Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a classic German-inspired grill-out? Bratwursts are the star of the show at any outdoor gathering, and when paired with the right toppings and sides, they can elevate your backyard bash from meh to magnificent. Whether you’re a long-time bratwurst fan or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your grilling routine, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’re counting down our top 20 delicious bratwurst recipes perfect for grilling. From classic pairings like sauerkraut and mustard to creative twists like beer-braised onions and caramelized peppers, there’s something on this list for every palate.
Classic German Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and Mustard
A traditional German recipe that combines the savory flavor of bratwurst with the tanginess of sauerkraut and the spiciness of mustard. This classic dish is perfect for a casual gathering or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages (traditional pork and beef blend)
– 1 cup Sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons Mustard (German-style or Dijon)
– 1 tablespoon Butter
– 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill Bratwurst sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, until nicely browned and cooked through.
3. While the sausage is cooking, melt Butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add thinly sliced Onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 10 minutes).
5. Stir in Sauerkraut and Mustard. Heat until warmed through.
6. Serve Bratwurst sausages with Sauerkraut-Mustard mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Beer-Braised Bratwurst with Onions
This classic recipe combines the savory flavors of bratwurst and caramelized onions with the richness of beer, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 12 oz beer (any style)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and cook until they start to caramelize, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
4. Add the bratwurst sausages to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes on each side, until browned.
5. Pour in the beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 45-50 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the onions are tender.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with caraway seeds (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Grilled Bratwurst with Peppers and Onions
Grilled Bratwurst with Peppers and Onions: A classic summer recipe that’s perfect for backyard gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite barbecue sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sliced onions and bell peppers.
3. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the bratwurst sausages for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill the vegetable mixture for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
6. Serve bratwurst sausages with grilled peppers and onions, and add your favorite barbecue sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Bratwurst and Potato Skillet
A hearty and satisfying skillet dish that combines the flavors of traditional German bratwurst with the comfort of crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Arrange the sliced potatoes on top of the onion mixture, overlapping slightly.
5. Place the sliced bratwurst on top of the potatoes.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, flipping occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bratwurst Breakfast Hash with Eggs
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast featuring juicy bratwurst and crispy potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss potatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, cook Bratwurst sausages in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly. Pour into the same skillet as the bratwurst and scramble until cooked through.
7. Serve Bratwurst on top of potato hash with scrambled eggs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and hearty stir-fry that combines the savory taste of bratwurst with the crunch of sautéed cabbage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bratwurst sausages and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
5. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until tender.
7. Slice the cooked bratwurst sausages into thick rounds.
8. Add the sausage slices back into the skillet with the cabbage mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with caraway seeds or paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bratwurst Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip
Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer, these bite-sized treats combine the flavors of bratwurst and pretzels with a creamy cheese dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of bratwurst sausage
– 1 bag of pretzel rods
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bratwurst into 1-inch pieces and cook in a pan over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Meanwhile, place pretzel rods on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the tops of the pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Bake pretzels for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded cheese and milk until smooth.
7. Serve bratwurst and pretzel bites with warm cheese dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Bratwurst with Apples and Cider
This recipe combines the warm spices of bratwurst with the sweet flavors of apples and cider, perfect for a cozy fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bratwurst sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sliced onions to the slow cooker.
2. Place bratwurst sausages on top of the onions.
3. Add sliced apples, apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve with crusty bread or buns.
Tips:
– Use a mixture of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of apple cider to your desired level of juiciness.
– Serve with a side of sauerkraut or caramelized onions for added depth of flavor.
Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of traditional German cuisine with a twist. A perfect blend of savory bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bratwurst over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, sauerkraut, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and dot with butter.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bratwurst Hoagie with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering Bratwurst Hoagie featuring juicy sausages, sweet caramelized onions, and crispy hoagies.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Provolone cheese, shredded (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook bratwurst sausages for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, toast hoagie rolls by grilling or toasting in the oven.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked bratwurst on toasted hoagies, topped with caramelized onions, provolone cheese (if using), and a sprinkle of parsley (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting German-inspired soup, packed with flavorful bratwurst and tender beans. Perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly weekend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bratwurst sausage
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bratwurst sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bratwurst Pizza with Beer Crust
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of savory bratwurst and malty beer crust, topped with caramelized onions and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm beer (any style)
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 lb bratwurst, sliced
– 1 large onion, caramelized
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm beer and mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then let rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Top with sliced bratwurst, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Bratwurst-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of bratwurst. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound bratwurst, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook bratwurst in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the bratwurst mixture, topping with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bratwurst and Cheese Quesadillas
Bratwurst and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe
Experience the fusion of German and Mexican cuisines with this unique recipe that combines bratwurst, cheese, and tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the bratwurst sausages into 1-inch pieces and cook in the skillet for about 5 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add 2-3 slices of cooked bratwurst on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bratwurst Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of savory bratwurst sausage. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 bratwurst sausages, sliced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and sliced bratwurst sausage in butter until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese with milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Sweet Potato Foil Packets
Savor the flavors of Germany with this easy-to-make recipe that combines juicy bratwurst sausages with sweet and tender sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages (German-style or knockwurst work well)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, garlic powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
3. Place a bratwurst sausage on each section of the foil, leaving a small border around each sausage.
4. Arrange sweet potato slices around the sausage in a single layer, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potatoes and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients to create packets, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bratwurst and Kale Stew
This German-inspired stew combines savory bratwurst sausage with tender kale and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add bratwurst and cook, turning occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove sausage from pot; set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add kale, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return bratwurst to pot; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and kale is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bratwurst Sliders with Spicy Mayo
These bite-sized bratwurst sandwiches are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer. The addition of spicy mayo takes them to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 1/2 cup Spicy Mayo (see below)
– 4 small buns
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Optional toppings: sliced onions, bell peppers, and mustard
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill Bratwurst sausages for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast buns by grilling them lightly or baking in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
4. Spread Spicy Mayo on each bun half.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a grilled Bratwurst sausage on each bun half and top with desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bratwurst and Pierogi Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the classic flavors of German bratwurst with Polish pierogi, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. In this recipe, juicy bratwurst sausages are cooked with crispy pierogi and topped with caramelized onions and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 1 package of Pierogi (various fillings work well)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the bratwurst sausages according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cooked pierogi to the skillet and toss with the onions.
5. Place the bratwurst sausages on top of the pierogi.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bratwurst and Roasted Vegetable Platter
Savor the flavors of Germany with this hearty platter featuring juicy bratwurst sausages paired with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 2 large red potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite mustard or barbecue sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the sliced bell peppers, zucchinis, and potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, grill or pan-fry the bratwurst sausages according to package instructions.
7. Serve the roasted vegetables alongside the cooked bratwurst sausages.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the delicious flavors of Germany with these 20 mouthwatering bratwurst recipes! From classic combinations like sauerkraut and mustard, to innovative twists like beer-braised onions and sweet potato foil packets, there’s a recipe here for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, these bratwurst dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, grab some buns, and get grilling!