Cheddar stuffed bacon wrapped brats are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves bold flavors and satisfying comfort food. This dish combines the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon with the rich, melty cheddar inside a juicy bratwurst.
Perfect for those following a keto lifestyle, this recipe offers a high-protein, low-carb option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Why These Brats Are a Must-Try
This dish takes a classic bratwurst and elevates it with layers of flavor. The creamy cheddar filling adds a rich, gooey contrast to the crisp outer bacon layer, making every bite irresistible.
The air fryer method ensures a perfectly cooked brat with a crispy bacon exterior, all while locking in the juiciness of the sausage. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that requires minimal ingredients and effort—ideal for busy days or last-minute meal prep.
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A Keto-Friendly Favorite
For those following a keto diet, finding satisfying meals that align with low-carb guidelines can sometimes be a challenge. This recipe fits seamlessly into keto meal plans, providing plenty of protein and healthy fats without unnecessary carbs.
With low net carbs per serving, these brats make for an easy and delicious way to stay on track. Whether served on their own, with a side of leafy greens, or alongside roasted vegetables, they’re a perfect addition to any keto-friendly menu.
Perfect for Game Days & Gatherings
Cheddar stuffed bacon wrapped brats are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. These brats make an excellent addition to game-day spreads, backyard barbecues, or casual get-togethers.
Their handheld nature makes them an easy party snack, and their bold flavors ensure they stand out on any table. Serve them with mustard, a side of pickles, or even a keto-friendly dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Tips for Making the Best Bacon-Wrapped Brats
To get the best results, consider these helpful tips:
- Use high-quality bratwurst: The flavor of the brat makes a huge difference in the final dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality sausages for the best taste.
- Secure the bacon: Wrapping the bacon tightly around the brat and securing it with toothpicks helps ensure it stays in place while cooking.
- Don’t overstuff the cheese: While adding extra cheddar might be tempting, too much can leak out during cooking. Stick to a moderate amount for the best balance.
- Adjust cooking time based on bacon thickness: If using thick-cut bacon, a slightly longer cooking time may be needed to get that perfect crispy texture.
Customization & Add-Ons
One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to customize. While cheddar is a classic choice, experimenting with other cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella can create different flavor profiles.
For an extra kick, adding jalapeños or onions inside the brat can bring a spicy and slightly sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
If you’re serving these for a meal rather than a snack, pair them with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower mash, sautéed Brussels sprouts, or a fresh avocado salad. The combination of textures and flavors will turn this simple dish into a full, satisfying meal.
Easy Meal Prep & Storage
This recipe is also a great option for meal prepping. The brats can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
If making a larger batch, they can also be frozen and air-fried straight from frozen with just a slight adjustment in cooking time. This makes them an easy grab-and-cook option for busy days when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Keto Twist
If you’re looking for keto recipes that bring big flavors with minimal effort, cheddar stuffed bacon wrapped brats should be at the top of your list. They deliver all the savory goodness you crave without the carbs, making them a perfect choice for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.
Keto Cheddar-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Brats Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 bratwursts
- 5 sticks of cheddar
- 5 slices of bacon
Optional Add-ins:
- Onions
- Jalapeños
Instructions
- Slice each bratwurst lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling.
- Insert a cheddar stick into the slit of each bratwurst, ensuring it is fully enclosed.
- Wrap each stuffed bratwurst tightly with a slice of bacon, securing the ends if needed.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the wrapped brats in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra spice, add sliced jalapeños inside the bratwurst along with the cheese.
- To enhance flavor, sprinkle with your favorite keto-friendly seasonings before air frying.
- Serve with keto-friendly dips or mustard for added taste.
Nutrition
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.