how long to cook brats in instant pot: Step by Step Guide 2024! Best Method.

how long to cook brats in instant pot?

“Cook brats in an Instant Pot for about 8-10 minutes on high pressure. Let them naturally release for 5 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure. This ensures they are fully cooked and tender.”

Step by Step Guide: how long to cook brats in instant pot

Cooking brats in an Instant Pot is a quick and efficient way to enjoy this delicious sausage.

The pressure cooker helps in infusing flavors while keeping the brats juicy and tender.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making perfectly cooked brats in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients You Will Need

• 4 to 6 bratwursts (fresh or precooked)
• 1 cup of beer or broth (for flavor and moisture)
• 1 medium onion, sliced (optional, for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Buns, for serving (optional)
• Toppings such as sauerkraut, mustard, or sautéed onions

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Make sure to slice the onion if you decide to use it.
• You can also decide whether you prefer fresh or precooked bratwursts. Fresh ones will require a bit more time to cook.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions (Optional)

• Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function.
• Add a small amount of oil if desired, and let it heat for a minute.
• Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they are soft and translucent. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Once done, turn off the sauté function.

Step 3: Add the Brats

• Place the bratwursts in the Instant Pot, arranging them evenly. If you’re using fresh brats, you may want to brown them slightly by sautéing for a minute or two before adding the liquid.

Step 4: Add Liquid

• Pour in 1 cup of beer or broth over the bratwursts. The liquid will create steam and help the brats cook thoroughly. You may also add Dijon mustard at this point for an extra kick of flavor.

Step 5: Set the Instant Pot

• Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
• Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function and set the timer:
• For Fresh Brats: 15 minutes
• For Precooked Brats: 5 minutes

Step 6: Natural Release

• Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”

Step 7: Serve

• Carefully open the lid and remove the brats using tongs. Let them rest for a minute.
• You can serve the brats in buns with your choice of toppings, or enjoy them on their own with sides.

Step 8: Optional Browning

• For an extra layer of flavor, you can finish cooking the brats by placing them on a grill or under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a golden-brown color.

Nutritional Data

Per Brat (assuming pork brat, without bun):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 12-15 grams
• Total Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 1-3 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sodium: 400-600 mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on brand and specific cooking methods.

Final Thoughts

Cooking brats in your Instant Pot is an effortless way to get a delicious, satisfying meal on the table.

Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also take on the flavors of your chosen liquids beautifully, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.

Dive into this step-by-step guide to discover cooking times, safety tips, and even vegan alternatives, ensuring your meals are not only delightful but safe to enjoy.

With the right information, your bratwursts can impress family and guests alike, making you the star of your next cookout.

Cooking times for fresh bratwursts

Cooking fresh bratwurst in an Instant Pot is a simple and efficient way to enjoy a juicy brat any night of the week. Here’s a quick guide to help you achieve perfectly cooked brats.

1. Prep Time: Start by prepping your ingredients. For this example, slice some sweet onions and bell peppers if you wish to add some veggies.
2. Cook Time: Cooking time is crucial to avoid over or undercooking. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Brown the brats for about 5 minutes to enhance their flavor. Then, add in your onions and peppers, sautéing for another couple of minutes.
3. Cooking Liquids: Pour in 1 cup of beer (light beer or non-alcoholic beers for beer brats recipe) or chicken broth, or even apple juice for extra sweetness. The liquid is essential for the pressure cooking process.
4. Pressure Cook: Now, cancel sauté mode, close the lid, and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Release Pressure: After cooking, use the quick release to let out the steam, being cautious to avoid the hot release.

Ensure the brats have reached an internal temperature of 160°F. Store leftovers in an airtight container. For those preferring other methods, adapt the cooking process similarly for slow cookers or air fryers.

Cooking times for frozen bratwursts

Cooking frozen bratwurst sausages in an Instant Pot is straightforward and efficient. Below is a simple step-by-step guide to perfectly cooked brats.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

1. Prepare Ingredients: If adding flavors, such as sweet onions or bell peppers, slice them and set them aside.
2. Instant Pot Setup: Place the metal trivet inside the Instant Pot to prevent the brats from sticking to the bottom.
3. Add Liquids: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth, beer (light beer or non-alcoholic beers for beer brats recipe), or apple juice into the pot for flavorful cooking liquids.
4. Place Brats: Arrange frozen brats on the trivet, preventing them from touching for even cooking.
5. Cooking Time: Secure the lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and pressure cook on High for 12 minutes, ideal for juicy brats.
6. Pressure Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to the venting position using a wooden spoon.
7. Check Temperature: Ensure brats reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
8. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store brats in an airtight container.

Table Summary:

Enjoy your weeknight dinner with these juicy, instant pot brats, or experiment with other cooking methods such as slow cooker, air fryer, or opting for a natural release if preferred.

Importance of using a trivet in the Instant Pot

Using a trivet in the Instant Pot is crucial for a variety of reasons. Here are the top 10 importances with examples for each:

1. Elevation: A trivet lifts food above the liquid, crucial for recipes like cheesecakes where you want to avoid water bath issues.
   Example: Steaming a custard without it becoming soggy.
2. Steam Circulation: It allows steam to circulate evenly, enhancing the cooking process.
   Example: Steaming vegetables thoroughly.
3. Prevent Sogging: Prevents delicate items from sitting in cooking liquids, keeping them from becoming too moist or falling apart.
   Example: Keeping bread or dumplings from soaking up excess liquid.
4. Heat Distribution: Promotes more even heat distribution for foods that should not come in direct contact with the bottom of the pot.
   Example: Cooking a whole chicken without it sticking to the base.
5. Layer Cooking: Enables the cooking of multiple items at once without mixing flavors.
   Example: Cooking rice below while steaming fish above.
6. Cooking Preservation: Maintains the integrity of vegetables and proteins by preventing them from disintegrating.
   Example: Keeping fish filets intact.
7. Avoiding Burn Messages: Helps to avoid the ‘burn’ message for recipes prone to sticking or burning.
   Example: Preventing tomato sauce from scorching.
8. Keeping Food Intact: Useful for cooking items en papillote (in parchment packets) that require elevation.
   Example: Infusing chicken with herbs by cooking it in a parchment pouch.
9. Defrosting: Assists with defrosting foods by keeping them out of accumulating water.
   Example: Defrosting frozen meat without it stewing in melted ice.
10. Canning: Essential for home canning in the Instant Pot to prevent jars from making direct contact with the heat source.
    Example: Canning preserves without jar breakage.

Short, table-formatted list for visual ease:

A trivet is an indispensable tool in your pressure cooking adventures to ensure both the quality and the proper preparation of your dishes.

Browning bratwursts before cooking

Cooking bratwursts in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also seals in flavors for a juicy meal.

Before pressure cooking, browning the bratwursts is a key step that shouldn’t be skipped. Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Allow the pot to heat up for a couple of minutes.
2. Add in a couple of tablespoons of butter to melt.
3. Once the butter is sizzling, place your bratwurst sausages in the pot for browning. Avoid overcrowding; cook them in batches if necessary.
4. Let the brats sear on one side until they’re nicely browned, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Use a wooden spoon or tongs to rotate the brats and brown all sides evenly. The full browning process should take roughly 6-10 minutes.
6. Once browned, press ‘Cancel’ to stop the ‘Sauté’ function and proceed with your recipe.

Browning the brats develops a savory exterior and adds depth to your dish. It’s a straightforward process that enhances the final flavor of your weeknight dinner or beer brats recipe.

Browning Bratwursts Step-by-Step:

Step-by-step cooking instructions for fresh brats

Instructions for Cooking Fresh Brats in an Instant Pot

1. Gather Ingredients:

• Fresh bratwurst sausages
• 1 cup cooking liquid (chicken broth, beer, or apple juice)
• Optional: sweet onions, bell peppers

2. Prep Time:

• If desired, slice onions and bell peppers for flavor.
• Set fresh brats aside; no need to thaw or pre-cook.

3. Add Liquids:

• Pour 1 cup of your chosen liquid into the Instant Pot.

4. Place Brats:

• Add bratwurst sausages into the liquid. If using, include the onions and peppers.

5. Cook Time:

• Secure the Instant Pot lid.
• Cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes for a well-done and juicy brat.

6. Perform a Quick Release:

• Once the cooking time is up, use a wooden spoon to carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.

7. Check Temperature:

• For safety, ensure the brats reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

8. Serve:

• Serve your Instant Pot brats with your choice of sides for a quick weeknight dinner.

Cooking Fresh Brats in Instant Pot

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• For added flavor, consider a beer brats recipe using light beer or non-alcoholic beers as cooking liquids.

Step-by-step cooking instructions for frozen brats

When cooking frozen brats in an Instant Pot, follow these simple steps to ensure juicy, delicious results every time.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 11 minutes

Ingredients:

• Frozen brats
• 1 cup chicken broth or beer
• Sweet onions and bell peppers (optional)
• 1 Tablespoon butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add Liquids: Place the metal trivet in the Instant Pot. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth or beer. If you prefer non-alcoholic beers, they work just as well as regular beer for beer brats recipes.
2. Place Brats: Arrange the frozen brats on top of the trivet. You can add sweet onions and bell peppers on top for added flavor, and a tablespoon of butter if desired.
3. Seal and Cook: Close the lid and seal the vent. Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 6 minutes.
4. Natural Release: After the cooking time is over, allow for a 10-minute natural release followed by a quick release to remove any remaining pressure.
5. Check Temperature: Make sure the internal temperature of the brats is 160°F for safety.
6. Serve: Enjoy your juicy brats with your choice of sides or on a bun for a quick weeknight dinner. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Optional: For a crispier skin, you can finish the brats in an air fryer or on a grill for a few minutes.

Remember, pressure cookers vary, so your first time might require some trial and error. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Instant Pot brats!

Cooking bratwurst with beer in the Instant Pot

If you’re looking to whip up a savory batch of bratwurst with beer in your Instant Pot, here’s a simple guide to get you started:

Cook Time: Approximately 10 minutes of pressure cooking.

Prep Time: Around 5 minutes.

Ingredients:

• Bratwurst sausages
• 12 ounces of light beer (or a non-alcoholic beer alternative)
• Sweet onions (optional)
• Bell peppers (optional)
• 2 Tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

• Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode.
• Add the butter and sweet onions with bell peppers if you’re including them.
• Sauté until slightly browned.

2. Add Brats and Liquid:

• Place the bratwurst sausages in the pot.
• Pour in the light beer or your choice of cooking liquid.

3. Cooking Process:

• Secure the lid on the pressure cooker.
• Use the manual setting to set the cooking time for 10 minutes.

4. Pressure Release:

• Once the Instant Pot completes the cook time, you can opt for a natural release or a quick-release method. If you’re in a hurry, use the quick release by opening the valve with a wooden spoon.

5. Serve:

• Carefully remove the brats and, if desired, give them a little browning in a pan or an air fryer for some added texture.
• Serve them hot for a perfect weeknight dinner.

For storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.

Remember to always ensure your brats reach the recommended internal temperature of 160°F for a juicy, safe bite. Happy cooking!

Making sauerkraut brats in the Instant Pot

Making sauerkraut brats in an Instant Pot is a simple process that results in a delicious and savory weeknight dinner. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your brats are cooked to juicy perfection.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• Bratwurst sausages
• 1 cup sauerkraut
• 1 cup chicken broth or beer (light beer or non-alcoholic beers work well)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• Sweet onions or bell peppers (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: If you have sweet onions or bell peppers, slice them thinly. For frozen brats, ensure they are fully thawed.
2. Sauté (Optional): Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ and add the butter. Sauté the onions and peppers until they are soft.
3. Add the Brats and Sauerkraut: Turn off the ‘Sauté’ mode. Place the brats in the Instant Pot, then add the sauerkraut and cooking liquid (either chicken broth or beer).
4. Seal and Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot. Set to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by flipping the valve to the ‘Venting’ position using a wooden spoon.
6. Serve: Check the internal temperature ensuring it’s at least 160°F for safety. Enjoy your juicy bratwurst sausages with the flavorful sauerkraut and optional onions or peppers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of Instant Pot brats with sauerkraut as your next weeknight dinner!

Vegan bratwurst alternatives for the Instant Pot

Cooking vegan bratwurst in an Instant Pot is a simple and delicious option for a quick weeknight dinner. Here’s how:

1. Prep Time: Gather your vegan brats, along with any desired vegetables like sweet onions or bell peppers.
2. Cooking Liquids: Pour one cup of vegetable broth or apple juice into the Instant Pot. For a beer brats recipe twist, opt for non-alcoholic beers or light beer to maintain the flavor without the alcohol.
3. Brats in the Pot: Place the bratwurst sausages onto a trivet in the pressure cooker, ensuring they do not touch the liquid to prevent sogginess.
4. Pressure Cooking: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot on high pressure using the manual setting. The Cook Time should be about 5-6 minutes for thawed brats and 7-8 minutes for frozen brats.
5. Release: After cooking, apply a quick release to vent the steam promptly. If you have time, a natural release for 5 minutes before quick release can retain juiciness.
6. Internal Temperature Check: Verify that the sausages have reached the recommended internal temperature of 160°F if possible to ensure they are fully heated.
7. Service: Serve your juicy vegan sausages with your favorite sides, or sauté with onions and bell peppers for extra flavor.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy the ease and versatility of cooking vegan bratwurst alternatives in your Instant Pot, perfect for a satisfying plant-based meal.

Safety tips for consuming bratwursts

When enjoying bratwursts, whether from an Instant Pot or any other cooking method, it’s crucial to follow safety measures to ensure a delightful and risk-free dining experience. Here are the top 10 tips:

1. Proper Thawing: Thaw frozen brats in the refrigerator or a bowl of cold water, not at room temperature, which can promote bacterial growth.

• E.g.: Place frozen brats in the fridge the night before planning to cook them.

2. Clean Handling: Wash your hands before and after handling raw bratwurst to avoid cross-contamination.

• E.g.: Use warm soapy water and scrub hands for at least 20 seconds.

3. Separate Utensils and Plates: Use different utensils and plates for raw and cooked meat.

• E.g.: Once brats go into the Instant Pot, do not put them back on the same plate they were on when raw.

4. Check Internal Temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure brats reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

• E.g.: Insert the thermometer into the center of the brat, waiting a few seconds for an accurate read.

5. Avoid Partial Cooking: Cook brats completely in one go rather than partially cooking and finishing them later.

• E.g.: Ensure the Instant Pot completes its full cook cycle.

6. Prompt Refrigeration: Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

• E.g.: Refrigerate brats within two hours of cooking.

7. Reheat Safely: Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F to eliminate potential bacteria.

• E.g.: Zap the brats in the microwave until they’re piping hot throughout.

8. Observe Expiration Dates: Never consume brats past their expiration or use-by dates.

• E.g.: Always check the packaging date before purchasing or cooking.

9. Prevent Cross-Contamination During Storage: Store raw brats below other foods in the refrigerator so that juices cannot drip down and contaminate them.

• E.g.: Place raw brats on the bottom shelf in a sealed container.

10. Proper Storage: Keep uncooked brats in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag to retain freshness and prevent odors.

• • E.g.: After buying brats, transfer them to a Ziploc bag before chilling.

Understanding color variations in cooked brats

The color of cooked bratwurst can vary significantly and may not be a reliable indicator of doneness. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Myoglobin Content: The myoglobin in meat affects the coloring; brighter red meats turn brown when fully cooked, while some brats might retain a pink hue because of the seasonings and cooking method.
  • E.g.: A brat cooked in the Instant Pot might look pink even though it’s cooked to a safe temperature due to the steam being trapped inside, influencing its color.
• Spices and Ingredients: Seasonings such as paprika can influence the color, so some brats may appear redder, even when done.
  • E.g.: A beer brats recipe with a lot of paprika will have a reddish appearance after cooking.

Always use a food thermometer to check the temperature rather than relying solely on color.

Common troubleshooting for undercooked bratwurst

Encountering undercooked bratwurst can be disappointing, but it’s fixable. Should your brats come out underdone, here are steps to take:

1. Continue Cooking: Place the brats back in the pressure cooker and set it for an additional few minutes.

• • E.g.: If the brats are significantly undercooked, try pressure cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.

2. Even Cooking: Rotate the brats or switch their positions in the Instant Pot to ensure even exposure to heat.

• • E.g.: Rearrange the brats so the ones on the outside edge are moved to the center.

3. Consistent Thickness: Make sure all the brats are of equal thickness for uniform cooking.

• • E.g.: If using brats of various sizes, cook the larger ones separately to avoid undercooking.

4. Steam Seal: Check the Instant Pot’s seal and valve to ensure they are working correctly and creating the necessary pressure.

• • E.g.: Inspect the seal for wear and replace it if it’s not sealing properly.

Substitutes for beer in brat cooking

Not everyone wants to use beer in their brat recipes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a flavorful meal. Here are substitutes for beer in brat cooking:

• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Offers a savory depth of flavor.
  • E.g.: Use an equal amount of broth instead of beer for a family-friendly cooking liquid.
• Apple Juice or Cider: Provides a sweet, fruity taste that complements the savoriness of the brats.
  • E.g.: Swap beer with apple juice for a sweet twist to the traditional beer brats recipe.
• Non-Alcoholic Beer: Maintains the traditional beer brat flavor without alcohol content.
  • E.g.: Non-alcoholic beers can be a great alternative for those avoiding alcohol but wanting the beer taste.
• Water with Seasonings: Though plainer, you can amp it up with added spices and herbs.
  • E.g.: Add garlic powder, onion powder, and some bay leaves to the water for extra flavor.

Use these substitutes in equal measure to beer, and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve the desired flavor profile.

Remember, no matter the substitute, cook brats to the proper internal temperature and follow safety guidelines for a delectable and secure dining experience.

Storing leftovers: best practices

When it comes to storing leftovers, preserving the quality and safety of your food is paramount. Here are the top 10 tips to help you store your leftovers effectively:

1. Cool Quickly: Don’t leave leftovers out for more than two hours. Divide large amounts into shallow containers to cool faster.

Example: Separate leftover stew into smaller bowls instead of leaving it in the pot.

2. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent bacteria and odors.

Example: Store leftover pasta in a container with a secure lid.

3. Labeling: Label containers with the date and contents.

Example: Place a piece of tape on the container and write “Chili – March 1st.”

4. Refrigerator Temperature: Keep your fridge below 40°F to inhibit bacterial growth.

Example: Use a fridge thermometer to check the temperature.

5. Use Within 3-4 Days: Consume refrigerated leftovers within this timeframe for safety.

Example: If you made lasagna on Monday, plan to eat it by Thursday.

6. Freezing: Freeze leftovers if you can’t eat them soon.

Example: Place leftover soup in an airtight container and freeze for later.

7. Reheating: Ensure leftovers reach 165°F when reheating.

Example: Use a food thermometer to check the temperature of reheated chicken.

8. Don’t Reheat Twice: Reheat only what you will eat to avoid quality loss.

Example: Only microwave the portion of casserole you can eat at once.

9. Keep Moisture Out: Prevent freezer burn by removing as much air as possible.

Example: Press the air out of a freezer bag before sealing it.

10. Discard Unusual Smelling/Tasting Food: If in doubt, throw it out.

Example: If the leftover milk smells sour, it’s best to discard it.

Remember, proper storage not only extends the shelf life of your food but also helps maintain its taste and nutritional value.

Serving suggestions for bratwurst dishes

When serving bratwurst dishes, one must consider accompaniments that complement the savory flavor of the sausage. Here are ten top tips for delightful bratwurst pairings:

1. Sauerkraut: A classic German side, its vinegary tang balances the brats’ richness.

• Example: Top a brat in a bun with a generous helping of sauerkraut.

2. Mustard: Opt for a robust stone-ground mustard for dipping or spreading.

• Example: Serve a small bowl of mustard on the side for guests to add to their liking.

3. Grilled Onions and Peppers: Sweet onions and bell peppers offer a sweet contrast.

• Example: Sauté onions and peppers until caramelized and serve them atop bratwursts.

4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad makes a hearty pairing.

• Example: Combine potatoes with a creamy dressing and serve as a side dish.

5. Pretzel Buns: Use pretzel buns for a fun twist on the classic brat bun.

• Example: Serve brats in pretzel buns with a side of mustard.

6. Baked Beans: The sweetness complements the brats’ savoriness.

• Example: Offer a bowl of baked beans flavored with bacon as a side.

7. Apple Slaw: A slaw with apples provides a crisp texture and a hint of sweetness.

• Example: Toss julienned apples with cabbage and dressing for a refreshing side.

8. German Beer: A cold lager or pilsner matches well with the flavors of bratwurst.

• Example: Serve a selection of German beers to accompany the meal.

9. Spaetzle: These small German dumplings are a perfect comfort food companion.

• Example: Serve buttered spaetzle alongside bratwursts.

10. Pickled Vegetables: Add a zing with various pickled veggies.

• Example: Offer a platter of pickled cucumbers, beets, and cauliflower.

Remember, the key is to balance the bratwurst’s flavors with sides that offer contrasting tastes and textures for a satisfying meal.

Essential equipment for cooking brats in the Instant Pot

Cooking brats in an Instant Pot is a simple process that requires a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure the best results. Here are the top 10:

1. Instant Pot: The star of the show, it acts as a pressure cooker and sometimes a slow cooker for cooking brats to juicy perfection.
2. Wooden Spoon: Handy for gently turning the brats without piercing the skin, ensuring the juices stay inside.
3. Trivet: Elevates the brats slightly to prevent sticking and to cook evenly in the pressure cooker.
4. Measuring Cup: For precisely measuring liquids like chicken broth, beer, or apple juice, which are used as the cooking liquids.
5. Tongs: Essential for safely transferring the brats to and from the hot Instant Pot.
6. Instant Read Thermometer: Ensures the internal temperature of the brats reaches a safe level of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Knife and Cutting board: Needed for slicing sweet onions or bell peppers if you’re making a more elaborate bratwurst dish.
8. Airtight Container: For storing leftovers, an airtight container keeps brats fresh in the refrigerator.
9. Aluminum Foil: Useful if you wish to wrap and rest the brats after cooking to maintain moisture.
10. Air Fryer Lid or Crisp Lid (optional): Some might want to finish their brats with a crisp exterior. The air fryer lid for the Instant Pot can be effective for this.

Each piece serves its role in delivering a weeknight dinner of juicy brats that’s both efficient and enjoyable.