These Beer Brat Sliders are perfect for a fun get-together! Juicy bratwurst soaked in beer, served on soft buns, create a tasty treat everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Honestly, these sliders are my go-to for casual hangouts. Pair them with some crispy fries, and you’re set for a great time with friends. Cheers to good food! 🍻
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst: Bratwurst is key for flavor here. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Italian sausage or turkey sausage for lower fat options. Vegetarian brats are also a great substitute if you’d like a meatless version.
Beer: A lager or ale enhances the flavor of the brats. If you’re avoiding alcohol, use non-alcoholic beer or even an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth for a tasty twist.
Slider Buns: Brioche buns add a nice sweetness, but you can use any soft rolls. Potato buns or whole wheat sliders are excellent alternatives for added nutrition or flavor.
Onions: I love using yellow onions, but red onions add a nice color and a bit of sweetness. If you prefer milder flavors, green onions work well too!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Brat Patties?
Cooking the brat patties just right ensures a juicy and tasty slider. Here’s the process:
- After poaching in beer, let the bratwurst cool before chopping. This helps maintain moisture.
- Form evenly sized patties that match the buns. Keeping them the same size helps them cook evenly.
- Cook the patties in a preheated skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. This creates a nice crust.
- Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, checking that they are browned but not burnt. Use a spatula to gently flip them.
With these tips, you’ll create deliciously juicy brat patties every time!
How to Make Beer Brat Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 4 bratwurst sausages (about 1 lb)
- 12 oz beer (lager or ale)
- 8 slider buns (soft brioche buns preferred)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (divided)
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or beer mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sauerkraut or grainy mustard for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes cooking the bratwurst, around 5-10 minutes preparing the patties and cooking them, and another 5-10 minutes for prepping and toasting the slider buns. Add a little more time if you want to prepare any sides!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Poach the Bratwurst:
In a medium saucepan, add bratwurst sausages and pour in the beer until they’re covered. Toss in half of the chopped onions. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the brats poach for about 10-12 minutes until they are cooked through and juicy.
2. Cool and Chop the Bratwurst:
Once they’re cooked, carefully remove the bratwursts from the beer and set them aside to cool for a few minutes. Discard the leftover beer and onions or reserve them for another dish. Now that they’re slightly cool, chop the bratwurst into small pieces.
3. Make the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped bratwurst with a pinch of salt, pepper, and some reserved cooked onions (if you’d like). Mix everything together thoroughly. Shape this mixture into 8 small patties that match the size of your slider buns.
4. Cook the Patties:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, adding a little oil or butter to prevent sticking. Cook each brat patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re browned and heated through.
5. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, slice the slider buns. Brush the cut sides lightly with melted butter and toast them in a skillet or the oven until they are golden and crispy.
6. Assemble the Sliders:
To put it all together, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bottom half of each bun. Place a dill pickle slice on top, then add one brat patty onto each. Finish with a spoonful of chopped raw onion for a bit of crunch, and add the top bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm Beer Brat Sliders with your favorite sides like fries or coleslaw. You can also add sauerkraut or extra mustard on top to really kick up the flavor!
Enjoy these juicy, flavorful Beer Brat Sliders perfect for beer lovers and casual meals!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! If you want a different flavor, try using Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausages. Just make sure they are of similar size for even cooking.
Can I Prepare These Sliders in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the brat patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat them in a skillet and assemble the sliders as directed.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or skillet—add a splash of moisture if they seem dry!
What Are Some Great Side Dishes to Serve with Beer Brat Sliders?
Some delicious side options include crispy fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad. They pair well with any of these for a complete meal!
