Grilled Beef Brats Sauerkraut

The first time I made these for a summer gathering, my neighbor actually asked for the recipe and seemed shocked when I told him how simple it was. There is something magical about the smell of brats hitting a hot grill that makes everyone drift toward the backyard.

I learned that toasting the buns directly on the grill makes such a difference that one bite will convince you it is worth the extra two minutes. My dad still talks about the time I forgot the sauerkraut and he acted like the whole meal was incomplete.

Ingredients

• 4 beef bratwursts: Quality matters here since the beef flavor really shines through the grilling process
• 4 sturdy brat buns: These need to hold up to the juices and toppings without falling apart
• 1 1/2 cups sauerkraut: Drained well so it does not make the buns soggy
• 2 tbsp mustard: Yellow or Dijon depending on your preference for heat
• 1/2 small red onion: Thinly sliced for a nice crunch and pop of color
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley: Adds brightness and makes everything look finished
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil: Keeps the brats from sticking to the grates
• 4 slices Swiss cheese: Optional but creates such a creamy contrast

Instructions

Get the grill ready:

Preheat to medium-high and lightly oil the grates so nothing sticks during cooking

Grill the brats:

Cook for 12 to 15 minutes turning often until browned all over and they reach 160°F inside

Add the final touches:

Toast the buns for the last two minutes and melt cheese on the brats if you are using it

Warm the sauerkraut:

Heat it in a small pan or microwave until steaming hot throughout

Build your brats:

Place each sausage in a toasted bun and pile on sauerkraut mustard onions and parsley

Serve them up:

Get these to the table immediately while everything is still hot and the cheese is gooey

Save

These became a regular at our Sunday cookouts after my brother-in-law declared them better than anything from the local brat stand. Now they are the first thing everyone asks about when we invite people over.

Making Ahead

You can warm the sauerkraut ahead of time and keep it hot in a covered dish. Slice the onions and mix up any mustard spreads in advance so assembly goes quickly at grill time.

Serving Suggestions

German potato salad or crispy fries on the side make this feel like a complete meal. A cold beer or tart lemonade cuts through the richness perfectly.

Leftover Love

Leftover brats reheat beautifully in a skillet with a little butter or can be chopped into breakfast hash the next morning.

• Wrap leftover brats individually in foil before reheating
• The sauerkraut actually develops more flavor overnight
• Consider turning leftovers into bratwurst and kraut soup

Save

Grab some napkins and enjoy the moment because these are meant to be eaten outside with people you love.

Recipe FAQ

→ What grilling temperature is best for beef bratwursts?

Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling beef bratwursts, ensuring they cook evenly and retain juiciness while achieving a nice browned exterior.

→ Can I add cheese to the brats during grilling?

Yes, adding Swiss cheese slices during the last few minutes of grilling allows them to melt slightly, adding creamy richness without overpowering the flavor.

→ How should sauerkraut be prepared before serving?

Warm the sauerkraut gently in a pan over medium heat or microwave until heated through, which helps meld its tanginess with the other textures.

→ Are there seasoning tips to enhance flavor?

Simmering the bratwursts in beer before grilling or topping with spicy mustard and jalapeños can add extra depth and a spicy kick.

→ What sides complement this grilled brat dish?

Classic sides like potato salad or crispy fries pair well, balancing the hearty and tangy flavors of the grilled brats and sauerkraut.