Air Fryer Bratwurst and Bell Peppers in 15 Minutes

Prep: 5 minCook: 15 min6 servingsmediumAmerican
Air Fryer Bratwurst and Bell Peppers in 15 Minutes

Juicy bratwurst sausages and tender seasoned bell peppers cooked together in the air fryer for a quick, satisfying meal. The high heat creates beautifully caramelized peppers while keeping the bratwurst perfectly cooked with crispy skin. Ready in just 15 minutes, this simple one-basket dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual outdoor gatherings. Serve on buns for classic sausage sandwiches or alongside your favorite sides for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 4 bratwurst sausage
    Italian sausage1:1

    Similar cooking time and flavor profile

  • 2 large bell peppers, diced
    onions1:1

    Classic pairing with sausages, may cook faster

    Full guide →
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    garlic powder and oregano1/2 tsp each

    Creates similar herb blend flavor

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut bell peppers into strips or chunks using a sharp knife

  2. 2

    Add peppers to a large bowl and toss with oil and all seasonings

  3. 3

    Preheat air fryer to 370 degrees F for 3-5 minutes

  4. 4

    Place sausages and seasoned peppers in air fryer basket in a single layer

  5. 5

    Cook for 12-15 minutes at 370 degrees F, flipping sausages several times with tongs

  6. 6

    Remove when internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F using a meat thermometer

  7. 7

    Serve on hot dog buns, brat buns, or hoagie rolls

Tips

Tip 1

Use tongs to flip sausages multiple times during cooking for even browning and prevent sticking to the basket.

Tip 2

Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach safe 160 degrees F without overcooking.

Tip 3

Cut peppers uniformly for even cooking - strips work well for sandwiches while chunks are great for sides.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate cooked sausages and peppers for up to 3 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Peppers can be cut and seasoned up to 1 day ahead, store covered in refrigerator

Serve With

Best served immediately while hot, on buns or with sides like potato salad or coleslaw

Common Mistakes

Watch

Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking

Watch

Use meat thermometer to avoid undercooking sausages below safe 160 degrees F temperature

Substitutions

bratwurst
Italian sausage1:1

Similar cooking time and flavor profile

Full guide →
bell peppers
onions1:1

Classic pairing with sausages, may cook faster

Full guide →
Italian seasoning
garlic powder and oregano1/2 tsp each

Creates similar herb blend flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I cook frozen bratwurst in the air fryer?

Yes, add 3-5 extra minutes to cooking time and ensure internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F before serving.

What if my peppers are browning too quickly?

Lower temperature to 350 degrees F or remove peppers when tender and continue cooking sausages alone.

How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?

Properly stored cooked sausages and peppers will keep for up to 3 days refrigerated in airtight containers.