There’s something inherently celebratory about a perfectly grilled bratwurst. But what if we took that classic backyard hero and elevated it to legendary status? Enter the Cheese-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Brat. This isn’t just a brat; it’s an experience. Imagine a juicy bratwurst, bursting with molten cheese, all enveloped in a crispy, savory blanket of bacon. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will make your next barbecue unforgettable. Get ready to become the undisputed grill master!

Why I Love This Recipe

For me, grilling is about creating memorable moments and incredible flavors, and these cheese-stuffed, bacon-wrapped brats hit every single note. I love the surprise factor when guests bite into the cheesy center – it’s pure joy! The smoky bacon adds an extra layer of richness and a fantastic crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy brat. Plus, stuffing the brats allows you to customize the cheese to your liking, from sharp cheddar to spicy Monterey Jack. It’s a bold, flavorful twist on a backyard staple that guarantees rave reviews every time. Perfect for game day, a summer cookout, or just a truly indulgent weeknight meal.

List of Ingredients

• 6 raw bratwurst links (pork or beef)
• 6 slices thin-cut bacon
• 6 ounces cheese, cut into 6 equally sized sticks or planks (e.g., sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon your favorite dry rub (BBQ rub, garlic & herb, etc.)
• Optional: 6 hot dog buns or brat buns
• Optional: Your favorite condiments (mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions)
• Wooden toothpicks, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes (to prevent burning)

Swaps and Notes

• Bratwurst: While pork brats are classic, feel free to use beef brats or even chicken brats for a different flavor profile. Make sure they are raw and uncooked.
• Cheese: Use a cheese that melts well but also has good flavor. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a smoked gouda are excellent choices. Avoid overly crumbly cheeses. For a spicy kick, pepper jack is fantastic!
• Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best as it crisps up more easily and wraps more snugly. Thick-cut bacon can be harder to cook through without burning the brat.
• Seasoning: A good BBQ dry rub on the bacon before grilling adds an extra layer of flavor. Try one with a little sweetness and a hint of spice.
• Cooking Method: While grilling is preferred for smoky flavor and crispy bacon, you can also bake these in the oven (see tips below).

List of Steps for the Recipes

1. Prepare Brats: Carefully slice each raw bratwurst link lengthwise, almost all the way through, leaving about a half-inch intact at each end. You want to create a pocket for the cheese without splitting the brat entirely.
2. Stuff with Cheese: Gently open each bratwurst and insert one cheese stick or plank into the pocket. Press the bratwurst back around the cheese as much as possible to enclose it.
3. Wrap with Bacon: Take one slice of thin-cut bacon. Starting at one end of the cheese-stuffed brat, tightly wrap the bacon spirally around the entire bratwurst, overlapping slightly as you go. Secure the ends of the bacon with the pre-soaked wooden toothpicks (use 2-3 per brat as needed).
4. Season (Optional): If using, sprinkle your favorite dry rub evenly over the bacon-wrapped brats.
5. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-375°F / 175-190°C). For best results, aim for indirect heat if possible, or create a two-zone fire.
6. Grill the Brats: Place the bacon-wrapped brats on the grill. If using direct heat, turn them frequently to prevent burning the bacon and ensure even cooking. If using indirect heat, place them on the cooler side of the grill.
7. Cook to Perfection: Grill for approximately 20-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes, until the bacon is crispy, golden brown, and the internal temperature of the bratwurst reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the center (avoiding the cheese). The cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
8. Rest & Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the brats from the grill. Let them rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overstuff: While tempting, too much cheese can make it harder to wrap the brat and cause more cheese to ooze out during cooking.
• Thin Bacon is Best: As mentioned, thin-cut bacon crisps up more effectively without overcooking the brat.
• Monitor Temperature: A meat thermometer is your best friend here. It ensures the brats are cooked safely to 160°F (71°C) without drying them out.
• Indirect Heat (If Possible): If you have a two-zone grill setup, start the brats over indirect heat to cook them through and crisp the bacon, then move them briefly to direct heat for a final crisp if needed. This helps prevent the bacon from burning before the brat is fully cooked.
• Soak Toothpicks: This simple step prevents your toothpicks from catching fire on the grill.
• Oven Method: No grill? No problem! Bake the brats on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature is reached.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These incredible brats are hearty enough to be the star of any meal. Serve them on toasted brat buns with classic toppings like grainy mustard, caramelized onions, or even some tangy sauerkraut. For sides, think classic barbecue fare:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Potato salad
• Baked beans
• Corn on the cob

For another amazing party food that features delicious cheesy goodness, try my Crockpot Nacho Dip – it’s always a hit! And if you’re looking for another savory appetizer, my Beer Cheese Dip is fantastic for a crowd.

Storage and Leftover Tips

These cheese-stuffed bacon-wrapped brats are definitely best enjoyed hot off the grill. The bacon will lose its crispness and the cheese its gooeyness if stored. If you do have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to help re-crisp the bacon and warm the cheese, checking the internal temperature for doneness.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the creativity and flavor of these brats, here are a few more recipes that bring the fun and deliciousness to your table:

• For another fantastic crowd-pleaser that reimagines a classic, check out my Totchos (Tater Tot Nachos)!
• Planning a get-together? My Walking Taco Bar is an effortless way to feed a crowd.
• And for a sweet ending after all that savory goodness, my Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is always a comforting classic.

Final Thoughts

These Cheese-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Brats are a testament to the fact that sometimes, more is more. The combination of juicy bratwurst, molten cheese, and crispy bacon creates an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe. So fire up that grill, grab your brats, and prepare for a truly spectacular meal. I can’t wait to hear how much you love them! Share your experiences and favorite cheese choices in the comments below, and be sure to follow Chef Maniac for more epic recipes!