Stovetop Beer Brats with Onions
Juicy bratwurst simmered in lager with caramelized onions, all made on the stovetop for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Prep10 min
- Cook25 min
- Total35 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings6
These beer brats bring all the classic flavors of a backyard cookout right to your stovetop. No grill needed—just a skillet, some good lager, and a handful of simple ingredients.
First, the bratwurst are seared until golden, then simmered in beer with sweet onions until tender and infused with flavor. Serve them on crusty rolls with mustard and warm sauerkraut for the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- In a large (12-inch/30-cm) cast iron skillet or nonstick pan with a tight-fitting lid, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst and sear until nicely browned, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Using tongs, transfer the sausages to a plate and set aside.
- Add the sliced onions and salt to the same skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the onions are softened and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Lower the heat if they start to burn.
- Return the bratwurst to the pan, placing them on top of the onions. Pour in the beer and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover with the lid, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium, and continue cooking until the bratwurst are cooked through and the beer has reduced by about three-quarters, 10 to 12 minutes more.
- Serve the bratwurst and onions on the rolls with mustard and warm sauerkraut, if desired.
💡 Tips
- For best results, use a good-quality lager beer—avoid light beers as they lack flavor.
- If you don't have a lid, cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil during the simmering step.
- Serve with extra mustard and sauerkraut on the side for guests to customize.
Inspired by a recipe from Once Upon a Chef