These 5-ingredient slow cooker pork bratwursts are the kind of easy supper that saves a busy day and still feels hearty enough to gather everyone around the table. Slow cooking keeps the bratwursts tender while onions, sauerkraut, and a simple splash of beer or broth turn into a savory, cozy mixture with classic bratwurst flavor and hardly any hands-on work.
Serve these bratwursts on toasted buns with mustard for a casual family dinner, or plate them with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or buttered noodles for something a little more comforting. A crisp pickle, simple green beans, or a cabbage slaw make nice sides to balance the richness, and if you like, set out extra mustard and a little shredded cheese for everyone to build their own plate.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pork Bratwursts
Servings: 6
Ingredients
6 raw pork bratwursts
1 large onion, thinly sliced
16 ounces sauerkraut, drained lightly
1 cup beer or chicken broth
2 tablespoons brown mustard
Directions
1. Spread the sliced onion in the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the raw pork bratwursts on top in a single layer as much as possible.
2. Spoon the sauerkraut over and around the bratwursts, then whisk the beer or broth with the brown mustard and pour it into the slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the bratwursts are fully cooked and very tender.
4. Serve the bratwursts hot with the onions and sauerkraut spooned over the top, either on buns or alongside your favorite sides.
Variations & Tips
Milder Family Version: If you have kids or picky eaters who are unsure about sauerkraut, use a little less and add an extra sliced onion. The onions soften into the broth and give the dish a gentler flavor while still keeping that classic bratwurst feel.
No Beer Option: Chicken broth works beautifully here if you prefer not to cook with beer. It still gives the bratwursts enough moisture and makes a savory cooking liquid that tastes wonderful spooned over potatoes or buns.
For Better Color: If you have a few extra minutes, brown the raw bratwursts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional, but it gives the sausages a deeper color and a slightly richer flavor.
Make It Bun-Friendly: To serve these on rolls, remove the cooked bratwursts and let them rest for a minute while you use a slotted spoon for the onion and sauerkraut mixture. That keeps the buns from getting too soggy and makes the sandwiches easier to eat.