Name: Oven-Braised Beer Brats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Bratwurst sausages; 1 cup Beer; 1 large Onion (sliced); 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 teaspoon Brown sugar

Okay, friends, let me tell you about something that’s become a total staple in our house. Oven-Braised Beer Brat If you’re a fan of juicy, flavorful sausage that practically melts in your mouth, you should try it. Is there a way to try it? What’s the best beer-soaked bratwurst you’ve ever had at a summer barbecue? What are some of the best recipes to cook in your oven? Is it easier than grilling? What’s a huge step up from your average weeknight dinner? It uses ingredients you probably already have. What are some of the best Oven-Braised Beer Brats?

What is oven-braised beer brat?

What are Oven-Braised Beer Brats? What is essentially taking your favorite bratwurst – whether it’s pork, beef, or even chicken – and adding it to a salad. What is the best way to give a beer bath in beer broth? Think of it as a slow-cooked symphony of flavors where the brats soak up all the goodness from the brine. Beer, onions, spices. What is the oven braising process? Is it a one-pot wonder? The beauty is the low and slow cooking method. This isn’t a quick sear. Is it a gentle simmer that creates an unbelievable depth of flavor?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this recipe is a winner. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The beer infuses the brats with this slightly malty, savory taste that’s just irresistible. The onions caramelize beautifully, adding sweetness and depth. It’s a complex flavor profile from super simple ingredients.

But beyond the incredible taste, what I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is to make. Seriously, this is a dump-and-go kind of recipe. Minimal prep, minimal cleanup – maximum flavor! This is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

And let’s not forget the cost-effectiveness! Brats are generally pretty budget-friendly, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. You can feed a whole family for relatively little, which is always a win in my book. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile. You can serve these Oven-Braised Beer Brats on buns with your favorite toppings, slice them up and add them to pasta, or even enjoy them on their own with a side of mashed potatoes or sauerkraut. I’ve even chopped them up and added them to a cheesy casserole – trust me, it’s divine! These braised beer brats are perfect as is, on a bun, or even with a side of mashed potatoes.

How do you make oven-braised beer brats?

Quick Overview

How do you make a beer brat? How do you layer onions in a Dutch oven? What is the best way to pour your favorite beer on top? Add a few seasonings, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic! The low and slow cooking process tenderizes the brats and infuses them with the rich, savory flavor. What is the difference between beer and onions? Is it so easy?

Ingredients

For the Oven-Braised Beer Brats:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
* 1 pound bratwurst (about 5-6 links), I prefer Johnsonville!
* 1 (12 ounce) bottle of your favorite beer (I like a good amber ale or a German lager, but anything works!)
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
* Optional: 1 bay leaf

For Serving (optional):
* Brat buns
* Sauerkraut
* Mustard
* Pickles

What are the steps in

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grab your Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. If you don’t have a 9×13 baking dish, you can use it. Is it necessary to grease the bottom of a pan because we’re going to use olive oil in the next step?

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add the olive oil to the Dutch oven over medium heat on the stove top. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re softened and starting to caramelize. This step is super important because those caramelized onions add so much flavor to the final dish.

Step 3: Layer the Brats

Remove the Dutch oven from the heat. Arrange the bratwurst links on top of the sautéed onions in a single layer. How do I pack them in there a little bit, but try not to overcrowd them. How do I cook a chicken breast?

Step 4: Add the Beer and Broth

Pour beer and chicken broth over bratwurst. Make sure the brats are mostly submerged in the liquid. What’s going to make them super juicy and tender?

Step 5: Season and Bake

If you’re using a bay leaf, add it now. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the brats are cooked through and the onions are very tender. I always check my glasses after an hour to make sure the liquid hasn’t completely evaporated. If it looks dry, add a little more broth.

Step 6: Broil (Optional)

For extra color, remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow the brats to brown. If you want a deeper color, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes. How do I keep my fingers from burning?

Step 7: Serve

Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Let the Oven-Braised Beer Brats rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve on brat buns with sauerkraut, mustard, and pickles, or enjoy them on their own. What are your favorite side I love mashed potatoes with a salad. They are delicious.

What should I serve it with?

What are the benefits of oven braised beer brats? Can you serve them with anything?For a Classic Cookout Vibe: (CreateI’m partial to a good stone-ground! Load them up on brat buns with sauerkraut, mustard. What are some good Side Dishes to serve with potato salad?What is a good weeknight meal?Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. What is the best braising liquid to make?What is the best way to celebrate Oktoberfest?Embrace the German theme and serve them with potato dumplings (Kartoffelknödel), red cabbage and arugula. (Rotkohl), and of course, plenty of beer!For a Crowd-Pleasing Appe Slice the brats and serve them on a platter with toothpicks alongside a variety of mustards and dipping sauces. A simple cheese and cracker board would also be a great addition.
Honestly, sometimes I just eat them straight out of the pot with a fork! They’re that good.

How do you make a perfect beer brat?

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make these Oven-Braised Beer Brats absolutely perfect.

Don’t skimp on onions. They are delicious!What are the best onions in a dish? Make sure you use plenty of them, and don’t be afraid to let them caramelize a bit before adding the water.What is the best beer to drink?Is there a good amber ale for this recipe? Avoid anything too hoppy or bitter, as it can overpower the other flavors. I’ve tried it with a stout before, and while interesting, it wasn’t my favorite.Don’t overcrowd the pan. Don Make sure the brats are arranged in a single layer so they cook evenly. If you have too many brats for your pot, you can cook them in batches.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings.I like to keep it simple with thyme, salt, and pepper, but you can definitely add other herbs and spices. What spices do you like? Garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika are good substitutes for red pepper flakes.Adjust the cooking time as needed: 3-4 hours.How long does it take for brats to cook? If you have a Slow Cooker, check it after an hour and adjust the cooking time accordingly.Let them rest before serving.Let brats rest for a few minutes before serving helps to keep them juicy and flavorful.

Storing and Reheating Tips

These Oven-Braised Beer Brats are even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch!

Storing: Store leftover brats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to include some of the braising liquid, as this will help to keep them moist.

Reheating: You can reheat the brats in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave.

*Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brats in a baking dish with some of the braising liquid and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

*Stovetop: Place the brats in a saucepan with some of the braising liquid and heat over medium heat until heated through.

*Microwave: Place the brats in a microwave-safe dish with some of the braising liquid and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing: To freeze, let the brats cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container with some of the braising liquid. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While this recipe is specifically for bratwurst, you can easily substitute other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, kielbasa, or even chorizo. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the type of sausage you use. I recommend monitoring the internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.

Can I use a non-alcoholic beer?

Yes, you can definitely use a non-alcoholic beer if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. You could also substitute with additional chicken broth, but you’ll miss some of the depth of flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

You sure can! Sauté the onions on the stovetop as directed in the recipe, then transfer them to your slow cooker. Add the bratwurst, beer, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the pot along with the onions. Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even potatoes would all be great additions.

How can I make this spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot along with the other seasonings. You could also use a spicy bratwurst or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the braising liquid.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Oven-Braised Beer Brats! It’s the perfect combination of flavor, ease, and affordability, and I know you’re going to love it just as much as my family does. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit. And if you’re a fan of one-pot meals, be sure to check out my other recipes for skillet lasagna and creamy tomato pasta. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe – your feedback helps other readers find the best recipes online. Happy cooking!

No ratings yet