Crockpot Bratwurst & Sauerkraut: Slow-Simmered, Beer-Bathed, and Bursting With Bold Bavarian Flavor

ByKarl S

Crockpot Bratwurst & Sauerkraut is the set-it-and-forget-it version of beer hall comfort food — juicy brats slow-cooked in malty beer with tangy sauerkraut, sweet onions, and garlic.

The long simmer infuses the brats with savory depth while mellowing the kraut into a rich, craveable side.

Whether you pile it on a bun, serve it over mashed potatoes, or eat it straight from the pot, this is low-effort, high-flavor cooking that tastes like Oktoberfest in a bowl.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

  • 6 fresh bratwursts (uncooked, raw-style)
  • 2 tbsp oil or butter (for browning)
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb sauerkraut, drained (but not rinsed)
  • 1 cup beer (Oktoberfest Märzen, Helles, or amber lager)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1 apple, peeled and sliced (adds sweetness)

To Serve

  • Toasted buns or rolls
  • Spicy mustard or beer mustard
  • Mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or roasted veggies
  • Extra sauerkraut from the pot

Instructions

  1. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Brown bratwursts on all sides until golden — 3–5 minutes total. No need to cook through.
  3. Set aside. This step adds deep flavor, but you can skip it for speed.

Step 2: Layer the Crockpot

  1. In the bottom of the slow cooker, layer onions, garlic, sauerkraut, and apple (if using).
  2. Sprinkle in brown sugar, caraway seeds, and black pepper.
  3. Nestle brats on top or in between layers.
  4. Pour beer evenly over everything.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

  • Low setting: 6–7 hours
  • High setting: 3–4 hours

Brats should be fully cooked (internal temp 160°F) and the sauerkraut should be tender and mellow.

Step 4: Serve Hot

  1. Serve brats whole on buns with mustard and a scoop of kraut
  2. Or plate over mashed potatoes or spaetzle with pan juices
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra mustard on the side

Flavor Variations

  • Add sliced kielbasa or smoked sausage for variety
  • Swap apple for sliced fennel or pear
  • Use dark beer (bock, porter) for a richer, more intense broth
  • Want a kick? Add chili flakes or a dash of hot mustard into the pot

Beer Pairing

In the Pot

  • Märzen, Helles, Vienna Lager — smooth, malty, low bitterness
  • Avoid IPAs or stouts — too bitter or roasted for this dish

In Your Glass

  • Same beer used in cooking
  • Pilsner or Kölsch for a crisp counterpoint
  • Rauchbier or smoked lager for a deeper sausage match
  • Apple cider for a sweet-tart pairing with kraut

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bratwurst & Sauerkraut is a beer lover’s weeknight cheat code: minimal effort, maximum payoff. It’s rich, savory, a little tangy, and full of brat-soaked beer broth you’ll want to mop up with crusty bread or a soft pretzel.

Lid off, stein up — this is slow-cooked sausage bliss. 🌭🍺🥔🔥

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