Grilled bratwurst is a simple and delicious dish, perfect for a barbecue or a casual dinner. This recipe will guide you through the process of grilling savory sausages to perfection.
Bratwurst is a type of German sausage typically made from pork, beef, or veal. It’s seasoned with a blend of spices such as nutmeg, caraway, ginger, or coriander and is either grilled, pan-fried, or simmered.
Unlike some sausages that are smoked or dried, bratwurst is usually fresh and must be cooked before eating. It also has a distinct seasoning profile and often uses a coarser grind of meat.
It’s typically grilled or pan-fried, often after being simmered in beer or broth to enhance flavor and juiciness.
Boiling is not necessary but often recommended to ensure the sausage is cooked through evenly. Simmering in beer and onions before grilling is a popular method for added flavor and moisture.
Bratwurst is commonly served in a bun with mustard and sauerkraut, or as part of a platter with potatoes, cabbage, or pretzels. In Germany, regional variations influence how it’s prepared and served.
Classic toppings include mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions, and pickles. In the U.S., it’s common to serve bratwurst in a bun like a hot dog.
Most traditional bratwursts are gluten-free, but always check the label or ask the butcher to confirm, especially if breadcrumbs or beer are included in the recipe

Ingredients
- 4 bratwurst sausages preferably uncooked
- 4 hot dog buns or other type of sandwich rolls
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1/4 cup mustard your choice of yellow or spicy mustard
- 1/4 cup sauerkraut optional
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the bratwurst sausages on the grill.
- Grill the sausages for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
- If using, grill the sliced onion alongside the sausages until softened and slightly charred.
- Toast the buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Serve the grilled bratwurst in buns topped with mustard, onions, and sauerkraut if desired.
Nutrition









I used chicken bratwurst instead, turned out good… not as good as pork tho.
Pork bratwurst is definitely the classic choice, but chicken can work too. Did you add anything else to it? Just curious!
Glad to hear it turned out good! Chicken bratwurst is a great alternative for those who want a leaner option. Just gotta keep trying until you find the best combo!
Grilled onions are the best part! Yum! Also sauerkraut is a must! ✨
Onions are good but I’m telling you, ketchup is better than mustard! 😜
I totally agree! Grilled onions add so much flavor! But sauerkraut? I’m not a fan myself. 🤷♂️
I don’t know… I feel like bratwurst should be boiled first. Is grilling legit?
Grilling is totally legit! Boiling just makes them soggy. Trust me, grilled bratwurst are way better!
Brats?! Where I’m from we eat hot dogs… this ain’t for us.
Hot dogs are great too! But you gotta try brats, they’re way better on a grill! 😋
Ugh, I don’t know about this brat business… Sounds weird. Where’s the ketchup?
lol why do people need instructions for grilling sausages? Just throw ’em on the fire! 🔥
These bratwurst are just awesome! My family loved them. Will definitely make again.
Grilling onions is a must! Adds a nice sweetness to the bratwurst. Yummy!
I totally agree! Grilled onions are the best! They make everything taste better. I always add extra, lol.
Grilling onions? Really? I never thought of that… sounds kinda odd to me but maybe worth a try?
Easiest recipe ever. I made these for my BBQ and everybody devoured them. Thanks!
Wasn’t too impressed. The recipe just felt kinda plain with nothing special about it. Maybe try adding some spices?
Delicious! I’m gonna make this every weekend!
That’s awesome! Bratwursts are the best on the grill! Can’t wait for summer BBQs!
Every weekend? Really? You won’t get tired of it? Kinda sounds boring after a while…
Idk, I think this recipe is too simple. I need more flavors, like garlic or herbs.
Bratwurst is overrated. I mean, it’s just sausage in a bun, right? 🤷♂️
Just a sausage? You must’ve had some bad bratwurst! They can be so juicy and tasty if made right! 🔥
I get where you’re coming from, but there’s something special about the smoky flavor of grilled bratwurst. It’s just not the same as a regular sausage! 😋
Sooo good!! I used spicy mustard and added jalapeños. Perfect for my BBQ!
This is not how you make bratwurst! Real ones are boiled before grilling! Just saying!
10/10 would recommend! Even my kids loved it!
Glad to hear that! Kids can be picky eaters, so that’s awesome!
Absolutely loved it! The bratwurst turned out so juicy and flavorful. Will make again for sure!
It was okay but I prefer my hot dogs. I guess I’m not a fan of bratwurst after all.