This 5-ingredient slow cooker bratwurst is the kind of low-effort dinner that feels like a win on a busy weeknight. Raw bratwurst links slowly simmer with onions, sauerkraut, and a couple pantry staples until they turn juicy, flavorful, and perfect for piling onto buns or serving straight from the crock. It has that cozy Midwestern comfort-food feel I always come back to when I need something hearty that practically cooks itself.
Serve these bratwursts with toasted hoagie rolls or brat buns, a side of potato salad, kettle chips, roasted potatoes, or simple green beans. If you want to lean into the beer-hall vibe, a grainy mustard on the side is great, and the tangy sauerkraut mixture pairs especially well with buttery mashed potatoes or a crisp cucumber salad.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Bratwurst
Servings: 6
Ingredients
6 raw bratwurst links
Directions
1. Spread the sliced onion and sauerkraut in the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the raw bratwurst links on top in a single layer as much as possible.
2. Pour the beer or chicken broth around the bratwurst, then spoon the brown mustard over the top.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the bratwurst are fully cooked and very tender.
4. If you like, transfer the bratwurst to a skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes to brown the outsides, then return them to the slow cooker or serve right away.
5. Serve the bratwurst with the onion-sauerkraut mixture on buns or plates with your favorite sides.
Variations & Tips
Make it alcohol-free: Chicken broth works beautifully in place of beer, so you still get plenty of moisture and savory flavor without changing the easy method.
Add sweetness: If you like a sweet-tangy balance, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of brown sugar or add a sliced apple with the onions. It gives the sauerkraut mixture a softer, more rounded flavor.
Use the right buns: If you plan to serve these as sandwiches, sturdy brat buns or hoagie rolls hold up best to the juicy filling. I like to toast them so they do not get soggy too quickly.
Brown for extra flavor: The slow cooker makes the brats tender, but a quick sear at the end gives them that classic bratwurst color and a little extra texture. It is worth the extra few minutes if you have time.
Meal prep tip: Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the bratwurst with the sauerkraut and onions together, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for an easy lunch or dinner later in the week.
