Beer Brats with Apples and Onions: A Savory One-Pan Dinner Full of Flavor
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that screams cozy pub fare, these Beer Brats are exactly what you need. Baked in the oven with sweet apples, caramelized onions, and a hint of Dijon mustard, they’re infused with rich beer flavor that makes every bite juicy and delicious. It’s the kind of rustic, stick-to-your-ribs dish that’s perfect for fall dinners, game day spreads, or casual family nights.
Why I Love This Recipe
Beer brats are often grilled, but this oven-baked version is ultra-flavorful and hands-off once it’s in the oven. The slow caramelization of the onions, apples, and peppers adds sweetness, while the beer and beef broth create a savory sauce the brats soak up as they bake. It’s one-pan cooking at its finest—with barely any cleanup and tons of taste.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 sliced green pepper
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 bratwursts
- 1 cup beer (lager or amber works great)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Swaps and Notes
- Use chicken or turkey brats for a lighter version.
- Swap apples for pears for a sweeter twist.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Cook Veggies: Add onions, green pepper, and apples. Cook for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Brats: Nestle the bratwursts among the veggies.
- Pour Liquids: Add beer and beef broth to mostly cover the brats. Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Bring mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then transfer the skillet uncovered to the oven.
- Roast: Bake for 45 minutes, until the brats are fully cooked and infused with flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use a good quality beer—it makes a difference! Amber ales or lagers are ideal.
- Make sure the brats are nestled in but not completely submerged, so they brown beautifully on top.
- Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these beer brats with crusty rolls, mashed potatoes, or even over buttered egg noodles. For snacks or side dishes:
- Crockpot Nacho Dip for pre-dinner snacking
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fun, crowd-pleasing second course
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole for a meal prep-style weeknight rotation
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven. These also make great sandwich fillings for the next day!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons – A perfect appetizer before the main event
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – End the meal on a sweet, rich note
Final Thoughts
These Beer Brats with Apples and Onions are everything you want from comfort food: savory, sweet, juicy, and totally satisfying. Whether it’s Oktoberfest or just a weeknight dinner, this dish brings the flavor and heartiness to the table.
Tried it? Let me know how it turned out—and don’t forget to follow for more cozy, crave-worthy meals! 🍺🥘
