Slow Cooker Beer Brats are an easy and tasty meal to enjoy. Juicy bratwurst simmer in beer with onions, making them super flavorful and tender. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
These brats are so simple to prepare! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. I love serving them on warm buns with mustard—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst Sausages: These are the star of the dish. Look for quality bratwurst for the best flavor. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, turkey or chicken bratwurst can work well, too.
Onions: Sliced onions add sweetness and flavor. I prefer yellow onions, but you can use red onions or shallots for a slightly different taste.
Beer: Lager is traditional in this recipe, but any beer you enjoy will work. For a non-alcoholic option, try using a non-alcoholic beer or a flavorful broth.
Dijon Mustard: I like using Dijon for a bit of a kick, but you can also opt for yellow mustard if you prefer something milder.
Brown Sugar: This helps balance the flavors. Honey or maple syrup can substitute if you need a different sweetener.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker means low and slow cooking, which helps flavors meld beautifully. Start by layering your onions at the bottom; this keeps them moist and infuses their sweetness into the brats. When mixing your beer sauce, whisk thoroughly to combine flavors. Pour it over the sausages and onions, ensuring even coverage.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Low heat makes for more tender brats.
- For a nice texture, grill the sausages for a few minutes after cooking in the slow cooker; this adds a delicious char.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beer Brats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brats:
- 4-6 bratwurst sausages
- 2-3 onions, sliced
For the Cooking Liquid:
- 2 cups lager beer (or your favorite beer)
- 2 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Buns for serving
- Optional toppings: sauerkraut, mustard, pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and then you’ll let your slow cooker do the work for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it in the morning or early afternoon and enjoy delicious brats for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by slicing the onions into thin rings. Place the sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a lovely base for the brats as they cook.
2. Add the Bratwurst:
Now, lay the bratwurst sausages over the onions. Don’t worry about them being packed in; they’ll cook down and become tender as they soak up all that beer goodness!
3. Mix the Cooking Liquid:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the lager beer, mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This mixture will add flavor to your brats.
4. Combine and Cook:
Pour the beer mixture over the sausages and onions in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is nicely coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just let it do its thing!
5. Serve the Brats:
Once they’re cooked and tender, it’s time to enjoy! Serve the bratwursts in buns and top them with your favorite toppings like sauerkraut, mustard, or pickles.
6. Optional Grilling:
If you want an extra layer of flavor, you can grill the brats for a couple of minutes after they are done cooking in the slow cooker. This will give them a nice charred exterior and enhance that delicious taste!
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Beer Brats and savor each bite!
### FAQ for Slow Cooker Beer Brats
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is traditional, you can substitute with other sausages like Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegan sausages. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type and thickness of the sausage.
What If I Don’t Have Lager Beer?
No problem! You can use any beer you like, such as a pale ale or stout. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try using non-alcoholic beer or even chicken broth for similar flavor without the alcohol.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the sausages and onion mixture or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You can enjoy them again in buns or as part of a hearty casserole!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep everything the night before! Slice the onions and place them in the slow cooker with the brats, then mix the beer sauce and pour it over the top. Cover and store in the fridge overnight, then cook as directed the next day for a delicious, easy meal!
