brats in a crock pot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
brats in a crock pot recipe
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The Best brats in a crock pot recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Brats in a Crock Pot! This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family, this recipe always hits the spot.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Just throw the ingredients in a crock pot, and let the slow cooker do the work. No fuss, no muss – just pure comfort food goodness.

As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is so versatile. We can make it on the go, and still have time to enjoy quality time together as a family. The kids love helping me prep the ingredients, and they always get excited when they see the finished product come out of the crock pot. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love bratwurst?

It’s one of those classic flavors that never goes out of style. But what really sets this recipe apart is the way it makes our home feel cozy and inviting. There’s something about the smell of slow-cooked meat that just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. And when we gather around the table to share this meal together, it’s like we’re all saying ‘this is what home feels like.’

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it showcases the beauty of slow cooking. It’s not just about throwing some ingredients in a pot and waiting for them to cook – it’s about taking the time to let those flavors meld together, to let the meat become tender and fall-apart delicious. It’s almost like magic, but without any fancy tricks or gadgets needed. This Brats in a Crock Pot recipe is more than just a meal – it’s an experience.

It’s about creating memories with our loved ones, about sharing moments of joy and connection over good food and good company.

Crock Pot Brats

Crock Pot Brats

4.9 from 1028 votes

Tender and flavorful bratwurst simmered in a savory beer and onion mixture. This easy slow cooker recipe delivers juicy brats perfect for serving on buns with your favorite toppings.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 10 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brats

6 uncooked bratwurst links
1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings
2 (12 oz) bottles of lager beer
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
6 hoagie or brat buns
Optional toppings: sauerkraut, spicy brown mustard, pickled jalapenos

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2Add the bratwurst links and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they are browned all over.
3This step adds color and flavor, and you should see a deep golden brown crust form.
4Place the sliced onion rings in the bottom of the slow cooker.
5Arrange the browned bratwurst links on top of the onions in a single layer.
6In a medium bowl, whisk together the beer, chicken broth, butter, brown sugar, caraway seeds, and black pepper until the butter is mostly melted.
7Pour this mixture over the brats and onions in the slow cooker.
8Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours.
9The brats are done when they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F, and the onions are very soft and translucent.
10Remove the brats from the slow cooker with tongs and place them on a cutting board.
11Lightly toast the hoagie buns under a broiler or in a toaster, then serve each brat on a bun with the cooked onions and any optional toppings you desire.

🔧Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Large skillet
Tongs
Cutting board
Chef’s knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the beer with an equal amount of beef broth. To make the brats extra tender, let them rest in the cooking liquid for 10 minutes after cooking before serving.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Brats Works

This Brats in a Crock Pot recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family. The best part?

It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve, and enjoy every bite of that tender bratwurst goodness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Brats

Q: What kind of brats should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of bratwurst you like – traditional pork, chicken, or even vegetarian options work great in this recipe.

Q: Can I make this recipe on high heat?

No, it’s best to cook on low heat for at least 6-8 hours to get that tender texture we all know and love.

Q: Can I add potatoes or other vegetables to this recipe?

Sure thing! Just add your favorite veggies to the crock pot along with the brats for a hearty and filling meal.

Q: How long does this recipe keep in the fridge?

This recipe will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days – just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe freezes beautifully – just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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