How to Cook Brats on the Stove

Bratwursts, or brats for short, are a delicious and savory sausage popularly enjoyed worldwide. These sausages are particularly famous in Germany, where they originated, and have become a favorite in many other countries, including the United States. While there are numerous ways to cook brats, cooking them on the stove quickly and easily yields excellent results. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook brats on the stove.

Table of Contents

What is a Bratwurst?

Bratwurst is a type of sausage that originated in Germany and is now enjoyed worldwide. The sausage is made from ground pork, beef, veal, and spices such as salt, pepper, nutmeg, and caraway.

It is typically grilled, boiled, or pan-fried and is often served with mustard and sauerkraut. Bratwursts come in various sizes and flavors, with regional variations in Germany having their unique style.

They are a popular food item at festivals, fairs, and outdoor gatherings and a staple in German cuisine. Bratwursts have gained worldwide popularity due to their delicious taste and versatility and are now enjoyed in many countries around the globe.

Ingredients Required

Bratwurst sausages
1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable, canola, or olive oil)
1 onion, sliced (optional)
1 bottle of beer (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Buns, mustard, and sauerkraut for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Brats on the Stove

Step 1: Prepare the Brats

Remove the brats from their packaging and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps to ensure that they cook evenly. If you like, you can prick the sausages with a fork a few times to prevent them from bursting during cooking.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Add the oil to a large skillet or a frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions to the pan and cook them for a few minutes until they are translucent and golden brown. Skip this step if you are not using onions.

Step 3: Add the Brats

Once the onions are cooked, add the brats to the pan, ensuring they are in a single layer and not crowded. Cook the brats for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, flip them over and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side.

Step 4: Optional: Add Beer

Add beer to the pan to create a flavorful steam to cook the brats. Pour a beer bottle over the brats and onions, then cover the pan with a lid. Cook the brats for 10-15 minutes until they are fully cooked and the beer has evaporated.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To ensure the brats are cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The brats should have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before they are safe to eat. Alternatively, you can cut into one of the sausages to check if they are fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve

Once the brats are fully cooked, remove them from the pan and serve them on buns with your favorite condiments, such as mustard and sauerkraut. Enjoy!

Tips for Cooking Brats on the Stove

Use a large skillet or frying pan that is big enough to hold all the brats in a single layer.
Do not overcrowd the pan, resulting in uneven cooking and a longer cooking time.
Pricking the sausages with a fork before cooking can help prevent them from bursting.
Adding beer to the pan is optional but can help create a flavorful steam that infuses the brats with additional flavor.
Ensure the brats are fully cooked before serving to ensure they are safe to eat.

Why Cook Brats in Beer?

Cooking bratwurst in beer is a popular method that adds flavor and moisture to the sausage. The beer creates a flavorful steam that infuses the brats with a distinct taste and helps keep them moist during cooking. Beer can also help to tenderize the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

The beer’s sweetness and bitterness can complement the brats’ savory flavor, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Cooking brats in beer is a traditional method often used in German cuisine and is a popular way to cook bratwurst at outdoor gatherings, such as tailgate parties and backyard barbecues.

However, it’s important to note that cooking brats in beer is optional and can also be cooked without beer.

How to Serve Brats?

Bratwursts are a versatile and delicious food that can be served in many ways. Here are some popular ways to serve brats:

On a bun: Bratwursts are often served on a bun, similar to hot dogs. The bun can be toasted or grilled, and the brat can be topped with mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, relish, and onions.
With sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is a traditional German side dish made from fermented cabbage. It pairs well with brats and can be served either on top of the brat or on the side.
With grilled onions and peppers: Grilled onions and peppers add a delicious flavor to brats and are a great way to add some vegetables to your meal.
With potato salad: Potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs well with brats. It can be served either warm or cold.
With a side of fries or chips: Fries or chips are a simple and classic side dish that can be served with brats.
With a side of beer: Bratwursts are often served with beer, especially in German cuisine. A cold beer can help wash down the brats’ rich and savory flavors.

In conclusion, there are many ways to serve bratwursts, from the classic bun with condiments to more elaborate dishes like grilled onions, peppers, or potato salad. Whatever your preference, brats are a delicious and versatile food that is sure to please your taste buds.

Why should I cook Bratwurst on the Stove?

Cooking bratwurst on the stove is a convenient and easy to produce delicious and juicy sausages. Here are some reasons you might want to consider cooking brats on the stove:

No need for outdoor space: Cooking brats on the stove is a great option when you don’t have access to a grill or outdoor cooking space. This makes it a convenient option for those who live in apartments or who don’t have access to a backyard.
Quick and easy: Cooking brats on the stove is a quick and easy method that doesn’t require a lot of preparation time or clean up. In just a few minutes, you can prepare a delicious meal.
Even cooking: Cooking brats on the stove can result in even cooking and can help prevent them from drying out. You can easily monitor the cooking process and adjust the heat as needed.
Less mess: Cooking brats on the stove can result in less mess than grilling or boiling. Worrying about charcoal or ashes is unnecessary, and you can easily clean up the stovetop afterward.
Versatility: Cooking brats on the stove is a versatile method that allows you to add different flavors and ingredients to the pan. Add beer, onions, garlic, or other ingredients to the pan to create a unique and flavorful dish.

In conclusion, cooking bratwurst on the stove is a convenient, easy, and versatile method that can result in delicious and juicy sausages. It’s a great option when you don’t have access to a grill or outdoor space and can be a quick and easy meal solution for busy weeknights.

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How to cook bratwurst in the oven?

Cooking bratwurst in the oven is a simple and convenient method that can result in juicy and delicious sausages. Here are the steps to cook brats in the oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper. Clean-up will be easier and stick-free.
Place the bratwursts on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook the bratwursts for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats, which should reach 160°F.
If desired, add some beer or water to the baking sheet to help keep the brats moist during cooking. This is an optional step, but it can help to add flavor and moisture to the sausages.
Once the brats are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the bratwursts with your favorite toppings or sides, such as sauerkraut, mustard, or grilled onions and peppers.

In conclusion, cooking bratwurst in the oven is a simple and convenient method that can result in juicy and flavorful sausages. It’s a great option when you can’t access a grill or stove or want to cook multiple sausages simultaneously. Just be sure to check the internal temperature of the brats to ensure that they are fully cooked before serving.

How to Cook Brats on the Grill?

Grilling bratwursts is a popular method that can result in delicious and juicy sausages with a smoky flavor. Here are the steps to cook brats on the grill:

Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F).
Soak the bratwursts in beer or water for 30 minutes before grilling. This can help to add flavor and prevent the sausages from drying out.
Place the bratwursts on the grill, leaving a little space between each one. You can brush them with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the brats for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats, which should reach 160°F.
Add sliced onions or peppers to the grill to cook alongside the bratwursts.
Once the brats are fully cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the bratwursts on buns with your favorite toppings, such as mustard, sauerkraut, or grilled onions and peppers.

In conclusion, grilling bratwursts is a popular method that can result in juicy and flavorful sausages with a smoky flavor. It’s a great option when you want to cook outdoors and enjoy the summer weather. Just be sure to check the internal temperature of the brats to ensure that they are fully cooked before serving.

How to Cook Brats in Pressure Cooker?

Cooking bratwursts in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy method to produce tender and juicy sausages. Here are the steps to cook brats in a pressure cooker:

Add 1 cup of water or beer to the pressure cooker.
Place the bratwursts in the pressure cooker, fully submerging them in the liquid.
Close the pressure cooker lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
Cook the brats on high pressure for 8-10 minutes. The exact cooking time is different according to the size and thickness of the sausages.
Once the cooking time is complete, use the quick release method to release the pressure from the cooker.
Once the pressure has released, open the lid of the pressure cooker and remove the bratwursts.
If desired, you can brown the bratwursts in a pan or on the grill to give them a crispy exterior.
Serve the bratwursts with your favorite toppings or sides, such as sauerkraut, mustard, or grilled onions and peppers.

In conclusion, cooking bratwursts in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy method that can result in tender and juicy sausages. It’s a great option when you don’t have much time to cook or want to keep things simple. Just be sure to fully submerge the brats in liquid and use the quick release method to release the pressure from the cooker.

How to Cook Brats in an Air Fryer?

Cooking bratwursts in an air fryer is a quick and easy method to produce juicy and crispy sausages. Here are the steps to cook brats in an air fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
Place the bratwursts in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one.
Cook the brats for 10-12 minutes, turning them over halfway through the cooking time.
If desired, brush the bratwursts with oil or beer to add flavor and prevent them from drying out.
Once the bratwursts are fully cooked, remove them from the air fryer basket and rest for a few minutes.
Serve the bratwursts on buns with your favorite toppings, such as sauerkraut, mustard, or grilled onions and peppers.

It’s a great option when you want to cook indoors and don’t have access to a grill or stove. Just turn the brats over halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

How to Cook Brats in a Slow Cooker?

Cooking bratwursts in a slow cooker is a simple and convenient method that can result in tender and flavorful sausages. Here are the steps to cook brats in a slow cooker:

Place the bratwursts in the slow cooker.
Add sliced onions and peppers to the slow cooker, if desired.
Pour in enough liquid to cover the bratwursts. You can use beer, chicken broth, or water. Adding beer can help to add flavor to the sausages.
Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the brats for 4-6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, cook them on high heat for 2-3 hours.
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the bratwursts from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes.
If desired, you can brown the bratwursts in a pan or on the grill to give them a crispy exterior.
Serve the bratwursts with your favorite toppings or sides, such as sauerkraut, mustard, or grilled onions and peppers.

It’s a great option when you want to set it, forget it, and let the slow cooker do the work. Just fully submerge the bratwursts in liquid and add onions and peppers for extra flavor.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to cook brats on the stove?

It typically takes 15-20 minutes to cook bratwursts on the stove. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the sausages and the heat level of the stove. It’s important to cook the bratwursts until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How do you tell if a bratwurst is cooked?

To tell if a bratwurst is cooked, you can check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The bratwurst should reach an internal temperature of 160°F to be fully cooked. Additionally, a fully cooked bratwurst should be firm to the touch and no longer pink on the inside. The bratwurst may need more cooking time if it is still soft or pink.

Can I freeze the cooked brats on the stove?

Yes, you can freeze cooked bratwursts that were cooked on the stove. It’s best to let them cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat them, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the oven, microwave, or stove. It’s important to ensure they are fully reheated to 160°F before serving.

Can I cook frozen sausages on the stove?

You can cook frozen sausages on the stove, but it may take longer than cooking thawed sausages. It’s important to cook frozen sausages thoroughly to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F.

You may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature to prevent the sausages from burning outside while undercooked. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages before serving.

It’s also important to note that cooking frozen sausages can cause excess water or fat to be released, so you may want to cook them in a pan with sides to prevent spattering.

What happens if you undercook brats?

Undercooked bratwursts can cause foodborne illness if not cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F. Consuming undercooked brats can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Always cook bratwursts thoroughly and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature. If you’re unsure if the bratwursts are fully cooked, it’s best to err on caution and cook them a little longer.

Should you poke holes in bratwurst?

It is generally not recommended to poke holes in bratwursts before cooking them because it can cause the flavorful juices inside the sausage to escape, leading to a drier and less tasty final product.

It’s best to cook the bratwursts without puncturing them and turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. If the bratwursts start to split open during cooking, that’s okay, as long as they’re fully cooked and reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F.

Wrapping up

Cooking brats on the stove is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic sausage. To cook brats on the stove, boil them in a pan with oil or butter. Once browned, add beer or water to the pan and let the brats simmer until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

You can also add onions and other seasonings for extra flavor. Whether you’re cooking brats on the stove, oven, grill, or slow cooker, it’s important to cook them thoroughly to ensure they are safe to eat. Following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious and juicy brats from your kitchen.

How to Cook Brats on the Stove | 6 Easy Steps 2023