Description
Learn how to make perfectly juicy bratwursts on the stovetop, an easy method that delivers restaurant-quality sausages with a golden-brown sear and flavor-packed bite. This quick guide covers simmering brats in a savory liquid before pan-searing them to perfection, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Brats
- 4 bratwurst sausages, uncooked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
For the Simmering Liquid
- 1 cup beer (or use chicken broth for an alcohol-free option)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
Optional for Serving
- 4 buns, split
- Mustard, to taste
- Sauerkraut, optional
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Aromatics: Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, followed by the sliced onion and smashed garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Brats and Simmer: Nestle the bratwursts among the onions and garlic. Pour in the beer (or chicken broth) until the brats are partially submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning once, until brats are nearly cooked through (internal temp about 150°F/65°C).
- Brown the Brats: Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high. Let any leftover liquid evaporate, then continue to cook the brats, turning occasionally, for 4–5 minutes until the casing is deeply golden-brown and crisp all over.
- Serve: Serve the brats on fresh buns with your favorite toppings such as mustard and sauerkraut, sprinkling with parsley if desired. Enjoy hot!
Notes
- Use a good-quality German-style bratwurst for the best flavor.
- If you don’t want to use beer, chicken or vegetable broth works just as well.
- Be patient while browning—the deeper the sear, the better the flavor and “snap.”
- For extra flavor, simmer onions and garlic until caramelized before adding the liquid.
- You can double the recipe easily to feed a crowd.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bratwurst with bun and toppings
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
