsonville Brats)

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Cook Johnsonville brats in the air fryer in just minutes! Learn the best way to make juicy, golden brown air fryer brats for an easy, quick meal.

Looking for the best way to make juicy, golden brown brats without firing up the grill? Good news: you can cook Johnsonville pre-cooked brats or regular brats in the air fryer in just a few minutes! Whether you’re using classic Johnsonville brats or a random fun flavor like we are (our family loves spicy!), the air fryer is a great way to get delicious brats with minimal effort.

These air fryer brats are perfect for summer cookouts, tailgate parties, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Pair them with potato salad, french fries, or even some easy air fryer peppers and mushrooms, and you’ve got a meal your whole family will love.

Why Air Fryer Brats Are a Game-Changer

If you love brats but hate the mess of stovetop cooking, air frying is your new best friend. Here’s why:

• Quick meal: Cook in just 8–10 minutes.
• Juicy brats every time: Perfectly browned on the outside, tender inside.
• Easy way: No grill or skillet required.
• Different flavors: Works for rope sausages, Italian sausages, turkey brats, or even uncooked brats (with adjusted cook times).
• Beginner-friendly: Great for anyone new to easy air fryer recipes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Air Fryer Brats

The only ingredient you need is a package of brats from your favorite brand of brats. For this recipe, we’re using Johnsonville brats.

Optional toppings:

• Brat buns or a hot dog bun
• Your favorite toppings (mustard, onions, sauerkraut, pickles, ketchup or even cheese)

How to Cook Johnsonville Brats in the Air Fryer

Here’s the easy recipe step by step; you can also scroll for the full recipe card if you prefer.

Preheat your air fryer: Set to 375 degrees F (depending on your model) and preheat the baskets. Preheating helps the sausages cook evenly.

Prepare your brats: Remove the package label and plastic wrap. If your brats were refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes.

Arrange in the air fryer basket: Place brats in a single layer so they cook evenly. You can line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.

Cooking time: Air fryer cooking takes about 8–10 minutes total for pre-cooked brats, and 12-15 minutes for uncooked brats. Flip halfway through. If you want them extra crisp, go a little longer until they’re golden brown.

Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer or instant-read thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. This is the safe cook temp for bratwurst sausages, even when they’re pre-cooked.

Serve and enjoy: Place brats in a brat bun or hot dog bun with your favorite toppings. Add a side of potato salad, french fries, or crunchy potato chips for the full cookout vibe.

Air Fryer Brats Tips for the Best Results

• Cook in small batches: Don’t overcrowd—give the brats space to crisp.
• Line your basket: Use parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch drips.
• Add veggies: Toss in sliced peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a one-basket meal.
• Store leftovers: Keep leftover sausages in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes at 350°F.

Different Types of Brats to Try

Johnsonville makes tons of different flavors of bratwurst, all made with premium pork and premium cuts seasoned with natural flavors. A few favorite options to try:

• Johnsonville cheddar brats: Melty cheese inside each bite.
• Johnsonville beer brats: Perfect for game day.
• Regular brats: Classic flavor, great with sauerkraut.
• Turkey brats or turkey sausage: Lower fat, lighter option.
• Italian sausages: Add to pasta or serve in rolls with peppers.

You can even cook fresh grilling sausage or rope sausages the same way. Just adjust the cook time and always check internal temperature.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Brats

• Classic: In a hot dog bun with mustard and sauerkraut.
• Cheesy: Top with swiss cheese or cheddar cheese and grilled onions.
• Game Day: Serve with potato chips or french fries.
• Backyard BBQ: Pair with potato salad, orzo salad, grilled corn, or an easy street corn smash taco.
• German-style: Try with mustard and a cold beer for a German deli vibe.

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Final Thoughts on Johnsonville Brats in the Air Fryer

Making Johnsonville pre-cooked brats in the air fryer is one of the easiest air fryer recipes you’ll ever try. With just a package of brats, a few minutes of air fryer cooking, and your favorite toppings, you’ll have juicy brats that taste like they came right off the grill.

Whether you’re using Johnsonville beer brats, cheddar brats, or good old regular brats, the air fryer is the best way to cook brats indoors—quick, easy, and totally delicious.

So grab a package of brats from your local grocery store, fire up the air fryer, and cook brats the easy way. The best parts? No mess, no fuss, and plenty of flavor.

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