Savory Cheesy Bratwurst Skillet with Sauerkraut
Indulge in this delightful Savory Cheesy Bratwurst Skillet with Sauerkraut, a perfect blend of flavors that brings together juicy bratwursts, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese in one easy-to-make dish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this hearty meal will please your family and friends with its comforting taste and minimal prep. Made with just five ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
bratwursts
1 (16 ounce) package (Use a pack of 5 bratwursts.)
sauerkraut
2 cups (Drain well before adding to the skillet.)
beer
1/2 cup (Any type of beer; adjust based on preference.)
mustard
1/4 cup (Use your choice of mustard for seasoning.)
Swiss cheese
1 1/2 cups (Grated for easy melting.)
Instructions
1
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat.
2
Add 1/2 cup of beer to the skillet, allowing it to warm for a minute.
3
Carefully place the bratwursts into the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with beer.
4
Cover the skillet and cook for 10 minutes, then turn the bratwursts over and cook for an additional 10 minutes until fully cooked.
5
Once the bratwursts are cooked through, stir in the drained sauerkraut and your choice of mustard, combining well and heating through for about 3-5 minutes.
6
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the grated Swiss cheese generously over the bratwursts and sauerkraut, allowing it to melt slightly.
7
Serve hot, accompanied by crispy fried potatoes or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Cheesy Bratwurst Skillet with Sauerkraut?
It is a hearty one-pan meal that combines juicy bratwursts, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, simmered in beer for a rich flavor.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires only 5 main ingredients: bratwursts, sauerkraut, beer, mustard, and Swiss cheese.
What size package of bratwurst should I use?
A 16-ounce package containing 5 bratwursts is recommended for this recipe.
How long does it take to cook the bratwurst?
The bratwursts take approximately 20 minutes to cook through in the skillet (10 minutes per side).
What type of beer is best for this skillet?
Any type of beer can be used; you can choose based on your personal flavor preference.
Do I need to drain the sauerkraut?
Yes, ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained before adding it to the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
Can I substitute Swiss cheese with something else?
Yes, you can use other melting cheeses like Provolone or Gruyere if you prefer.
What kind of mustard should I use?
You can use any mustard of your choice, such as yellow, Dijon, or spicy brown mustard.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is designed as a quick dinner with minimal prep, taking about 30 minutes total.
How do I know when the bratwursts are done?
They are done when they are fully cooked through and have simmered in the beer for 20 minutes.
Should the skillet be covered during cooking?
Yes, cover the skillet while the bratwursts are simmering in the beer to ensure they cook evenly.
When do I add the cheese?
The Swiss cheese should be sprinkled over the top after the skillet is removed from the heat so it can melt gently.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served hot, ideally accompanied by crispy fried potatoes or your favorite side dish.
Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the beer with beef or chicken broth if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
How much beer is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of beer.
What is the cook time for the sauerkraut?
The sauerkraut and mustard should be heated through for about 3 to 5 minutes after being added to the skillet.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, the combination of savory meat, tangy cabbage, and melted cheese makes it a classic comfort food.
Can I use frozen bratwursts?
It is best to use thawed bratwursts to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
How much mustard should I add?
The recipe suggests using 1/4 cup of your favorite mustard.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Sautéed onions or bell peppers would be excellent additions to this skillet meal.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
The main ingredients are low-carb, but check the sugar content in your beer and mustard to ensure it meets keto requirements.
How many people does this recipe serve?
The recipe uses a standard 16-ounce pack of 5 bratwursts, typically serving 2 to 4 people depending on sides.
Can I use a cast iron skillet?
Yes, a large cast iron skillet is perfect for this recipe as it retains heat well.
Do I need to add oil to the pan?
No oil is specified as the bratwursts simmer in beer and release their own fats.
What should I do if the beer evaporates too fast?
If the liquid dries up before the 20 minutes are up, you can add a splash more beer or water.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, pre-shredded Swiss cheese works fine for easy melting.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can this be made in a slow cooker?
While designed for a skillet, you could adapt it for a slow cooker, though the cheese should still be added at the very end.
What does the beer do for the bratwurst?
The beer acts as a poaching liquid that infuses the meat with flavor and keeps it juicy during cooking.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish is savory and tangy, but you can make it spicy by using a hot mustard or adding red pepper flakes.