I’ve always been a fan of meals that pack flavor with minimal effort, and air fryer cheddar brats fit that description perfectly. The crispy, golden exterior and juicy, cheesy center make them the ultimate comfort food—especially when you’re short on time but still want something seriously satisfying. I love how the air fryer works its magic, giving me that irresistible snap without having to fire up the grill or dirty multiple pans.
What I especially enjoy about these brats is how versatile they are. You can serve them on toasted buns with tangy mustard and sauerkraut, slice them up over mac and cheese, or even add them to breakfast hash. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a game day snack, or a quick weekend meal, these air fryer cheddar brats always deliver crowd-pleasing flavor.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Cheddar Bratwursts: These are the star of the show—juicy sausages stuffed with cheddar cheese that melts beautifully as they cook. The cheese not only adds flavor but also makes every bite creamy and rich.
Olive Oil Spray: Just a light mist before air frying helps create that irresistible crispy skin and prevents the brats from sticking to the basket. You don’t need much—less is more here.
Buns (optional): If you’re serving these as sandwiches, soft hot dog or brat buns are perfect. Lightly toasting them in the air fryer right after the brats cook gives them a delicious crunch.
Toppings: Go classic with mustard and sauerkraut, or get creative with caramelized onions, shredded cheese, or spicy mayo. The toppings can totally change the personality of the dish.
Ingredients List
- 4 cheddar bratwursts
- Olive oil spray (a few sprays)
- 4 hot dog or brat buns (optional)
- Mustard, sauerkraut, or other desired toppings
How to Make Air Fryer Cheddar Brats
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures the brats start cooking immediately and develop that golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Brats
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the cheddar brats in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap—airflow is key for even cooking.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the brats for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when the skin is crisp and slightly blistered, and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Toast the Buns (Optional)
If you’re serving the brats on buns, remove the cooked brats and place the buns in the air fryer basket for about 1–2 minutes. They’ll get warm and just a little crisp around the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Add your favorite toppings—mustard, onions, cheese, or sauerkraut—and dig in while they’re hot and juicy. These are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each brat enough space so the air can circulate and crisp them evenly.
- Flip halfway through cooking: This helps both sides brown beautifully.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that the internal temperature hits 160°F for safe and perfect doneness.
- Experiment with toppings: Try jalapeños, grilled peppers, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Clean the air fryer basket right away: The melted cheese from the brats can stick once it cools, so a quick wipe makes cleanup easier.
- Want smoky flavor? Add a small dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the brats before cooking.
FAQs
Can I use regular brats instead of cheddar brats?
Absolutely! You can use any bratwurst variety you like. If you’re missing the cheesy flavor, just sprinkle shredded cheddar on top before serving.
Do I need to pierce the brats before cooking?
No, it’s best not to. Piercing them can cause the cheese and juices to leak out during cooking, leaving them dry.
Can I cook frozen cheddar brats in the air fryer?
Yes! Just increase the cooking time by 4–5 minutes. Flip them halfway through and check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any cooked brats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
What sides go well with cheddar brats?
They pair beautifully with air fryer fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or even a simple green salad. A cold beer or a glass of lemonade makes a perfect finishing touch!