Description
A simple, foolproof 3-ingredient autumn dinner featuring seared bratwurst simmered with tangy sauerkraut and beer. This comfort food takes only 20 minutes to prepare and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs fresh pork bratwurst
- 16 oz jar plain sauerkraut (drained)
- 1 cup German lager or pilsner (or chicken broth/water)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard for serving
- Soft pretzel buns or rolls for serving
- Yellow mustard for serving
- 1 tbsp oil (optional, for searing)
Instructions
- Open the jar of sauerkraut and drain excess liquid, reserving about 2 tablespoons of brine if desired.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if using.
- Place bratwursts in the pan in a single layer, ensuring space between them. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the beer (or broth) and add the sauerkraut around the brats.
- Cover the pan with a lid and simmer gently for 10 minutes until brats are cooked through (internal temp 160°F) and kraut is tender.
- Remove lid and simmer uncovered for 2 minutes if there is excess liquid.
- Serve immediately on pretzel buns with mustard.
Notes
Do not pierce the sausages as this causes them to dry out. If using pre-cooked brats, skip the initial sear and just heat through. For a spicy version, add diced jalapeño to the kraut. Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 brats with 1 cup s
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 38
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 28
Keywords: Oktoberfest, bratwurst, sauerkraut, easy dinner, autumn recipes, 3-ingredient meal, comfort food, German cuisine, quick dinner