Beer Brat Sliders are delicious little sandwiches filled with tasty bratwurst soaked in beer. They’re perfect for a game day or any fun get-together!
These sliders are super easy to make! I love piling on the toppings like mustard and onions for an extra kick. Your friends will be coming back for seconds, trust me! 🍻
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst: The star of the show! Traditional bratwurst works best, but you can swap for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or even plant-based sausages if you prefer a vegetarian twist.
Beer: While a lager or ale is recommended for rich flavor, you can replace it with chicken broth or non-alcoholic beer if you want to skip the alcohol.
Onion: A small onion adds a nice sweetness. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use shallots or skip it altogether. You could also use scallions for a milder flavor.
Slider Buns: Soft slider buns are ideal, but you could use regular dinner rolls, or even pretzel buns for a fun twist. Just make sure they can hold the filling!
Sauerkraut: If sauerkraut isn’t your thing, try coleslaw or pickled cucumbers for crunch and tanginess. Adjust to your palate!
How Do You Get the Sausage Just Right?
Cooking the bratwurst correctly ensures juicy bites packed with flavor. Start by crumbling the sausage in the pan — this allows for even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet to medium heat. Add the sausage meat and brown it well.
- Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even pieces.
- Add the chopped onion halfway through. Cook until golden and soft, enhancing that savory taste.
Don’t rush the simmering step with the beer; this melds all those delicious flavors together, creating a fantastic filling for your sliders! Enjoy the process!
How to Make Beer Brat Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 1 package (4-5) bratwurst sausages, casings removed
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for toasting buns)
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons Dijon or spicy brown mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pickles or additional barbecue sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes on prep (cooking the sausage and veggies), and around 10 minutes for toasting and assembling the sliders. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausage
In a medium bowl, start by crumbling the bratwurst sausages into small pieces. This helps them cook faster and evenly.
2. Cook the Sausage and Onions
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, usually around 7-10 minutes. Don’t forget to break the meat into bite-sized pieces as you go!
Now, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. This adds a wonderful flavor to the mix.
3. Add the Beer
Pour in 1 cup of beer and let it simmer. You’ll want to cook it for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together while some of the beer reduces. This is where the magic happens!
4. Toast the Buns
While the sausage mixture is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half, brush the insides with melted butter, and toast them on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and delicious.
5. Assemble the Sliders
Once the buns are done, take them out of the oven. Spread a thin layer of mustard on each bottom bun. This adds a nice kick to each bite!
Next, evenly distribute the brat and onion mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Don’t be shy; make sure each slider has a hearty portion!
Top each with a generous scoop of sauerkraut followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Finish and Serve
Finally, cover with the top half of the buns. If you like, you can pop them back into the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes just to melt the cheese a bit more and warm up the sliders. Serve them hot with pickles or extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Beer Brat Sliders!
These sliders combine savory bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese all packed in soft toasted buns, making them a perfect appetizer for any occasion! 🍻
Can I Use Different Sausage Types for These Sliders?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is traditional, you can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even use plant-based sausages for a delicious vegetarian version.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.
Can I Make These Sliders in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and onion mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just heat it up, toast the buns, and assemble the sliders for a quick meal!
What Are Some Good Toppings for Beer Brat Sliders?
In addition to sauerkraut and cheese, you can add toppings like diced pickles, jalapeños for some heat, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a sweet twist. Get creative based on your taste!
