Can I use pre-cooked bratwurst for this recipe?

I wouldn't recommend it. Uncooked bratwurst absorbs the flavors so much better during the slow cooking process and stays juicier. Pre-cooked brats tend to dry out and won't develop the same depth of flavor.

What's the best beer to use for beer brats?

Dark beers like stouts and porters work wonderfully because they add rich, malty notes. However, any beer you enjoy drinking will work! Just avoid extremely bitter IPAs which can sometimes become overpowering when reduced.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! If you don't have access to a grill, you can sear the brats in a cast-iron skillet or under the broiler. The goal is just to get some color and caramelization on the outside before slow cooking.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer everything in a covered Dutch oven on low heat for about 45-60 minutes. Just keep an eye on the liquid level and add more beer or broth if needed to prevent burning.

Slow Cooker Beer Brats Recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Beer Brats Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 h 10 min
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 brats; 2 medium onions, sliced; 4 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced into 8 pieces; 12 ounces dark beer; 10 hot dog buns

Description

This Slow Cooker Beer Brats recipe is a perfect blend of savory flavors, with juicy brats simmered in dark beer, caramelized onions, and a touch of brown sugar. It’s a simple yet crowd-pleasing meal idea, especially for game days or casual gatherings. The slow cooking process allows the brats and onions to absorb incredible flavor while staying perfectly tender.

Ingredients

Scale

10 brats
2 medium onions, sliced
4 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced into 8 pieces
12 ounces dark beer
10 hot dog buns

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Brats
Grill the brats over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, just until they develop a nice char and grill marks. You don’t need to cook them all the way through at this stage.
Layer the Onions and Sugar
Place half of the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar over the onions.
Add the Brats and Remaining Ingredients
Layer the grilled brats on top of the onion and brown sugar mixture in the slow cooker. Add the remaining onions and brown sugar over the brats. Then, place the slices of butter evenly over the top and pour in the dark beer.
Slow Cook the Brats
Set the slow cooker to low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process will infuse the brats with the delicious flavors of beer, butter, onions, and brown sugar.
Serve the Brats
Once done, serve the brats in hot dog buns. Top with the caramelized onions from the slow cooker and your favorite condiments. Enjoy them as a hearty meal or snack.

Notes

Use uncooked brats for best results, as they absorb the flavors better during the slow cooking process.
This recipe can easily be doubled. Use a larger slow cooker (8 quarts or more) or two slow cookers if needed.
Dark beer works best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite beer to suit your taste.
Serve these brats with a side of potato salad, coleslaw, or chips for a complete meal.
Feel free to top the brats with additional condiments like mustard, ketchup, or sauerkraut according to your preference.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 410kcal
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 40mg