Beer brat sliders are a fun twist on traditional sliders! Juicy bratwurst cooked in beer are nestled in soft slider buns, making them super tasty and easy to share.
These little guys are perfect for parties or game day. I love piling on the toppings, like mustard and onions, for extra flavor. Just don’t blame me if you end up eating too many! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst Sausages: These are the stars of the show! If you can’t find bratwurst, Italian sausage works well too. Just make sure to check the spice level if you have a preference.
Beer: I recommend using a lager or pilsner for a nice light flavor. If you want a less hoppy taste, you can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth instead. It still adds moisture without the beer flavor!
Slider Buns: Brioche buns are perfectly soft and slightly sweet, but any soft roll will do. For a healthier option, try whole grain or gluten-free buns.
ChedDAR Cheese: Sharp cheddar is great for its rich flavor, but feel free to swap in Swiss, gouda, or even pepper jack if you like a kick.
Sauerkraut: This adds a lovely tang! If you’re not a fan, try coleslaw for a crunch instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Brats are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy brats is in the simmering step. Cooking the bratwurst in beer infuses flavor and keeps them moist. Remember to cook them gently; no need to rush this step.
- Simmer in beer for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
- After simmering, brown them in butter for that crispy outside.
Don’t skip the browning—it’s what gives that delightful texture and flavor contrast!
Beer Brat Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 6 bratwurst sausages (about 3/4 lb)
- 1 cup beer (lager or pilsner preferred)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 6 slider buns, preferably brioche or soft rolls
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
- Yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard (for serving)
- Optional: thinly sliced onions or caramelized onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare, including simmering and browning the bratwurst, toasting the buns, and assembling the sliders. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a lovely meal or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Simmer the Brats:
In a medium skillet or saucepan, combine the bratwurst and beer. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let the brats cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked all the way through. This will help keep them juicy and flavorful!
2. Brown the Brats:
Once cooked, carefully remove the brats from the beer (you can reserve the beer for future cooking). In the same skillet, add butter and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst back in and brown them on all sides for about 3-4 minutes. This step gives them a delicious crisp texture!
3. Prepare the Buns:
Slice the slider buns in half and lightly toast them in the same skillet or oven until they turn a golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch and keeps them from getting soggy!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Place each browned brat on the bottom half of a bun. Top with a slice of cheddar cheese, followed by a spoonful of sauerkraut. Feel free to add the optional onions if you like!
5. Melt Cheese (Optional):
If you want that gooey melted cheese effect, pop the assembled sliders under a broiler or in a warm oven for about 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt.
6. Add Condiments and Serve:
Spread your favorite mustard on the top bun and place it over the sliders. Serve them immediately and enjoy your delicious beer brat sliders with friends and family!
These sliders pack all the delicious flavors of traditional beer brats into a party-friendly size! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Sausages for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is traditional, you can use Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based options for a vegetarian version. Just ensure they are fully cooked before assembling the sliders!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
To keep your sliders fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them gently in the microwave or in the oven to maintain their texture.
Can I Make the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the bratwurst and sauce ahead of time! Cook the bratwurst and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the sliders and broil them for a couple of minutes for best results!
What Toppings Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! Besides mustard and sauerkraut, you can add diced pickles, jalapeños, or caramelized onions for added flavor. Experiment with toppings to find your favorite combo!
