Slow Cooker Beer Brats are a tasty treat that brings a party vibe to your kitchen! Juicy bratwurst cooked slowly in beer make these loaded with flavor.
The best part? You can just toss them in and let the slow cooker do all the work. Perfect for game days or cozy dinners—pair them with a bun and your favorite toppings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst: The star of this dish! Choose high-quality bratwurst for the best flavor. If you want a lighter option, try turkey or chicken bratwurst. They will still bring good taste to the dish.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness and depth. You can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor or skip the onions entirely if you’re not a fan.
Beer: The recipe suggests lager or ale, which bring richness. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, use non-alcoholic beer or even apple cider for a unique flavor twist!
Broth: Beef broth complements the sausages well. If you’re looking for a lighter taste, chicken broth is great, too. Vegetable broth is a suitable alternative for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Brats in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking bratwurst in a slow cooker is all about patience and letting the flavors meld. The process is simple, but here are some tips to ensure they come out delicious every time:
- Layer sliced onions at the bottom for a flavor base that infuses the brats as they cook.
- Mix the beer and broth thoroughly before pouring it over the brats to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours for the best tenderness. If you’re short on time, the high setting of 3-4 hours works, too.
- If you like a crisp exterior, grill or sear the brats after they come out of the cooker. Just a few minutes on each side is enough!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beer Brats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brats:
- 6 bratwurst sausages
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale recommended)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or chicken broth
For the Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (Optional):
- Buns for serving
- Mustard and sauerkraut for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Slow Cooker Beer Brats recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then allows for 6-8 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. After cooking, you can take a few extra minutes to crisp up the sausages if you’d like. It’s a perfect meal to set and forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Onions:
First, grab your slow cooker and place the sliced onions right at the bottom. This makes a tasty bed for the bratwurst to sit on and adds great flavor.
2. Add the Sausages:
Next, lay the bratwurst sausages on top of the sliced onions. They will soak up all those delicious flavors as they cook!
3. Make the Flavorful Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the beer, broth, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well blended.
4. Pour It All Over:
Carefully pour this tasty beer mixture over the bratwurst and onions in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is nice and coated!
5. Get Cooking:
Now, cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. You can choose low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The brats are done when they’re cooked through and nice and tender.
6. Remove and Crisp Up:
Once cooked, use tongs to carefully lift the bratwurst out of the liquid. If you like them crispy, you can grill them or sear in a hot skillet for just a few minutes on each side. This adds a nice texture!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the bratwurst in buns, topped with mustard and sauerkraut if you’re using them. Dig in and enjoy your delicious beer brats!
Can I Use Chicken Sausages Instead of Bratwurst?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken sausages for bratwurst if you prefer a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for doneness a bit earlier.
What Kind of Beer Should I Use?
Lager or ale are both excellent choices for this recipe, as they provide a nice flavor. However, you can also use a non-alcoholic beer or even vegetable broth if you want to skip the alcohol altogether. The key is to choose something you enjoy drinking!
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Brats?
Store leftover brats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes! You can prepare beer brats on the stovetop. Just sauté the onions in a large pot until they’re soft, add the bratwursts, then pour in the beer mixture. Simmer covered on low for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through. Enjoy!
