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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!

Grilled bratwurst sausage on charcoal cutting board.

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

Uncooked bratwurst sausages with German mustard in the background.
  • 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

Bratwurst sausages on the grill.

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

Bratwurst sausages on the grill with rosemary.

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

Bratwurst sausages on the grill.

Remove the brats from the grill, tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Grilled bratwurst sausage on charcoal cutting board.

Serve in hot dog buns with your favorite toppings or on their own.

Grilled bratwurst on charcoal cutting board. Rosemary, chips and condiments in the background.

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!

Bratwurst sausages on the grill.

Grilled Bratwurst

Joss Dyckson
Grilled bratwurst sausage is a delicious and simple way to feed a crowd quickly and easily.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine German
Servings 4
Calories 338 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bratwurst sausages - uncooked
  • 4 hot dog buns

Toppings (optional):

Instructions
 

  • Heat a charcoal or gas grill to medium heat. Place the bratwurst sausages on the grill and keep the lid open.
    Bratwurst sausages on the grill.
  • 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.
    Bratwurst sausages on the grill.
  • Remove the brats from the grill, tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.
    Grilled bratwurst sausage on charcoal cutting board.
  • Serve in hot dog buns with toppings or on their own.
    Grilled bratwurst on charcoal cutting board. Rosemary, chips and condiments on the side.

Equipment

Outdoor grill

Notes

  • Nutrition information does not include the toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 338kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 13gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 49mgSodium: 768mgPotassium: 282mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information on In the Kitch is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It may not include toppings and/or sauces.

Keyword grilled pork
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between bratwurst and sausage?

Sausage is a more broad term, whereas bratwurst is a specific type of German link sausage.

How long does it take to grill bratwurst sausages?

It takes about 8 to 10 minutes total over medium heat.

How many calories in 1 bratwurst sausage?

1 cooked bratwurst sausage made with pork has approximately 283 calories.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? TRY OUR:

Sausage Sandwich

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