These Beer Brat Sliders are a fun twist on the classic bratwurst, packed with flavor and served on soft, mini buns. They’re perfect for gatherings or a tasty snack!
Cooking them in beer makes them super juicy, and you’ll have everyone asking for more. I love piling on my favorite toppings—it’s like a mini party in every bite! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst: The star of these sliders! You can use any type of bratwurst, but if you want a twist, try chicken or turkey bratwurst for a lighter option. Vegetarian sausage also works great!
Beer: A good lager or ale adds rich flavor. Don’t have beer? You can use non-alcoholic beer or even broth for a delicious substitute. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.
Slider Buns: Soft slider buns are perfect for this recipe. You can swap them for whole wheat or gluten-free buns. Even larger sandwich rolls can work if that’s what you’ve got!
Coleslaw: I love using store-bought coleslaw for convenience, but making your own allows customization. Try adding apples or nuts for a fun texture!
How Can I Cook Perfectly Juicy Patties?
Cooking brat patties can be tricky since you want them juicy without being undercooked. Here’s the best way to get it right:
- Form your patties evenly, so they cook at the same rate.
- Cook them on medium heat and avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook. This keeps the juices in.
- The simmering step with beer is key! It helps infuse flavor and keeps the patties moist. Don’t skip this!
Remember, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) for safety. Happy cooking!
Beer Brat Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 lb bratwurst sausage meat (removed from casings)
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional, for added flavor in patties)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
For Assembling:
- 12 slider buns, split
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: mustard or pickles for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll spend time forming patties, cooking them in beer, toasting buns, and assembling your sliders. In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious snack perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’d like to melt cheese on your buns later. A little gooey cheese makes everything better!
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the bratwurst meat with the finely diced onion (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until the seasonings are evenly distributed—don’t overwork the meat!
3. Form Your Patties:
Shape the mixture into 12 small patties. Make sure they are about the size of your slider buns for a perfect fit!
4. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your brat patties and cook until they are browned on one side, roughly 3-4 minutes.
5. Simmer with Beer:
Carefully pour the beer over the cooked side of the brat patties in the skillet. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let everything simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This step will keep your patties juicy and flavorful!
6. Toast the Buns:
While the brat patties are cooking, you can lightly toast your slider buns. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Melt the Cheese:
If you want cheesy sliders, place some shredded cheddar on the bottom buns and pop them in the oven for 3-5 minutes to melt the cheese. Yum!
8. Assemble the Sliders:
To put it all together, take the cheese-topped buns and place a cooked brat patty on each one. Top it with a generous spoonful of coleslaw for that crunch.
9. Final Touch:
Add the bun tops, press down slightly, and they’re ready to serve! Feel free to add mustard or pickles for some extra flavor.
10. Enjoy!
Dig into your juicy, flavorful Beer Brat Sliders, perfect for game day or casual gatherings. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute bratwurst with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may vary.
What Beer Should I Use for This Recipe?
A good lager or ale works best, but feel free to use your favorite beer! If you prefer not to use alcohol, non-alcoholic beer or chicken broth can be used as substitutes to maintain flavor.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the brat patties up to a day in advance. Just form them, cover tightly, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the original instructions.
What Can I Serve with Beer Brat Sliders?
These sliders pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with potato chips, fries, or a simple green salad. They’re also great with a cold beverage of your choice!