Bratwurst Patties
Juicy, savory bratwurst sausage formed into hearty patties and pan-fried to a perfect golden brown. All the classic flavor of a brat, but ready in minutes and perfect for a bun or alongside eggs. A delicious twist on a German-American favorite.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Patties and Sauté Onions
- b.Carefully slice open the bratwurst casings and empty the sausage meat into a medium bowl.
- c.Gently form the meat into four equal-sized patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Avoid overworking the meat to keep them tender. Season the outside of each patty with a pinch of black pepper.
- d.In a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- e.Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Bratwurst Patties
- b.Place the same skillet back over medium-high heat. You shouldn't need extra oil.
- c.Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, ensuring they don't touch.
- d.Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms and the patties are cooked through.
- e.Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- f.If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the final minute of cooking and cover the skillet to help it melt.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.While the patties are cooking, you can toast the inside of the pretzel buns. For extra flavor, toast them in the skillet after the patties are done, soaking up some of the rendered fat.
- c.Spread a generous layer of stone-ground mustard on the top and bottom buns.
- d.Place a cooked patty on each bottom bun.
- e.Top with a portion of the sautéed onions and a spoonful of drained sauerkraut.
- f.Place the top bun on and serve immediately while hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the juiciest patties, use bratwurst with a good fat content and avoid pressing down on them with a spatula as they cook.
- 2A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your patties are cooked safely without overcooking them.
- 3Let the cooked patties rest for 2-3 minutes before assembling the burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- 4For a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dark German beer to the onions as they caramelize.
- 5If you prefer a milder sauerkraut flavor, you can rinse it briefly under cold water before draining.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheese Swap
Instead of Swiss, try using Muenster, smoked Gouda, or Provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.
Bun less OptionBun-less Option
Serve the bratwurst patty over a bed of German potato salad or alongside spaetzle and red cabbage for a more traditional plate.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Use spicy bratwurst sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions as they cook for some added heat.
Herb InfusionHerb Infusion
Mix a teaspoon of finely chopped caraway seeds or fresh parsley into the sausage meat before forming the patties for an aromatic twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Bratwurst is a rich source of complete protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Source of B Vitamins
Pork, the primary ingredient in bratwurst, provides essential B vitamins like Niacin (B3) and Vitamin B12, which are crucial for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
Gut Health Support
The sauerkraut topping is a fermented food rich in probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can help improve digestion and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
A single Bratwurst Patty burger, including the bun and toppings, contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the specific bratwurst brand, bun size, and whether you add cheese.