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Oven Braised Beer Brats with Caramelized Onions

Oven beer braised brats with caramelized onions

This oven beer braised brats with caramelized onions recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Juicy bratwurst is slowly braised in beer alongside sweet, golden onions, creating a perfectly balanced dish that's ideal for any occasion. The hands-off oven method ensures tender, flavorful results every time.
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Equipment

  • Large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs
  • Aluminum foil (if needed)

Ingredients
  

  • 8 bratwurst sausages about 2 pounds
  • 4 large yellow onions sliced thick
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
  • 2 bottles 24 oz total German lager or your favorite beer
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme sprigs optional
  • 8 bratwurst buns for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Prepare the onions by peeling and slicing them into thick rings, about ¼-inch thick.
  • Heat the oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
  • Brown the bratwurst on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. Remove and set aside on a plate.
  • Add the sliced onions to the same pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly caramelize.
  • Add brown sugar to the onions and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions start to turn golden.
  • Pour in the beer slowly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  • Stir in the mustard, vinegar, bay leaves, and caraway seeds (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  • Return the bratwurst to the pot, nestling them among the onions.
  • Cover tightly with the lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
  • Braise for 45-60 minutes until the brats are cooked through and the onions are deeply caramelized and tender.
  • Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

Choose a beer you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will concentrate during cooking
Don't skip browning the brats – it adds essential flavor and color
The onions should be deeply golden and very tender when finished
Internal temperature of bratwurst should reach 160°F (71°C)