Introduction: Craving a Hearty, Flavorful Meal?
Want a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for game days, family dinners, or backyard gatherings? Brats with Sauerkraut is the ultimate recipe! This slow-cooker meal combines juicy bratwurst with tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and savory bacon, all enhanced with brown sugar and mustard for a perfect balance of flavors. Served on soft brat buns, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish with bold German-inspired taste. Ready to create a mouthwatering, hassle-free meal? Let’s dive into this savory recipe!
Overview: Why Brats with Sauerkraut Are Special
Brats with Sauerkraut is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s effortlessly made in a slow cooker. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Time Requirement: About 15 minutes prep, 6-8 hours cooking on Low, for a total of about 6-8 hours (mostly inactive).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Simple layering and slow cooking make it ideal for beginners or busy cooks.
- Why It’s Unique: The slow cooker infuses bratwurst with a tangy-sweet sauerkraut mixture, featuring apples for sweetness, bacon for smokiness, and mustard for a zesty kick. The combination of textures and flavors creates a satisfying sandwich that’s both comforting and bold. This recipe serves 8, perfect for gatherings, parties, or family meals with leftovers.
This recipe is savory, versatile, and perfect for sausage lovers or fans of German-inspired, hands-off dishes. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 8 and uses pantry staples for a robust dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Brats and Sauerkraut:
- 8 uncooked bratwurst links
- 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut, rinsed and well drained
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped
- 3 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- For Assembly:
- 8 brat buns, split
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Bratwurst Links: Juicy, flavorful sausages that soak up the sauerkraut mixture.
- Sauerkraut: Adds tangy, fermented flavor and a crisp texture.
- Apples: Provide natural sweetness to balance the tartness.
- Bacon: Brings smoky, savory depth.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances sweetness and caramelizes the mixture.
- Onion: Adds savory, aromatic flavor.
- Ground Mustard: Offers a sharp, zesty kick.
- Brat Buns: Soft, sturdy buns that hold the juicy brats and topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Bratwurst: Swap with kielbasa, Italian sausage, or vegan sausages (adjust cooking time if pre-cooked).
- Sauerkraut: Use homemade sauerkraut or reduce to 1 cup for less tanginess.
- Apples: Replace with pears or 1/2 cup applesauce for similar sweetness.
- Bacon: Swap with turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit for vegetarian (add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for smokiness).
- Brown Sugar: Use maple syrup, honey, or reduce to 2 tablespoons for less sweetness.
- Onion: Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or 1/4 cup shallots.
- Ground Mustard: Replace with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds.
- Buns: Use hot dog buns, pretzel buns, or lettuce wraps for low-carb.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns and ensure sauerkraut and bacon are gluten-free.
- Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or 1 tablespoon diced jalapeños to the sauerkraut mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Brats with Sauerkraut is quick and straightforward, with a slow-cooker method that does most of the work. Follow these steps for a perfect meal!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Rinse and drain 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut well to remove excess brine.
- Peel and finely chop 2 medium apples.
- Cook 3 bacon strips until crispy (microwave, stovetop, or oven), then crumble.
- Measure 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 1 teaspoon ground mustard.
- Gather 8 uncooked bratwurst links and 8 brat buns.
- Grease a 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Tip: Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to avoid a soggy mixture; chop apples finely for even blending.
Step 2: Layer the Slow Cooker
- Add Brats: Place 8 bratwurst links in the bottom of the greased 5-quart slow cooker.
- Make Sauerkraut Mixture: In a large bowl, combine drained sauerkraut, chopped apples, crumbled bacon, brown sugar, chopped onion, and ground mustard. Mix well.
- Top Brats: Spoon the sauerkraut mixture evenly over the bratwurst, covering them.
Tip: Arrange brats in a single layer if possible; spread sauerkraut mixture evenly to ensure all brats are flavored.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours, until a thermometer inserted into the bratwurst reads at least 160°F (71°C).
Tip: Check at 6 hours with a thermometer to avoid overcooking; don’t lift the lid often to maintain heat.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Prep Buns: Split 8 brat buns and toast lightly if desired (in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or on a skillet).
- Add Brats: Using tongs, place 1 bratwurst in each bun.
- Top with Sauerkraut: Using a slotted spoon, spoon the sauerkraut mixture over each brat, ensuring some apples and bacon are included.
- Serve: Serve immediately, with extra sauerkraut mixture on the side if desired.
Tip: Use a slotted spoon to avoid soggy buns; serve with napkins for juicy, messy bites.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Brats with Sauerkraut
Assembling these sandwiches is all about creating juicy brats with a tangy-sweet topping. Here’s how to put it together:
- Layer Brats: Place sausages in the slow cooker for even cooking.
- Add Sauerkraut Mix: Combine sauerkraut, apples, bacon, and seasonings for a flavorful topping.
- Cook: Slow cook until brats are tender and flavors meld.
- Assemble: Place brats in buns and pile on the sauerkraut mixture.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve on a rustic platter with pickles, mustard, or potato chips for a German-inspired vibe.
- Garnish buns with a sprinkle of parsley or extra mustard drizzle for color.
- Pair with classic sides like German potato salad, coleslaw, or baked beans for a complete meal.
- Use a wooden board or paper-lined tray for a casual, pub-style look.
Serving Suggestions
Brats with Sauerkraut are versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:
- Game-Day Feast: Serve with beer, pretzels, and spicy mustard for a party spread.
- Family Dinner: Pair with mashed potatoes or a green salad for a hearty meal.
- Oktoberfest Party: Offer with sauerkraut, spaetzle, and apple strudel for a festive theme.
- Picnic or BBQ: Bring to gatherings with a side of macaroni salad or grilled veggies.
- With Extras: Add a slice of Swiss cheese, spicy mustard, or pickled red onions to the buns.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dish is great for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store brats and sauerkraut mixture separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep buns separate.
- Reheating: Reheat brats and sauerkraut in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Toast buns before assembling.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Sauerkraut Mix: Prep and mix sauerkraut, apples, bacon, and seasonings up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate.
- Brats: Cook brats and sauerkraut mixture up to 2 days ahead; refrigerate and reheat before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked brats and sauerkraut mixture (without buns) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge, reheat, and serve with fresh buns.
Tip: Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep buns fresh; store sauerkraut mixture separately for tanginess.
Recipe Variations
Brats with Sauerkraut are versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Milder Version: Reduce sauerkraut to 1 cup or rinse it twice for less tanginess.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns and ensure bacon and sauerkraut are gluten-free.
- Low-Sugar: Reduce brown sugar to 2 tablespoons or use a sugar substitute.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño to the sauerkraut mix.
- Beer-Braised: Add 1/2 cup beer to the slow cooker for extra flavor (cook as directed).
- Vegan Option: Use vegan sausages and omit bacon, adding 1 teaspoon liquid smoke.
- Grill Finish: After slow cooking, grill brats for 2-3 minutes for a charred flavor.
Tip: Keep the sauerkraut-apple base for the classic German-inspired taste.
Conclusion: Savor Your Brats with Sauerkraut!
You’ve just made Brats with Sauerkraut—a juicy, tangy, and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion! This slow-cooker recipe is easy, versatile, and so delicious it’ll become a go-to for gatherings, dinners, or festive events. Whether you pile on extra sauerkraut or enjoy it with mustard, these sandwiches are sure to impress. Grab a bun, bite into the savory goodness, and enjoy the bold flavors. What’s your favorite brat topping? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Brats with Sauerkraut
Description
Want a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for game days, family dinners, or backyard gatherings? Brats with Sauerkraut is the ultimate recipe! This slow-cooker meal combines juicy bratwurst with tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and savory bacon, all enhanced with brown sugar and mustard for a perfect balance of flavors. Served on soft brat buns, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish with bold German-inspired taste
Ingredients
- For the Brats and Sauerkraut:
- 8 uncooked bratwurst links
- 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut, rinsed and well drained
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped
- 3 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- For Assembly:
- 8 brat buns, split
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Bratwurst Links: Juicy, flavorful sausages that soak up the sauerkraut mixture.
- Sauerkraut: Adds tangy, fermented flavor and a crisp texture.
- Apples: Provide natural sweetness to balance the tartness.
- Bacon: Brings smoky, savory depth.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances sweetness and caramelizes the mixture.
- Onion: Adds savory, aromatic flavor.
- Ground Mustard: Offers a sharp, zesty kick.
- Brat Buns: Soft, sturdy buns that hold the juicy brats and topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Bratwurst: Swap with kielbasa, Italian sausage, or vegan sausages (adjust cooking time if pre-cooked).
- Sauerkraut: Use homemade sauerkraut or reduce to 1 cup for less tanginess.
- Apples: Replace with pears or 1/2 cup applesauce for similar sweetness.
- Bacon: Swap with turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit for vegetarian (add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for smokiness).
- Brown Sugar: Use maple syrup, honey, or reduce to 2 tablespoons for less sweetness.
- Onion: Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or 1/4 cup shallots.
- Ground Mustard: Replace with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds.
- Buns: Use hot dog buns, pretzel buns, or lettuce wraps for low-carb.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns and ensure sauerkraut and bacon are gluten-free.
- Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or 1 tablespoon diced jalapeños to the sauerkraut mix.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Rinse and drain 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut well to remove excess brine.
- Peel and finely chop 2 medium apples.
- Cook 3 bacon strips until crispy (microwave, stovetop, or oven), then crumble.
- Measure 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 1 teaspoon ground mustard.
- Gather 8 uncooked bratwurst links and 8 brat buns.
- Grease a 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Tip: Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to avoid a soggy mixture; chop apples finely for even blending.
Step 2: Layer the Slow Cooker
- Add Brats: Place 8 bratwurst links in the bottom of the greased 5-quart slow cooker.
- Make Sauerkraut Mixture: In a large bowl, combine drained sauerkraut, chopped apples, crumbled bacon, brown sugar, chopped onion, and ground mustard. Mix well.
- Top Brats: Spoon the sauerkraut mixture evenly over the bratwurst, covering them.
Tip: Arrange brats in a single layer if possible; spread sauerkraut mixture evenly to ensure all brats are flavored.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours, until a thermometer inserted into the bratwurst reads at least 160°F (71°C).
Tip: Check at 6 hours with a thermometer to avoid overcooking; don’t lift the lid often to maintain heat.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Prep Buns: Split 8 brat buns and toast lightly if desired (in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or on a skillet).
- Add Brats: Using tongs, place 1 bratwurst in each bun.
- Top with Sauerkraut: Using a slotted spoon, spoon the sauerkraut mixture over each brat, ensuring some apples and bacon are included.
- Serve: Serve immediately, with extra sauerkraut mixture on the side if desired.
Tip: Use a slotted spoon to avoid soggy buns; serve with napkins for juicy, messy bites.
FAQs
Q: Are Brats with Sauerkraut healthy?
A: Bratwurst is high in protein but also fat and sodium; sauerkraut adds fiber and probiotics. Use leaner sausages, reduce bacon to 1 strip, or serve with a side of veggies for a lighter option.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked brats?
A: Yes, reduce cooking time to 4-5 hours on Low to avoid overcooking.
Q: Why is my sauerkraut mixture watery?
A: Excess liquid from sauerkraut or apples can cause this. Rinse and drain sauerkraut well and pat apples dry.
Q: Can I cook this on High?
A: Yes, cook on High for 3-4 hours, but Low is better for tender brats and melded flavors.
Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes, omit bacon or use 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky flavor.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes! Freeze brats and sauerkraut mixture (without buns) for up to 2 months. Thaw, reheat, and serve with fresh buns.