Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut Recipe

Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut Recipe

The ultimate German street food classic

By Sarah Mitchell June 14, 2026

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 25 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
germanbratwurstsauerkrautbeer-gardeneasy
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Juicy pork bratwurst grilled until the casing snaps, served on a bed of tangy sauerkraut cooked with apple, caraway, and a splash of beer. This is the taste of every German beer garden and Christmas market.

About This Recipe

"Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut" is a Dinner recipe that brings German bratwurst sausages, sauerkraut, drained, apple, peeled and grated, caraway seeds and German beer together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 35 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 4 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

  • 8 German bratwurst sausages
  • 2 lb sauerkraut, drained
  • 1 apple, peeled and grated
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds
  • 1 cup German beer
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • German mustard for serving

Instructions

  1. 1

    Melt butter in a pot. Add drained sauerkraut, grated apple, caraway seeds, and beer. Simmer covered for 20 minutes.

  2. 2

    Grill or pan-fry bratwurst over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.

  3. 3

    Serve bratwurst on a mound of warm sauerkraut with a generous dollop of German mustard.

Expert Tips

For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. German bratwurst sausages is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.

What To Serve With This

"Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

536
Calories
32g
Protein
24g
Fat
35g
Carbs
4g
Fiber
6g
Sugar
619mg
Sodium

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 35 minutes. It serves 4 and is rated Easy.

How do I store leftover Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut?

Store leftover Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

Can I make Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Bavarian Bratwurst with Sauerkraut in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.

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