Slow Cooker Beer Brats are a simple and tasty meal! Juicy bratwursts are simmered in beer and seasonings, making them packed with flavor. Perfect for game day or a weekend cookout!
Getting to smell them cooking all day is a true delight! I love serving them in buns with a bit of mustard, and it’s hard to stop at just one. Cheers to easy cooking! 🍻
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst: The star of this dish! Look for fresh bratwurst at the butcher or deli for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, turkey or chicken sausages work well. Veggie-based bratwurst is also an excellent option for a lighter meal.
Beer: A lager or ale adds a rich flavor to the bratwurst. If you’re not a beer drinker, try using chicken or vegetable broth instead. It won’t have the same depth, but it will keep the sausages moist.
Onions: Sweet onions are ideal because they caramelize nicely in the slow cooker. If you prefer a sharper taste, yellow or red onions can be good substitutes. You could even use shallots for a milder flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a delightful tang. If you’re out, yellow mustard works in a pinch. For a twist, try spicy brown mustard or even a honey mustard for some sweetness!
How Do I Get the Best Flavors from My Slow Cooker?
Cooking with a slow cooker takes patience but brings out incredible flavors. To get the best from your beer brats, follow these steps:
- **Layering Ingredients:** Start with onions, then add your liquids and spices before placing the bratwurst on top. This helps to flavor the sausages thoroughly.
- **Cook Time:** Low and slow is the name of the game! Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush it; the longer cooking time really enhances the taste.
- **Searing for Extra Flavor:** After slow cooking, a quick grill or sear gives the bratwurst a lovely crust. It adds texture and takes the flavor up a notch!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beer Brats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4-6 bratwurst sausages
- 2 cans (12 oz each) of beer (preferably a lager or ale)
- 1 large onion, sliced
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Buns, for serving
- Optional toppings: sauerkraut, mustard, and chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then lets the slow cooker do the work! You’ll need to cook the brats for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, set it up in the morning or during the day, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker:
Start by preheating your slow cooker. This is an important step to help your ingredients blend together beautifully.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In the warmed slow cooker, add the sliced onions, beer, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all these tasty ingredients.
3. Add the Bratwurst:
Once your sauce is ready, nestle the bratwurst sausages into the slow cooker. Make sure they are mostly submerged in the delicious beer mixture. This will allow them to soak up all those wonderful flavors!
4. Time to Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the sausages are fully cooked and bursting with flavor. Feel free to check in and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma as they cook!
5. Optional Step for Extra Flavor:
If you want to take it up a notch, after the sausages finish cooking, you can briefly grill or sear them on a grill or skillet. This will give them a nice crispy layer and even more flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve those delectable bratwursts in buns and top them with sauerkraut, mustard, and chopped fresh parsley if you’d like. Enjoy your hearty meal with family or friends. Yum!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is traditional, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, like Italian sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as different sausages can have different thicknesses.
What Kind of Beer Works Best?
For this recipe, a lager or ale is recommended because their flavors will complement the sausages nicely. However, if you prefer a stronger taste, a stout or porter can add a rich depth as well! Just keep in mind that the flavor of the beer will affect the final taste of the dish.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the brats and beer mixture the night before; just refrigerate it in the slow cooker insert. In the morning, place it in the slow cooker and let it cook as usual. This is a great way to have dinner ready after a busy day!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover brats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beer or water to keep them moist, and cover until heated through. You can also pop them in the microwave for a quicker option!
