These Slow Cooker Beer Brats are a easy and tasty treat! Juicy sausages simmer in beer and spices, making them full of flavor. Perfect for game day or a lazy weekend!
What I love most is how the slow cooker does all the work. Just throw everything in, and you’ll have delicious brats ready to enjoy in no time. Who’s hungry? 🍺🌭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst: These sausages are the star of the dish. If you can’t find bratwurst, try using Italian sausages or even turkey sausages for a lighter option.
Beer: A lager or amber beer works best for flavor. However, if you prefer non-alcoholic options, you could substitute with apple cider or a non-alcoholic beer for a similar taste.
Onions: Sliced onions add sweetness to the dish. You can mix it up by using sweet onions like Vidalia for extra flavor. Shallots also make an excellent substitute!
Mustard: Yellow mustard is standard, but grainy mustard gives a nice texture. Feel free to use Dijon or even a spicy mustard if you prefer some heat!
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Sausages?
Browning the bratwurst before adding them to the slow cooker makes a big difference in flavor. This step caramelizes the outside and creates a lovely texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat a skillet on medium-high heat.
- Add a little oil for better browning, then place the bratwurst in the pan.
- Cook, turning regularly until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it for that tasty, grilled flavor!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beer Brats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beer Brats:
- 4-6 bratwurst sausages
- 2-3 medium onions, sliced
- 1-2 bottles (12 oz each) of your favorite beer (lager or amber works well)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or grainy)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: buns for serving
- Optional: toppings like sauerkraut, mustard, or sliced jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and browning, then you’ll need to let it cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a laid-back day or when you want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Slow Cooker:
Start by preheating your slow cooker on the low setting. This will help your brats cook evenly and get nice and tender.
2. Brown the Sausages (Optional):
If you have a bit of extra time, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Place the bratwursts in the skillet and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step adds some great flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip this and go straight to the next step!
3. Layer the Onions:
Slice up your onions and spread them nicely in the bottom of the slow cooker. They not only add a delicious flavor but will also get wonderfully sweet as they cook.
4. Add the Bratwurst:
Now, take the browned bratwursts and lay them on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Make sure the sausages are spread out for even cooking.
5. Mix and Pour the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the beer, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and then pour this mixture over the sausages and onions. It will soak in and create a delicious sauce as it cooks!
6. Slow Cook Your Brats:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the sausages are cooked through and tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your sausages are ready, carefully remove them from the slow cooker. If you like, serve them in buns and add your favorite toppings, like mustard, sauerkraut, or sliced jalapeños. Enjoy your tasty slow cooker beer brats!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute bratwurst with other types of sausages, such as Italian sausage or turkey sausage. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of sausage you choose, so ensure they are cooked all the way through before serving!
What Type of Beer Works Best for This Recipe?
A lager or amber beer is a great choice for this recipe due to its balanced flavor. However, you can experiment with other types like a wheat beer or a stout for a different taste! Just note that stronger beers might overpower the dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover beer brats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If they seem dry, adding a splash of beer or broth can help moisten them up!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare everything the night before. Just brown the sausages and mix the ingredients, then refrigerate them separately. In the morning, place the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook as instructed. This is a great time-saver!
