13 Best Bratwurst Toppings to Try This Year

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Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a game-day feast, or a cozy family dinner, choosing the right bratwurst toppings can completely change the experience. A simple sausage becomes something unforgettable with the perfect mix of fresh vegetables, savory sauces, melted cheese, and bold flavors.

This collection brings together creative ideas that suit every taste, from timeless favorites to unique combinations worth trying. If you’re ready to build a better bratwurst, these topping ideas will help you create a meal that’s packed with flavor and anything but ordinary.

1. Classic Bratwurst with Sauerkraut, Caramelized Onions, Mustard and Pickles

This classic bratwurst recipe brings together everything people love about a hearty German-style sausage meal: juicy bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, sweet onions, sharp mustard, and crisp pickles. It feels rich, satisfying, and easy to enjoy any day of the week, especially when you want something bold without a lot of fuss.

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Credit: budgetbytes.com

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: German-inspired
Equipment: Large skillet, tongs, spatula, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
  • 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 8 dill pickle slices
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly until soft, golden, and sweet, about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar near the end to deepen the flavor.
  2. In another pan or on a grill, cook the bratwurst until browned on all sides and fully heated through. Turn them often so they cook evenly.
  3. Warm the sauerkraut in a small saucepan or briefly in the skillet with the onions if you like extra flavor.
  4. Toast the brat buns lightly so they hold up better under the toppings.
  5. Place each bratwurst in a bun, then top with sauerkraut, caramelized onions, mustard, and pickle slices. Season with a little pepper if needed.
  6. Serve immediately while everything is hot and juicy.

Serve with: potato salad, German potato wedges, pretzels, or a simple cucumber salad.
Drink with: lager, pilsner, sparkling apple cider, or iced tea.

2. Bacon Wrapped Bratwurst

Bacon wrapped bratwurst is all about rich, smoky flavor with a crisp, savory finish. The bacon locks in moisture while adding a salty crunch, turning a simple brat into something extra special and crowd-pleasing.

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Credit: twopeasandtheirpod.com

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, rack, tongs, skillet or oven
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 8 slices bacon
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Wrap each bratwurst with two slices of bacon, slightly overlapping the bacon so it stays in place.
  2. Place the wrapped bratwurst on a rack over a baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with smoked paprika and black pepper.
  3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is crisp and the bratwurst is cooked through.
  4. For extra browning, broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely.
  5. Toast the buns with melted butter, then spread with mustard.
  6. Add the bratwurst to the buns and serve hot.

Serve with: coleslaw, baked beans, fries, or grilled corn.
Drink with: cold beer, lemonade, or a light soda.

3. Chili Cheese Bratwurst

This chili cheese bratwurst is messy in the best way, loaded with meaty chili and melted cheese for a big, comforting bite. It is the kind of meal that feels fun, filling, and perfect for game day or a casual dinner.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, saucepan, spoon, tongs
No. of ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 cups prepared chili
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • Sliced jalapeños, optional

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bratwurst in a skillet or grill until browned and fully heated.
  2. Warm the chili in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the diced onion, chili powder, and garlic powder if you want more depth.
  3. Toast the buns lightly so they do not get soggy.
  4. Place a bratwurst in each bun, then spoon chili generously over the top.
  5. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and let it melt from the heat of the chili.
  6. Finish with sour cream and jalapeños if you like extra kick.

Serve with: potato chips, onion rings, fries, or a crisp green salad.
Drink with: iced cola, amber ale, or sweet tea.

4. Beer Braised Bratwurst

Beer braised bratwurst is deep, savory, and full of layered flavor thanks to slow simmering in onions and beer. The result is tender sausage with a rich sauce that tastes comforting and a little rustic.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: German-inspired
Equipment: Large skillet or Dutch oven, tongs, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cups beer
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 4 brat buns
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, optional

Instructions:

  1. Heat butter and oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened and lightly golden.
  2. Add the bratwurst and brown them on all sides for better flavor.
  3. Pour in the beer, then stir in the mustard and caraway seeds. Reduce the heat and let everything simmer gently until the sausages are cooked through and the liquid reduces slightly.
  4. Remove the bratwurst and continue cooking the onions a few minutes longer if you want a thicker braising sauce.
  5. Toast the buns, then place the bratwurst inside and spoon some of the onions on top.
  6. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Serve with: pretzels, German potato salad, sauerkraut, or roasted potatoes.
Drink with: the same beer used for cooking, sparkling water, or apple cider.

5. Jalapeno Cheddar Bratwurst

Jalapeño cheddar bratwurst brings a playful mix of heat and creamy richness, making every bite bold and satisfying. The spicy peppers and melted cheese balance beautifully with the juicy sausage.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill or skillet, knife, cutting board, spoon
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 jalapeños, sliced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bratwurst on a grill or in a skillet until browned and fully cooked.
  2. In another pan, sauté the onion and jalapeños in oil until softened.
  3. Stir in the cream cheese and hot sauce, letting it melt into a creamy topping.
  4. Toast the buns lightly.
  5. Place each bratwurst in a bun, then add the jalapeño mixture and a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
  6. Serve right away while the cheese is soft and melty.

Serve with: corn on the cob, fries, tortilla chips, or macaroni salad.
Drink with: cold beer, lime soda, or mango lemonade.

6. Grilled Pepper and Onion Bratwurst

Grilled pepper and onion bratwurst has that simple, classic cookout feel that never gets old. Sweet peppers, soft onions, and smoky sausage come together for a colorful and satisfying meal.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American**
Equipment: Grill or skillet, tongs, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Toss the peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Grill or sauté the vegetables until tender and lightly charred.
  3. Cook the bratwurst on the grill or in a skillet until browned and heated through.
  4. Warm the buns briefly so they are soft but not dry.
  5. Add a bratwurst to each bun and pile on the peppers and onions.
  6. Serve hot with any extra vegetables on the side.

Serve with: grilled potatoes, slaw, chips, or a pasta salad.
Drink with: iced tea, beer, or sparkling lemonade.

7. BBQ Bratwurst

BBQ bratwurst is smoky, sticky, and full of that familiar backyard flavor people love. A good barbecue sauce gives the sausage a sweet-savory glaze that feels bold and satisfying from the first bite.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill or skillet, brush, tongs
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pickles, optional

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bratwurst on a grill or skillet until browned and hot throughout.
  2. Brush the sausages with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking so the sauce turns glossy and slightly sticky.
  3. In a small pan, warm the red onion with butter until softened.
  4. Toast the buns lightly.
  5. Place each bratwurst in a bun, spoon on extra barbecue sauce, and top with onions and pickles if desired.
  6. Serve while the glaze is still warm and shiny.

Serve with: baked beans, coleslaw, corn, or potato wedges.
Drink with: cola, beer, or sweet iced tea.

8. Apple Slaw Bratwurst

Apple slaw bratwurst feels fresh, crisp, and a little sweet, which makes it a nice contrast to the rich sausage. The crunchy slaw gives the sandwich a brighter, lighter finish without losing comfort-food appeal.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, mixing bowl, knife, cutting board, grater
No. of ingredients: 11

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 apples, julienned or grated
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 carrot, shredded
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Mix the cabbage, apple, carrot, mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill until ready to use.
  2. Cook the bratwurst in a skillet or on the grill until browned and cooked through.
  3. Toast the buns lightly.
  4. Place a bratwurst in each bun, then top with a generous scoop of apple slaw.
  5. Serve immediately so the slaw stays crisp.

Serve with: kettle chips, potato salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or pickles.
Drink with: hard cider, sparkling water, or lemonade.

9. Mushroom Swiss Bratwurst

Mushroom Swiss bratwurst is rich, cozy, and full of savory depth, like a comfort meal packed into a sandwich. Earthy mushrooms and creamy Swiss cheese make the brat feel hearty and polished at the same time.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, spatula, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon thyme

Instructions:

  1. Heat butter and oil in a skillet. Add onions and mushrooms, then cook until browned and tender. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the bratwurst separately until nicely browned and hot throughout.
  3. Place each bratwurst into a bun.
  4. Spoon the mushroom mixture over the top and add a slice of Swiss cheese.
  5. Let the cheese melt slightly before serving.

Serve with: roasted potatoes, green beans, French fries, or a simple salad.
Drink with: light beer, sparkling water, or iced tea.

10. Spicy Kimchi Bratwurst

Spicy kimchi bratwurst brings heat, tang, and a fun twist that feels modern and exciting. The fermented bite of kimchi cuts through the richness of the sausage and creates a sandwich with real personality.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: Fusion
Equipment: Skillet, tongs, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 1 cup kimchi, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons kimchi juice
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bratwurst in a skillet or on the grill until browned and hot.
  2. Warm the chopped kimchi in a pan for 1 to 2 minutes with the kimchi juice, just enough to take the chill off.
  3. Stir the mayonnaise with gochujang for a quick spicy sauce.
  4. Toast the buns lightly.
  5. Build each sandwich with bratwurst, warm kimchi, a drizzle of spicy sauce, sesame seeds, and green onions.
  6. Serve right away while everything is hot and bright.

Serve with: rice, cucumber salad, fries, or roasted vegetables.
Drink with: cold beer, green tea, or sparkling citrus water.

11. Pretzel Bun Bratwurst

Pretzel bun bratwurst feels extra satisfying because the soft, salty bread adds a chewy bakery-style touch. It is a simple upgrade that makes the whole sandwich taste more special and substantial.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: German-inspired
Equipment: Skillet or grill, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 pretzel buns
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • Pickle spears, optional

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bratwurst until browned and fully heated.
  2. Warm the onions in butter until soft, or use them raw for more crunch.
  3. Lightly toast the pretzel buns if needed.
  4. Spread mustard inside each bun.
  5. Add the bratwurst, then top with onions and pickle spears if you like.
  6. Finish with a pinch of coarse salt on the bun for extra pretzel flavor.

Serve with: potato salad, fries, chips, or sauerkraut.
Drink with: beer, root beer, or sparkling apple cider.

12. Garlic Herb Bratwurst

Garlic herb bratwurst leans into simple, fragrant flavors that make the sausage taste even more savory. Fresh herbs and garlic give it a clean, aromatic finish that works beautifully with a toasted bun.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, brush, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped thyme
  • 1 teaspoon chopped rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bratwurst in a skillet or on the grill until browned and cooked through.
  2. In a small pan, melt the butter with olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, and rosemary until fragrant.
  3. Brush the cooked bratwurst with the garlic herb butter for a glossy finish.
  4. Toast the buns lightly.
  5. Add each bratwurst to a bun and spoon a little extra herb butter over the top if desired.
  6. Serve warm with the herbs still fresh and aromatic.

Serve with: mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, salad, or grilled asparagus.
Drink with: white wine, lemonade, or sparkling water with lemon.

13. Avocado Salsa Bratwurst

Avocado salsa bratwurst is fresh, creamy, and lively, with a cool topping that balances the savory sausage beautifully. The avocado mixture adds brightness and a soft texture that makes every bite feel modern and satisfying.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Course: Main course
Cuisine: Fusion
Equipment: Skillet or grill, mixing bowl, spoon, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 11

Ingredients:

  • 4 bratwurst sausages
  • 4 brat buns
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomato
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
  • 1 small jalapeño, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Mix the avocados, tomato, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
  2. Cook the bratwurst on a grill or in a skillet until browned and hot.
  3. Warm or toast the buns lightly.
  4. Add a bratwurst to each bun, then top with a generous spoonful of avocado salsa.
  5. Serve immediately so the avocado stays fresh and bright.

Serve with: tortilla chips, Mexican rice, grilled corn, or black bean salad.
Drink with: agua fresca, lime soda, or a light beer.

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