Description
A stress-free, festive slow cooker recipe featuring plump bratwursts simmered with caramelized onions, tangy sauerkraut, and beer for a rich, flavorful meal perfect for parties or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork bratwursts (fresh or raw)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 large jars sauerkraut (about 32oz or 900g total), drained and squeezed dry
- 1 bottle (12oz or 355ml) lager or pilsner beer
- 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 tablespoons whole grain or Dijon mustard
- 2 large bay leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large Granny Smith apple, sliced thin (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and thinly slice the onions. If using apples, slice them thinly as well.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft, golden, and sweet. Set aside.
- Drain the sauerkraut in a colander. Rinse under cold water if a milder taste is preferred. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or hands.
- Place bratwursts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the drained sauerkraut over the brats. Sprinkle caraway seeds, minced garlic, and brown sugar over the top. Add sliced apples if using.
- Pour in the beer and chicken broth. Add bay leaves and mustard. Toss gently to combine. Mix in the caramelized onions.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until brats are heated through and tender.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Serve brats in warm buns, topped generously with the onion-sauerkraut mixture. Add mustard on the side if desired.
Notes
Squeeze the sauerkraut dry to prevent a watery dish. Sautéing the onions adds significant flavor depth but is optional. Do not prick the brats before cooking to keep them juicy. This recipe does not freeze well as the sauerkraut may become mushy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brat with 1/2 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 22
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 18
Keywords: Oktoberfest, slow cooker bratwurst, sauerkraut recipe, German beer brats, fall dinner, party food, crockpot recipes, caramelized onions