Here is how to make delicious slow cooker bratwurst that is full of fall flavor, including tips on how to make slow cooker bratwurst with apples and slow cooker bratwurst without beer.

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Looking for a savory and easy dinner recipe that is also a perfect fall tailgating food? This post is all about how to make slow cooker bratwurst.

There’s something magical about fall gatherings, like game days, family game nights, movie nights, and potlucks with family and friends. The energy, the excitement, and, of course, the food—it just can’t be matched.

For many, nothing says game day quite like a big batch of brats—juicy, flavorful, and practically made to be devoured while cheering on your team. Here is how to make delicious slow cooker bratwurst that is perfect for casual fall parties and occasions.

These brats are a total game changer when it comes to fall comfort food. Start by grilling the bratwurst to seal in flavor and get a perfect char, and then let them soak up all the goodness in a slow cooker with beer, onions, garlic, and a secret mustard honey sauce that’s going to make your taste buds dance.

The best part? You get all that flavor without spending hours stuck in the kitchen—your slow cooker does the heavy lifting while you get to enjoy every minute of the game with your friends and family.

Whether you’re tailgating in the backyard or throwing a party in the living room, these brats are guaranteed to be the MVP of your spread. But you can enjoy slow cooker bratwurst beyond football season—slow cooker brats are also great for family game nights, potluck gatherings, movie nights, and other cozy fall occasions.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill pan (or a cast iron skillet), and get ready to serve up the tastiest, juiciest bratwurst your friends have ever had.

What is Slow Cooker Bratwurst?

Slow cooker bratwurst is one of the best go to comfort foods—juicy bratwurst sausages simmered in a slow cooker with beer (or chicken broth or apple cider), onions, garlic, and any other delicious flavors you throw in, like Dijon mustard or sauerkraut.

The slow cooker keeps the bratwurst tender and full of flavor, while also making things super easy since—after searing the bratwurst to lock in the flavor—you can simmer the ingredients all in one place.

Slow cooker bratwurst perfect for fall because it’s hearty, warm, and satisfying—just what you want on a chilly day when you’re craving something cozy.

Plus, it’s ideal for parties and game days because it’s a low maintenance recipe that feeds a crowd. It’s a total win for spending more time with friends and family and less time stuck in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Bratwurst Recipe

Here’s a few reasons to love slow cooker bratwurst.

• Slow cooker bratwurst is easy to make. Making slow cooker bratwurst is super easy—all you need is just a few minutes of prep, and the slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy the game or hang out with friends.
• It’s perfect for feeding a crowd. It makes plenty to feed a hungry group, and everyone can serve themselves whenever they’re ready.
• It’s packed with flavor. The bratwurst soaks up all the delicious flavors from the beer, onions, garlic, and whatever extras you add, making every bite juicy and tasty.
• Slow cooker bratwurst is versatile. You can customize slow cooker bratwurst with your favorite ingredients like sauerkraut, apples, or different spices, so it never gets boring. Also, you can substitute beer with other tasty alternatives, like chicken broth or apple cider.
• It gives comfort food vibes. Slow cooker bratwurst is cozy, hearty, and perfect for those chilly fall days when you want something warm and satisfying to eat.

What’s not to love? A slow cooker bratwurst recipe is a total game changer when it comes to the best fall recipes for a crowd!

When Should I Cook the Bratwurst for a Party?

If you’re making slow cooker bratwurst for a football party, then you may wonder when you should start the bratwurst so it’s ready for kickoff time or soon after. To help ensure that the bratwurst is perfectly cooked and ready to serve right when the game starts, here are some tips on when you should put them in the slow cooker:

• If you’re cooking on a low heat setting (4 to 5 hours): Put the brats in the slow cooker about 5 hours before the game starts. This will give you enough time to cook them through and keep them warm until game time.
• If you’re cooking on a high heat setting (2 to 3 hours): Put the brats in the slow cooker about 3 hours before the game starts. This will allow enough time for them to cook and be perfectly tender without overcooking.

By following these times, you should have your brats hot, juicy, and ready just as everyone is settling in for kickoff!

How Can the Bratwurst Be Served at a Party or on Game Day?

When it’s time to serve the slow cooker brats, keep things casual and easy going—just like game day should be! You can set up a self serve station right next to the slow cooker so everyone can help themselves when it’s time to eat.

Have a stack of soft, toasted bratwurst buns or hoagie rolls at the ready. There’s something about that warm, slightly crispy bread that just makes the brats even more irresistible.

For toppings, go all out. Set out bowls of sliced onions, sauerkraut, and some grilled peppers for anyone who wants to pile on the extras. Serve a variety of mustard—like classic yellow, spicy brown, and honey mustard—and a little Dijon for those who like that extra zing.

Add a jar of pickles, some relish, and maybe a few pickled sliced jalapeños for the brave souls who like a kick to round things out. And, of course, ketchup and mayo for those who like to keep things classic.

Slow Cooker Bratwurst Ingredients

Here are the ingredients that are needed to make delicious slow cooker bratwurst.

• Bratwurst Sausages (two 19 oz. packages, about 10 to 12 sausages, uncooked). Grab two packs of bratwurst sausage. This gives you about 10 to 12 bratwurst sausages, which is perfect for a crowd or just a super hungry group of friends.
• Sauerkraut (2 to 3 cups, optional). Sauerkraut adds rich, tangy, and classic flavor to bratwurst.
• Onion (1 large, thinly sliced). Onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks down with the bratwurst. The onion soaks up the flavors of the beer and mustard sauce—it’s like a little flavor bomb in every bite.
• Garlic (2 to 3 cloves, minced). Garlic just makes everything better, right? It brings that delicious, savory aroma that fills the whole house. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped). Fresh parsley adds a bit of freshness and color to balance out the richness of the bratwurst. Plus, adding a bit of fresh chopped parsley at the end makes the dish look extra appetizing.
• Celery Salt (½ teaspoon). Celery salt adds a subtle, savory flavor that really compliments the bratwurst. It’s like the extra something you didn’t know you needed.
• Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon). Light brown sugar adds sweetness to the slow cooker bratwurst recipe.
• Caraway Seeds (½ teaspoon, optional). Tiny caraway seeds add a hint of earthiness and a bit of that classic bratwurst flavor. They’re optional, but they make a big difference in the flavor.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon, optional): Add just a little black pepper to bring some gentle heat.
• Butter (2 tablespoons). Because everything’s better with butter! Butter helps to create a rich sauce that coats the brats beautifully.
• Dijon Mustard or Coarse Ground Mustard (2 Tablespoons). Mustard is a must have with bratwurst. The tanginess of Dijon mustard and the texture of coarse ground mustard really makes the flavor pop.
• Honey (1 tablespoon). Honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the mustard. It adds a little something special to the sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (optional). Just a splash—about 1 to 2 tablespoons—of apple cider vinegar adds a bright, tangy kick that balances the rich flavors of the brats and cuts through the fattiness. It’s especially great if you’re adding sauerkraut, giving everything a nice, zesty punch.
• Chicken Broth (optional). If you’re not in the mood for beer or want a milder flavor, swap in chicken broth as the cooking liquid. It keeps the brats juicy and adds a savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Use about 1 to 2 cups in place of beer for a lighter, comforting taste. You can also add chicken broth to the slow cooker if the dish starts to dry out while the bratwurst is cooking.
• Sliced Apple (optional). Adding a cored, sliced apple or two to the slow cooker brings a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory brats and tangy sauerkraut. The apples soften as they cook, adding a bit of texture and a hint of sweet tart flavor that makes every bite more interesting.
• Beer (one 12 oz. bottle or can). Beer adds depth and complexity to the dish as it simmers with the bratwurst. A light beer like a lager or pilsner works well, but feel free to use your favorite.

How to Make Slow Cooker Bratwurst

There’s nothing quite like fall football season—the friends, family, and thrill of the game. And let’s be real, half of the fun is the food.

It’s the best time to make something that keeps everyone happy without taking away from all the action. That’s where slow cooker bratwurst comes in. It’s simple and easy to make, and it’s almost always a sure crowd pleaser.

Start with a couple of packages of uncooked bratwurst sausages—and get them ready for their first round of cooking in a grill pan or in a seasoned cast iron skillet. A quick sear on each side is all that the sausages need to develop that delicious, smoky flavor that will help to flavor the ingredients in the slow cooker.

The brats don’t need to be cooked through—you’re just looking for that perfect char that will make everyone’s mouth water.

While the bratwurst is cooking on the stovetop, layer the bottom of a large slow cooker with sauerkraut (optional), thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. You can also add a can of sauerkraut if you like the flavor of sauerkraut with your bratwurst.

Next, sprinkle in some chopped fresh parsley, celery salt, and a few caraway seeds to add that classic bratwurst vibe. If you like things to be a little spicy, toss in some black pepper, too.

Now, here’s where things get really good. Melt some butter in a saucepan—because, let’s be honest, butter makes everything better—and stir in some Dijon mustard and honey. The tangy mustard and sweet honey come together to make this amazing sauce that coats the brats perfectly.

Place the grilled sausages right on top of the onions and seasoning mix in the slow cooker, and then pour in a can of beer. A lighter beer like a lager or pilsner is a good choice, but any favorite will do.

The beer adds depth and helps all those flavors meld together. But if beer is not your vibe, you can also substitute an equal amount (about 1 1/2 cups) of chicken broth or apple cider—or a blend of both.

Finally, drizzle the honey mustard sauce over everything for that extra burst of flavor.

Cook the slow cooker bratwurst on low for about 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you’ve got before the game kickoff or any other occasion.

Note: The bratwurst should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F, as measured by an instant read thermometer. This helps to ensure that the bratwurst are fully cooked, while still staying juicy and tender.

By the time that everyone arrives, the brats are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, just waiting to be devoured. Keep the slow cooker on the “warm” setting, so the brats stay hot and ready as your guests line up to make their plates.

Everyone can grab a bratwurst, load it up with their favorite condiments, or just enjoy it as is. It’s the perfect game day food—easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing with the people you love most.

Plus, using a slow cooker to cook the bratwurst means you can spend more time cheering on your favorite team and less time stuck in the kitchen. Game day just wouldn’t be the same without them!

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Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Bratwurst

Here are some tips for making the best slow cooker bratwurst that’s super juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

• Sear or grill the bratwurst first. Before they hit the slow cooker, give the bratwurst sausages a quick sear in a grill pan or in a cast iron skillet. This step locks in the juices and adds that beautiful charred flavor that makes a big difference. You don’t have to cook the sausages through—just cook them for a few minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned.
• Use a good beer. The beer that you choose matters! Go for something that has a flavor you enjoy—whether it’s a pale ale, a lager, or even a dark beer. The beer infuses the brats with flavor, and it helps to keep them moist as they cook. Don’t worry if you’re not a beer person; you can swap it for a good quality chicken broth or apple cider for a different twist.
• Layer the flavor. When you add the bratwurst to the slow cooker, don’t just throw them in! Start with a layer of sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom, then place the bratwurst on top. This lets the onions and garlic cook down into a sweet, savory base that complements the brats perfectly. Adding sauerkraut (about 2 to 3 cups) to the slow cooker adds even more flavor.
• Don’t skimp on the sauce. A simple mixture of Dijon mustard, honey, and butter is the secret to delicious and flavorful slow cooker bratwurst. It adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the bratwurst and beer. Drizzle it over everything before cooking and stir it in when you’re ready to serve for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cook low and slow for juiciness. If you have time, cook the bratwurst on low for 4 to 5 hours to keep them tender and juicy. High heat can sometimes dry them out, so low and slow is the way to go. This gives the brats time to soak up all the flavors from the beer, onions, and sauce without getting tough. If cooking on high heat, keep an eye on the bratwurst—if it’s starting to dry out, add a small amount (about ½ to 1 cup, or as needed) of water, chicken broth, or apple cider for moisture.
• Let the sausages rest. Before serving, let the bratwurst sit in the slow cooker (turned off or on warm) for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute throughout the sausages, so every bite is as juicy as the first!

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What Goes Well with Slow Cooker Bratwurst?

When you’re serving up slow cooker brats on game day, it’s fun to go all out with the slow cooker bratwurst side dishes because, honestly, what’s a great brat without some tasty sides to go with it?

Look for side dishes that are easy to whip up, satisfy a crowd, and that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here are some of the best slow cooker bratwurst side dishes that always hit the spot.

First up is homemade coleslaw, which is crunchy, tangy, and just creamy enough to balance out the savory brats. It’s super simple to make with cabbage, carrots, a little red onion, and a tangy mayo dressing.

Another must have is German potato salad—it’s warm, smoky, and loaded with bacon. Forget the mayo version—this one is all about that tangy flavor from apple cider vinegar and a little Dijon mustard (which pairs well with the flavor of the bratwurst).

For something sweet and smoky, you can also serve baked beans. Doctor up a can or two of baked beans with brown sugar, molasses, mustard, and bacon or sausage, and let it bake until it’s thick and bubbling.

To balance things out, throw in some grilled or roasted veggies—think bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes—tossed with olive oil and seasonings.

And of course, sauerkraut is a classic topping that adds a tangy crunch to bratwurst, but I also like to mix things up with some pickled veggies.

Macaroni and cheese is another crowd pleaser—especially when it has creamy, cheesy, and baked with a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.

Or keep things simple, and go for potato chips with dip—like French onion dip, which are perfect for casual snacking. If it’s warm outside, corn on the cob is always a hit, or if it’s cooler, a batch of sweet cornbread does the trick. A pickle and veggie platter also adds a fresh, crisp bite that’s great between all the rich dishes.

The key is to mix and match the slow cooker sauerkraut side dishes, so that there’s something for everyone—whether they want crunchy, creamy, tangy, or savory. That way, everyone’s happy, well fed, and ready to cheer on the team, play a great game, or watch the best movies together.

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How to Store Leftover Bratwurst

To store leftover slow cooker bratwurst, let the sausages cool completely, then transfer them (along with any sauerkraut or juices) into an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator, where the bratwurst should keep for up to 2 to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat the bratwurst in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. Cut a few slits in each bratwurst before reheating them to allow air to escape.

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Slow Cooker Bratwurst Recipe

Here is how to make slow cooker bratwurst that makes a delicious main dish for potlucks and gatherings. The slow cooker will keep the brats warm and flavorful, making them perfect for game day and other special occasions.

Looking for more of the best game day recipes?

• Incredibly Good Seven Layer Dip for Your Next Party
• The Best Stuffed Jalapeño Dip Recipe
• How to Make Homemade Queso Dip

This post was all about how to make slow cooker bratwurst.

Credits

• How to Make Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
• The Best Chicken Schnitzel Recipe | How to Make Chicken Schnitzel with Creamy Lemon Sauce
• How to Make German Style Potato Salad

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