Ah, the glorious sizzle of beer brats on the grill—it’s a sound that sings of backyard gatherings and chilly fall afternoons. Picture this: juicy sausages infused with the bold, hoppy notes of your favorite brew, nestled beneath a mountain of sweet, caramelized onions, and draped in a creamy cheddar sauce that could quite literally make angels weep. Honestly, who needs a football game when you’ve got a plate of these beauties in front of you?
Steps
- Prepare the onions by removing the ends and skins, then slicing them thinly. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and toss in the onions to coat them. Cook for 40-45 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until they turn golden brown and caramelized, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. Place the brats on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently, until they are browned and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- While the brats are grilling, make the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and garlic powder, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until it slightly boils and thickens.
- Reduce the heat to low and add in the cheddar cheese, whisking until it melts smoothly. Stir in mustard and season with salt, adding more milk if the sauce needs thinning. Keep warm until ready to serve.
- To assemble, place each brat in a bun, then top with the caramelized onions and cheese sauce. Serve immediately while everything is warm.
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow onions, sliced (approximately 2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 (19 oz) package Johnsonville Original or Beer N’ Bratwurst Brats
- 5 brat or hoagie buns
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup milk, plus more if needed for thinning
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt, to taste
FAQ
- What makes this bratwurst recipe special?
- This recipe stands out because it combines juicy bratwursts with homemade cheddar cheese sauce and perfectly caramelized onions, all served on a crusty bun. These elements together create a rich and flavorful dish perfect for summer cookouts.
- What are some suggested toppings for beer brats?
- Suggested toppings include classic sauerkraut and mustard, crispy bacon slices, sautéed bell peppers and onions, pickles with ketchup and mustard, and different types of mustard like spicy brown, creamy, or honey mustard. The cheddar cheese sauce and caramelized onions are also highly recommended.
- How do you make the caramelized onions?
- To make caramelized onions, slice three medium yellow onions and cook them in a mixture of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low if needed, and stir occasionally for about 40 to 45 minutes until they turn golden brown and develop a rich flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Can I use different types of buns for the brats?
- Yes, you can get creative with the buns. While regular hot dog buns are great, you might also try hoagie rolls, pretzel buns, or even a baguette to add variety to your meal.
- What is Bratsgiving, and how can I celebrate it?
- Bratsgiving is a celebration on August 16th, National Bratwurst Day, created by Johnsonville as a way to gather with family and friends around the grill. You can celebrate by hosting a cookout featuring a variety of Johnsonville bratwursts and sharing the joy of brats with your loved ones.
Tips
- Perfectly Caramelize the Onions: Ensure your onions are sliced evenly and cook them slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to achieve that deep golden brown color and rich flavor. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Grill Brats to Perfection: Preheat your grill to medium-low and cook the brats, turning them frequently to ensure even browning. Aim for an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are cooked through.
- Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce: As the brats grill, prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour and garlic powder, and slowly whisking in milk. Stir until thickened, then mix in cheddar cheese and mustard. Thin with extra milk if needed for the right consistency.
- Experiment with Buns and Toppings: While traditional buns work great, consider using hoagie rolls, pretzel buns, or even a baguette for added texture. Customize your brats with a variety of toppings like sauerkraut, mustard, or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Equipment
- Heavy stainless steel or cast iron skillet
- Grill thermometer (to ensure the brats reach the correct internal temperature)
- Small saucepan (if you don’t already have one)
- Whisk (for the cheese sauce)
