Slow Cooker Beer Bratwurst with Onions & Peppers
Introduction
Slow Cooker Beer Bratwurst with Onions & Peppers is a classic comfort food that combines juicy bratwursts with sweet bell peppers, caramelized onions, and a rich beer-infused broth. This easy, hands-off recipe allows you to cook the brats to perfection in a slow cooker, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 6–8 bratwurst sausages
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz (1 can or bottle) beer (lager or ale works best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 4–6 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Slice onions and bell peppers. Mince garlic.
- Sear the bratwursts (optional but recommended): Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the bratwurst on all sides for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Layer in slow cooker: Place sliced onions and peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seared bratwursts on top. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme over the top.
- Add beer: Pour beer over the bratwursts and vegetables.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until bratwursts are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Serve bratwursts on buns with onions and peppers spooned over the top. Optionally, add mustard or sauerkraut.
Description
The brats are juicy and flavorful from the slow cooking in beer, while the onions and peppers soften and caramelize to a sweet, savory finish. This dish captures the essence of classic German-style bratwurst without the need for a grill. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is irresistible, making it a favorite for families and friends.
Tips
- Beer choice: Use a lager or pale ale for a balanced flavor. Avoid overly bitter IPAs.
- Vegetable variation: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Make-ahead: You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just start the slow cooker.
- Buns: Toasting the buns lightly in a skillet or oven adds a nice crunch.
- Optional toppings: Mustard, sauerkraut, pickles, or shredded cheese work great.
Correction
- Ensure bratwursts are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for pork or 165°F (74°C) for poultry varieties.
- Avoid overfilling the slow cooker; the liquid should just cover the sausages and vegetables for best results.
Enjoy!
Savor your Slow Cooker Beer Bratwurst with Onions & Peppers with your favorite bun, mustard, or sauerkraut. Perfect for a cozy dinner or casual gathering—this hearty dish brings comfort and flavor in every bite.
