Grilled bratwurst sausage is a delicious and simple way to feed a crowd quickly and easily. This recipe only takes about 8 minutes of cooking time. These instructions for how to grill bratwurst will have you hitting the grill in no time!
Bratwurst Sausage History
Bratwurst is an ancient German sausage, with some recipes dating as far back as the 1300s out of Nuremberg, Germany. The name itself means finely chopped sausage meat. These tasty links were originally used as a way to prevent food waste and were a means of survival, as leftover scraps of meat could be ground and stuffed into casings.
Today, they are a widespread and beloved icon of German-speaking cultures, and as many as 40 different varieties of the sausage can be found throughout Germany. In addition to mainstream pork bratwurst, beef and veal varieties can also be found in some areas.
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
- 4 bratwurst sausages
- 4 hot dog buns
Optional Toppings:
- Sauerkraut
- Grilled onions
- German mustard
Many local butchers and delis offer quality artisanal bratwurst, and just like the different regions of Germany, each seller has its unique recipe and flavor. A quick online search may help you to find an excellent local source of delicious bratwurst. Sausage links purchased at your local grocery store will also work wonderfully.
Step 2: Heat Grill to Medium & Add the Sausages
Heat a charcoal or gas grill to medium heat. Place the bratwurst sausages on the grill and keep the lid open.
Step 3: Grill the Bratwurst
Grill the sausages, turning frequently, until the skin is crispy with grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This should take about 8-10 minutes total.
Step 4: Remove & Let Rest
Remove the brats from the grill, tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Serve in hot dog buns with your favorite toppings or on their own.
Serving Options
The options for serving your cooked bratwurst are endless. They are usually served on buns with German mustard, sauerkraut, and grilled onions but you can serve them on their own. You could also opt for melted cheese for a truly delectable meal.
In German pubs, bratwurst is popularly served along with or in a fresh white roll, but sometimes with rye bread or a soft pretzel instead. A potato salad also makes an excellent and traditional side for your grilled sausages.
Of course, they also pair well with a tall glass of German beer. No matter how you choose to serve your grilled bratwurst, they are sure to be a hit!
What do you like to serve with your bratwurst? Let us know in the comments and please share the recipe!
How to Grill Bratwurst
Ingredients
- 4 bratwurst sausages - uncooked
- 4 hot dog buns
Toppings (optional):
- Sauerkraut
- Grilled onions
- German mustard
Instructions
- Heat a charcoal or gas grill to medium heat. Place the bratwurst sausages on the grill and keep the lid open.
- Grill the sausages, turning frequently, until the skin is crispy with grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This should take about 8-10 minutes total.
- Remove the brats from the grill, tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve in hot dog buns with toppings or on their own.
Equipment
Notes
- Nutrition information does not include the toppings.
Nutrition
Nutrition information on In the Kitch is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It may not include toppings and/or sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sausage is a more broad term, whereas bratwurst is a specific type of German link sausage.
It takes about 8 to 10 minutes total over medium heat.
1 cooked bratwurst sausage made with pork has approximately 283 calories.
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