Oven-Braised Beer Brats with Caramelized Onions & Apples

Oven-Braised Beer Brats with Caramelized Onions & Apples 🍺🍏🌭

Juicy bratwurst simmered in beer with sweet caramelized onions, tangy apples, and savory herbs—hands-off comfort food with a German twist!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 6 uncooked bratwurst sausages (pork or chicken)
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 crisp apples (e.g., Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (12 oz) bottle lager beer (or chicken broth)
• 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• ½ tsp caraway seeds (optional, for authenticity)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

For Serving: Crusty bread, pretzel rolls, or mashed potatoes

Instructions

1. Sear the Brats

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter/oil over medium-high. Sear brats until browned on all sides (~2 mins per side). Remove and set aside.

2. Caramelize Onions & Apples

3. In the same skillet, add onions. Cook over medium-low heat for 10 mins, stirring occasionally, until golden.
4. Add apples, garlic, brown sugar, thyme, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook 5 mins until apples soften.

3. Braise in Beer

5. Pour in beer and mustard, scraping up browned bits. Nestle brats into the onion-apple mixture.
6. Bring to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 25-30 mins until brats reach 160°F (71°C).

4. Serve

7. Garnish with parsley. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce!

💡 Pro Tips:

• Beer choice: A malty lager or ale works best (avoid IPAs—too bitter).
• Extra depth? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end.
• Make ahead: Flavors deepen if refrigerated overnight. Reheat gently.

Sweet, savory, and perfect for Oktoberfest or game day! 🍻

Love spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or serve with spicy mustard. 🔥