🌭 Grilled Beer Brats Recipe

Juicy, flavorful, and bursting with beer-infused goodness, grilled beer brats are a backyard BBQ classic. Simmered in beer and onions before hitting the grill, these bratwursts are perfect for game day, tailgates, or any summer cookout.

🕒 Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Simmer Time: 20 minutes

• Grill Time: 10–12 minutes

• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

• Servings: 5–6

🛒 Ingredients

For the Brats:

• 5–6 fresh bratwurst sausages

• 1 large yellow onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)

• 3–4 cans (12 oz each) of lager or German-style beer

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for caramelization)

For Serving:

• 5–6 brat or hoagie buns

• Yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard

• Sauerkraut, grilled onions, or pickled jalapeños (optional)

🔥 Instructions

Step 1: Simmer the Brats in Beer

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, add sliced onions, garlic, beer, butter, and brown sugar.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. Add brats to the pot and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through.

4. Remove from heat and let brats rest in the liquid until ready to grill.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

2. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Brats

1. Remove brats from the beer bath and place directly on the grill.

2. Grill for 4–6 minutes per side, turning occasionally until they are nicely browned and have grill marks.

3. Optional: Grill the buns for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.

Step 4: Serve

1. Place each brat in a bun.

2. Top with mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions, or your favorite toppings.

3. Serve hot with a cold beer on the side!

✅ Tips & Variations

• Use quality beer: A German lager, pilsner, or amber ale gives great flavor.

• Don't boil too hard: Keep the simmer gentle to avoid bursting the brats.

• Make-ahead tip: Simmer the brats early, refrigerate them in the beer bath, and grill when ready.

• Flavor boost: Add mustard seeds or a splash of Worcestershire to the simmering liquid.