Grilled Beef Brats Sauerkraut

The smell of bratwurst hitting a hot grill takes me back to late September evenings, football games playing from a staticky radio somewhere in the garage. My dad had this ritual where he would hover over the grill, beer in hand, insisting that you had to wait for the casing to snap just right. I have carried that tradition into my own backyard, turning ordinary Tuesdays into miniature celebrations.

Last summer, my neighbor leaned over the fence and asked what smelled so incredible. I ended up grilling extras, and we spent the next hour standing in his driveway, brats in hand, talking about everything and nothing. Sometimes the best meals happen when you are not planning a dinner party at all.

Ingredients

• 4 beef bratwursts: Beef brats have a richer, heartier flavor profile that stands up beautifully to grilling and pairs perfectly with the acidity of sauerkraut
• 4 sturdy brat buns or hot dog rolls: A sturdy bun is essential here because it needs to hold up against juicy sausages and toppings without falling apart
• 1 1/2 cups sauerkraut, drained: Well-drained sauerkraut adds the classic tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the meat
• 2 tbsp yellow or Dijon mustard: Mustard provides a sharp contrast that brightens every single bite
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced: Fresh onion adds a mild bite and crisp texture that complements the fermented kraut
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: A handful of fresh herbs makes the whole dish look and taste more vibrant
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil: Oil keeps the grates clean and helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks
• 4 slices Swiss cheese: Cheese is optional, but Swiss melts beautifully and adds a creamy, nutty element

Instructions

Preheat the grill:

Get your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates so nothing sticks during cooking

Grill the bratwursts:

Place the brats on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them every few minutes until they are evenly browned and reach an internal temperature of 160°F

Toast the buns:

During the last couple of minutes of grilling, place the buns cut side down on the grill until they are lightly toasted and warm

Warm the sauerkraut:

Heat the sauerkraut in a small pan over medium heat or in the microwave until it is warmed through

Assemble and serve:

Nestle each grilled bratwurst into a toasted bun and pile on the sauerkraut, mustard, onions, and parsley before serving immediately

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My kids used to turn their noses up at sauerkraut until I let them build their own brats with whatever toppings they wanted. Now they request these on repeat, and watching them discover new combinations has become its own kind of joy.

Serving Suggestions

A cold German potato salad with a vinegar-based dressing mirrors the tangy notes in the sauerkraut, while crispy fries add that satisfying crunch everyone craves at a cookout.

Make It Your Own

Spicy brown mustard or a dash of hot sauce brings welcome heat, and jalapeño slices can turn this into a completely different experience for anyone who loves bold flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Cooked bratwursts stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container, though the texture is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. Reheat gently to avoid drying them out.

• Keep sauerkraut separate until serving to prevent the buns from becoming soggy
• Wrap brats in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes
• A quick sear on a hot skillet can help restore some of the original grilled flavor

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There is something deeply satisfying about food that brings people together around a grill, no matter the occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should beef bratwursts be grilled?

Grill bratwursts for 12–15 minutes over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until evenly browned and cooked through.

→ What temperature ensures bratwursts are safely cooked?

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

→ Can I add cheese to the bratwurst?

Yes, Swiss cheese slices can be added during the last minutes of grilling to melt slightly over the brats.

→ How can I add extra flavor before grilling?

Simmering bratwursts in beer prior to grilling infuses additional depth and richness.

→ What are good side options to serve with grilled brats?

Serving with potato salad or crispy fries complements the savory and tangy flavors well.