Are you dreaming of a delicious and effortless meal that's perfect for a chilly evening or a casual weekend gathering? Look no further! This recipe for slow cooker brats will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with more time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Forget about standing over a hot stove; this easy recipe lets your slow cooker do all the work, resulting in juicy, flavorful brats that are unbelievably tender. It's one of the best recipes for a quick dinner, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bratwurst (your favorite kind – we love a mix of spicy and sweet!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and green bell pepper. This is a great time to also put on some music or a podcast to make the cooking process more enjoyable!
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Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onion and green pepper at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, nestle the bratwurst sausages on top.
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Create the Flavorful Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
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Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce evenly over the brats and vegetables in the slow cooker.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the brats are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The internal temperature of the brats should reach 160°F (71°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the brats from the slow cooker and serve them on buns with your favorite toppings. We recommend sauerkraut, caramelized onions, and spicy mustard for an authentic German-style experience. The remaining sauce makes a fantastic dipping option too!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Slow Cooker Brats:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the brats and sauce to cook evenly.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or some dried thyme for an earthy flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Add potatoes or other root vegetables to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a more substantial meal.
- Serve with sides: These brats are delicious served with potato salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
Variations:
- Beer Brats: Substitute beer for the beef broth for a richer, maltier flavor.
- Spicy Brats: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
- Sweet and Savory Brats: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter and more caramelized flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This slow cooker brats recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for those nights when you want a delicious and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The easy-to-follow instructions and delicious results make it a perfect addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!