Print

Best Oktoberfest Bratwurst Skillet – Easy 30-Minute Meal

oktoberfest bratwurst skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

This quick Oktoberfest bratwurst and sauerkraut skillet is a one-pan wonder ready in 30 minutes. With caramelized onions, apples, and a savory-sweet sauerkraut mixture, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bratwurst links (fresh or thawed)
  • 1 (14-ounce) jar or can sauerkraut, drained but not rinsed
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium apple (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup Oktoberfest beer or amber lager (or apple cider/chicken broth)
  • 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Slice the onion thinly, dice the apple into small cubes, and drain the sauerkraut well. Pat the bratwurst dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat the skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and get foamy.
  3. Brown the bratwurst: Add the brats to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown all over. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Cook the onions and apples: Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onion and diced apple. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and starting to caramelize.
  5. Add the beer and deglaze: Pour in the ½ cup of beer and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 1 minute.
  6. Add the sauerkraut, brown sugar, and caraway seeds: Stir in the drained sauerkraut, brown sugar, and caraway seeds until well combined.
  7. Return the brats to the skillet: Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the sauerkraut mixture. Spoon some of the mixture over the top.
  8. Simmer everything together: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the brats are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
  9. Rest and serve: Let the skillet rest off the heat for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve straight from the skillet.

Notes

Don’t crowd the pan when browning the brats to ensure a good sear. If the sauerkraut mixture looks dry, add a splash more beer or water. Go easy on the salt since brats and sauerkraut are already salty. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Oktoberfest, bratwurst, sauerkraut, skillet, 30-minute meal, one-pan, German, game day, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://zestynora.com/best-oktoberfest-bratwurst-skillet-easy-30-minute-meal/