These Beer Brat Sliders are small but packed with flavor! With juicy bratwurst mixed with your favorite beer, they’re a fun twist on a classic.
Perfect for parties or game day, these sliders are easy to make and always a hit. I love serving them with a dollop of mustard; it just makes everything better! 🌭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bratwurst Sausages: Look for fresh bratwurst at the meat counter. If you can’t find it, Italian sausage is a great substitute! Just make sure to choose a mild flavor so that the beer and seasonings shine through.
Beer: Any lager or ale works well! Don’t worry about using an expensive brew; a standard lager will give good flavor. For a non-alcoholic option, consider using chicken or beef broth mixed with a splash of vinegar for similar depth.
Onion: While optional, I recommend using a small onion for added moisture and sweetness. If you want a milder taste, use green onions instead. You can also skip the onion entirely if you prefer.
Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a nice tang. If you’re not a Dijon fan, you can use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard for a little kick. I personally love using horseradish mustard for an extra punch!
How Do I Make Sure My Patties Stay Together?
Keeping your brat patties intact while cooking is key for great sliders. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to mix the sausage with the other ingredients thoroughly, but don’t overwork the meat; this keeps the texture light.
- Form the patties gently and be sure they are uniform in size to cook evenly.
- If you’re worried about them falling apart, refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes before cooking. It helps them firm up!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Patties?
Whether you’re using a skillet or a grill, here’s how to ensure perfectly cooked brat patties:
- Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. This helps create a good sear.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; they can go from brown to burnt quickly!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 160°F is the magic number for sausage.
These tips will help you achieve slider perfection. Enjoy these tasty Beer Brat Sliders with friends and family!
How to Make Beer Brat Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound bratwurst sausages, casing removed
- 1/2 cup beer (lager or ale preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling:
- Slider buns (8-10)
- Pickle slices, for topping
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw, for garnish
- Mustard or spicy brown mustard, for spreading
Time Needed to Prepare:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus around 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you will need about 30 minutes to get these delicious sliders from the kitchen to the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausage Mixture:
In a medium bowl, take the bratwurst sausage meat after you’ve removed the casing. Add in the beer, chopped onion (if using), Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a fork until it’s well combined—just be careful not to overmix it!
2. Form the Patties:
Once your mixture is nicely blended, divide it into small portions. Shape each portion into slider-sized patties, about the same size as your buns. Make sure they are even to cook uniformly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the skillet or grill, and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, and wait until they are nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for safety.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, grab your slider buns and lightly toast them on the grill or in a separate pan until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy later on!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Now comes the fun part! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and spread some mustard of your choice. Place the cooked brat slider patty on top, then add a slice or two of pickles and a small handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw for that extra freshness and crunch.
6. Add the Top Buns:
Finally, put the top half of the bun on each slider, and they’re ready to serve! Enjoy them warm and fresh.
Beer Brat Sliders make a fantastic appetizer or a main dish for casual get-togethers. Pair them with your favorite beer, and you’re all set for a great time! Cheers! 🥳
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is traditional, you can use any ground sausage you like, such as Italian sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage mixture and form the patties up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This can help enhance the flavors!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The patties may lose some crispness, but they’ll still taste great!
What Can I Serve on the Side?
These sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving chips, a fresh garden salad, or coleslaw. For a heartier option, potato salad or baked beans are also great choices!
