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There’s something comforting about the inviting aroma of brats sizzling away in a slow cooker, filling my kitchen with memories of family gatherings and laughter. This Slow Cooker Brats and Sauerkraut recipe marries the savory goodness of bratwurst with the tangy zest of sauerkraut, uplifted by the sweetness of apples and brown sugar. It’s a dish that not only warms the belly but also the heart, perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.

Imagine hearty brats nestled in soft buns, topped with a tender and slightly sweet sauerkraut mix that gives every bite a delightful crunch. Whether you prefer plain, smoked, or cheese-flavored brats, this easy comfort food allows for delicious variations, making it ideal for every palate. Plus, you’d be surprised at just how effortless this dish is to whip up, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying delightful moments with those you love. Let’s dive into this savory recipe that promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Why Love Brats and Sauerkraut Recipe?

Simplicity at its best: With this slow cooker recipe, there’s hardly any fuss involved—just toss the ingredients together and let the flavors meld beautifully.

Savory richness: The combination of bratwurst, bacon, and sautéed apples creates a mouthwatering depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Versatility: You can easily customize this dish by choosing different bratwurst varieties or even adding a spicy kick, ensuring everyone at the table finds something they love.

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, this dish brings everyone together and is guaranteed to leave appetites satisfied.

Make-ahead: Prepare in advance and use leftovers for quick meals throughout the week—it’s as convenient as delicious! For more easy meal ideas, check out our easy comfort food collection.

Brats and Sauerkraut Ingredients

For the Brats
• Bratwurst Links – Choose plain, smoked, or cheese-flavored bratwurst to match your taste preference.
• Brat Buns – Lightly toast before serving for a delightful texture experience.

For the Sauerkraut Mixture
• Sauerkraut – Rinse and drain well to control saltiness and enhance flavors.
• Medium Apples – Peel and finely chop to incorporate sweetness that balances the tanginess of the sauerkraut.
• Bacon Strips – Cook until crispy, then crumble to add savory richness to the dish.
• Finely Chopped Onion – Use yellow or sweet onions for a milder aromatic touch.
• Ground Mustard – This adds a savory kick; substitute with Dijon mustard for a smooth flavor.
• Brown Sugar – It deepens the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor blend; consider maple syrup for a unique twist.

Note: This recipe for brats and sauerkraut is not only simple but also remarkably satisfying!

How to Make Brats and Sauerkraut

Prepare Ingredients: Begin by placing the bratwurst links in a 5-quart slow cooker. It’s best to choose juicy options like smoked or cheese-flavored for added richness.
Combine Mixture: In a mixing bowl, gently combine the sauerkraut, peeled and finely chopped apples, crumbled bacon, brown sugar, finely chopped onion, and ground mustard. Spoon this delightful mixture over the bratwurst, ensuring even coverage.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low, cooking for 6 to 8 hours. Your brats are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, ensuring they are perfectly tender and flavorful.
Serve: When ready, carefully place the bratwurst in toasted buns and generously top with the sauerkraut mixture using a slotted spoon for a delightful crunch with every bite.

Optional: Serve with a side of mustard or pickles to elevate the experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Brats and Sauerkraut

Ingredient Quality: Choose high-quality bratwurst for maximum flavor; seasoning can vary widely between brands, so explore different options.
Salt Control: Rinse and drain the sauerkraut well to avoid overwhelming the dish with saltiness, ensuring a balanced tangy flavor in your brats and sauerkraut.
Perfect Cooking: Always check the internal temperature of the bratwurst; they should reach 160°F for optimal safety and taste.
Add Sweetness: Don’t skip the apples and brown sugar; they enhance the dish’s complexity and round out the flavors beautifully.
Leftover Use: Embrace creativity with any leftovers; they can easily be repurposed into hearty wraps or mixed into salads for quick meals during the week.

Brats and Sauerkraut Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun twists and substitutions!

Cheese-Topped: Add shredded cheese on top of the brats during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy layer.
Sweet & Spicy: Mix in diced pineapple and sriracha to the sauerkraut for a vibrant sweet-heat experience. This twist beautifully contrasts the traditional flavors, creating a dynamic dish.
Apple Cider Braise: Substitute brown sugar with apple cider for a sweeter and more fragrant undertone, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausages instead of bratwurst and add lentils for protein. This variation keeps the flavor while aligning with dietary preferences.
Beer Infusion: Pour a bottle of your favorite beer over the bratwurst before cooking for a rich, malty flavor that perfectly complements the tangy sauerkraut.
Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture for a fragrant twist that elevates the overall taste profile.
Mustard Upgrade: Replace ground mustard with spicy brown mustard for an added kick that brightens up the dish with a peppery flavor.
Crispy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a delightful crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These Brats and Sauerkraut are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the sauerkraut mixture (sauerkraut, apples, bacon, onion, mustard, and brown sugar) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also saves you precious time when you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to enjoy your meal, place the bratwurst in the slow cooker, spoon the prepared mixture on top, and let it cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. By prepping in advance, you’ll ensure that dinner is just as delicious as if you made everything fresh!

What to Serve with Brats and Sauerkraut?

Bring your family and friends together around a cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor and warmth.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture provides a perfect contrast to the savory brats and crunchy sauerkraut. Each bite melts in your mouth!
German Potato Salad: With its tangy dressing and chunks of bacon, this dish mirrors the flavors in the brats, creating a delightful harmony of tastes.
Soft Pretzels: These warm, chewy bites are ideal for dunking in mustard beside your brats, adding a fun and interactive element to your meal.
Pickles: The crunch and acidity of pickles enhance the flavors of the savory dish while offering a refreshing bite to balance the richness.
Apple Cider: Serve this seasonal beverage cold or warm, and its sweetness will echo the apples in your brat mixture, complementing every hearty mouthful beautifully.
Sweet Cornbread: The slight sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread contrast wonderfully with the robust combination of the brats and sauerkraut, rounding out your meal.
Coleslaw: A refreshing, crisp side that adds crunch and a touch of acidity, helping to cleanse the palate and balance the meal’s richness.
Beer: Pair your brats with a cold lager or ale to enhance the experience! Their bitterness can cut through the richness and make each bite even more enjoyable.

How to Store and Freeze Brats and Sauerkraut

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain flavor and quality until you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your brats and sauerkraut mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to let them cool completely before freezing to preserve texture.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then heat in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Enjoy your brats and sauerkraut!
Airtight Wrapping: If you choose to store them in the freezer, double wrap with foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and retain their savory flavors.

Brats and Sauerkraut Recipe FAQs

What type of bratwurst should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this brats and sauerkraut recipe, you can choose from plain, smoked, or cheese-flavored bratwurst, depending on your taste preference. Smoked bratwurst adds a deep, rich flavor, while cheese-flavored ones bring a delightful creaminess. You might even combine different types for added diversity—I often do this for special gatherings!

How do I store leftover brats and sauerkraut?
Very simply! Once prepared, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down a bit before sealing it—this will help maintain its flavor and quality until you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Can I freeze brats and sauerkraut for later use?
Certainly! To freeze, first let your brats and sauerkraut mixture cool completely. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe container where it can be stored for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn and retain all the delicious flavors, I recommend wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil inside the container. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat as described.

What can I do if my sauerkraut is too salty?
If you find that your sauerkraut is too salty, don’t worry! Rinse it thoroughly under cold water before adding it into your mixture. You can also balance out the saltiness by adding a little more sugar or apples to the recipe, which will enhance the overall flavor. It’s a great way to customize your dish and avoid an overly salty experience!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the bratwurst with plant-based sausages for a vegan version. Just ensure they are cooked separately and added to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes for flavor absorption. Also, if you or your guests have allergies to pork or gluten, make sure to select gluten-free bratwurst and buns—there are many delicious options available now!

How can I tell when the bratwurst is fully cooked?
To ensure your bratwurst is fully cooked, you should always check for an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer for best results—insert it into the thickest part of the sausage. Once it reaches that temperature, you’ll know it’s perfectly tender and safe to eat!