Grilled Brats with Beer Onions
Plump, snappy grilled bratwurst simmered in a foil pan with beer, butter, and sweet caramelized onions for game-day feeding.
grill Timer
Set for 18 mins @ Medium Heat (350°F / 177°C) (Flip at 8m)
Ingredients
Base recipe calibrated for 5 adults.
Get to the Point Execution
Combine 1 sliced onion, 2 tbsp butter, and 1 can (12 oz) lager beer in a foil pan on the grill.
Grill 5 bratwurst links over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning frequently until casings are golden-brown.
Transfer brats into the bubbling beer onion pan; simmer 6 minutes until internal temp reaches 160°F.
Serve in pretzel buns loaded with beer onions and spicy mustard.
Step-by-Step Guided Instructions
Slice 1 large yellow onion into rings. Place into a disposable foil pan with 2 tbsp butter, 1 can (12 oz) amber or lager beer, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Set the pan directly on the side of the grill grates over medium heat.
The beer hot tub keeps brats warm, juicy, and infused with sweet onion flavor without bursting their casings.
Place 5 fresh pork bratwurst links over medium direct heat (350°F). Grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning with tongs every 2 to 3 minutes until casings are taut, blistered, and golden-brown.
NEVER poke holes in brats with a fork; puncturing casings releases all internal juices and causes grease flare-ups.
Transfer the seared brats directly into the bubbling beer onion pan using tongs. Close the grill lid and let brats simmer in the beer bath for 6 minutes until internal temperature hits 160°F.
Simmering in the beer bath gently finishes cooking the core of the sausage without scorching the outside.
Nestle brats into warm pretzel or bakery sausage rolls. Spoon heaps of tender beer-soaked onions over top and stripe with spicy brown or stone-ground mustard.
Pretzel buns have the structural density needed to hold heavy sausages and juicy beer onions without falling apart.
Never pierce the brat casing with a fork. Puncturing leaks out all the savory fat and turns the brat into dry sawdust. Sear gently over medium heat, then transfer into the beer-and-butter onion bath to hold until game time.
Serve brats in standard soft hot dog buns with ketchup and mild mustard, omitting beer onions.
- German potato salad
- Grilled corn
- Kettle cooked chips
Reheat brats in skillet with 2 tbsp beer or water covered for 4 minutes.