How to Prepare Bratwurst

A two-step cooking process brings out the full flavor of bratwurst sausages.

Juicy bratwurst develops most of its flavor when cooked over a grill. These German sausages are traditionally precooked in beer before grilling. Beer seasons the bratwurst, while precooking ensures the meat is cooked through and safe to eat. Grilling results in brats that are browned and delicious. You can skip the beer, if desired, but the two-step preparation method gives the sausages a rich flavor.

Things You'll Need

• Skillet
• Beer or water
• Tongs
• Grill

Instructions

1. Place the bratwurst in a large skillet, arranging them in a single layer. Add enough beer or water to cover the brats.

2. Heat the beer or water over medium until it begins to simmer. Simmer the bratwursts for 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid a full boil, as it will crack the bratwurst casings.

3. Remove the brats from the beer or water. Use a pair of tongs so you don't break the casings.

4. Grill the bratwurst on a gas or charcoal grill for 7 to 10 minutes, turning once, or until the bratwurst is evenly browned on all sides. Alternatively, brown them in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat.

Tips & Warnings

• Store uncooked bratwurst for up to two days in the refrigerator. Store cooked brats for up to a week. Precooked brats in original packaging store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

• Bratwurst may also come precooked. Precooked bratwurst doesn't require boiling before serving, but should be browned so the sausage is tender and juicy.

• A properly cooked bratwurst snaps when you bite into it. Overcooking over tenderizes the casing so the sausage doesn't snap.

References

• USDA: Sausages and Food Safety