Are you tired of having the same old leftovers from your summer BBQs or Oktoberfest celebrations? Look no further! With a little creativity, those pesky leftover brats can be transformed into a whole new world of flavors. From breakfast to dinner and even snacks in between, we’ve got 20 creative recipes that will make you rethink what’s possible with bratwurst.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from hearty hashes and casseroles to savory stir-fries and soups. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something more substantial to impress your friends and family, these recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative, and breathe new life into those leftover brats!
Bratwurst Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a hearty German-inspired breakfast that combines the flavors of bratwurst, potatoes, and eggs. This Bratwurst Breakfast Hash is a twist on traditional hash browns, adding spicy sausage for a boost of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bratwurst sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the potatoes, onion, and garlic until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Create four wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
5. Return the bratwurst sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the potato mixture and eggs.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bratwurst and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional Bratwurst sausage with the crisp sweetness of cabbage, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Bratwurst sausage
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the Bratwurst into 1-inch pieces and add to the pan; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage and stir-fry until it begins to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle caraway seeds on top for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Bratwurst and Cabbage Stir-Fry!
Bratwurst and Potato Skillet
This recipe combines the classic German sausage with tender potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, creating a satisfying one-pot meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausages
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bratwurst sausages and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
3. Add the diced potatoes, sliced onions, and bell peppers. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bratwurst Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this savory combination of juicy bratwurst, caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
4. Top with tomato sauce, caramelized onions, and sliced bratwurst.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Bean Chili
This flavorful chili combines the savory taste of bratwurst sausage with the comforting warmth of beans, creating a perfect blend for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bratwurst sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cooked kidney beans, beef broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the bratwurst sausage to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bratwurst Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the savory flavors of bratwurst with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bratwurst over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the bratwurst mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Casserole
This Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Casserole is a comforting twist on traditional German flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering. The combination of savory bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook bratwurst over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked bratwurst, sauerkraut mixture, milk, and butter.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Add the brattywurst mixture to the prepared dish; top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bratwurst Pasta Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on the classic Alfredo dish, featuring savory bratwurst and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb. bratwurst sausages, sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced bratwurst and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove bratwurst from the skillet and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pan.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
5. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the creamy sauce and toss until well coated.
6. Return bratwurst slices to the skillet and combine with the pasta.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bratwurst and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of bratwurst and melted cheese. This unique combination is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the bratwurst into 1-inch pieces and cook in the skillet until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, melt 1/4 cup of cheese over medium heat.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet with melted cheese and top with cooked bratwurst, onion, and bell peppers.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bratwurst and Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Elevate your breakfast game with this savory sandwich featuring juicy bratwurst, crispy eggs, and melted cheese on a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 Bratwurst sausage
– 2 large eggs
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of white bread (or brioche)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the bratwurst for about 5 minutes on each side, until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, crack in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula until they’re cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Butter one side of each bread slice.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cooked bratwurst on each bread slice, topping with scrambled eggs, and finishing with a slice of cheddar cheese.
6. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Bratwurst and Vegetable Soup
This classic German-inspired soup is a perfect blend of savory bratwurst, tender vegetables, and rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced bratwurst over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bratwurst Shepherd’s Pie
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Germany with the comfort of a traditional shepherd’s pie. With bratwurst, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook bratwurst according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add sauerkraut and cook until heated through.
4. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in butter until melted.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bratwurst and Macaroni Bake
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Germany with a classic pasta bake, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sliced bratwurst until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, combine milk and butter; stir until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, bratwurst mixture, and cheese in a large mixing bowl. Pour in milk mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bratwurst and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of classic bratwurst with the warmth of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bratwurst slices over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and butter until smooth.
4. Add the corn kernels to the milk mixture and stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked bratwurst slices in the bottom.
6. Pour the milk-corn mixture over the sausage, followed by half of the cornbread mix.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cornbread mix on top.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Spinach Quiche
This quiche combines the savory flavors of German bratwurst with the nutrients of fresh spinach, perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch. The caramelized onions add a sweet and depth to this dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of bratwurst sausage
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bratwurst sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked bratwurst, spinach leaves, and grated cheese.
6. Add the egg mixture to the pie crust and top with the caramelized onions.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful twist on classic comfort food, this recipe combines juicy bratwurst with crispy sweet potato hash for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, cook bratwurst sausages in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning frequently, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked bratwurst and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve bratwurst sausages on top of sweet potato hash and garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Mushroom Risotto
Get ready to savor a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the best of German and Italian cuisines! This Bratwurst and Mushroom Risotto recipe is a perfect blend of savory sausage and creamy rice, topped with crispy onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausages
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook bratwurst sausages according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add warmed broth and wine (if using), stirring continuously until liquid is absorbed. Repeat process until rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Slice cooked bratwurst sausages into thick rounds. Serve on top of risotto, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bratwurst and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the savory flavors of bratwurst with the sweetness of zucchini, making for a deliciously unique snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, sliced bratwurst, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, and milk. Mix well.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes.
Bratwurst and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew combines the flavors of Germany and the Mediterranean, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. Sausage-lovers and lentil enthusiasts alike will appreciate this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausages
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the bratwurst sausages and cook for an additional 5 minutes, browning on all sides.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bratwurst and Cheese Stuffed Pretzels
These savory pretzels combine the flavors of bratwurst, cheese, and pretzel dough for a delicious snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pretzel dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 bratwurst sausages, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– Sesame seeds and poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out pretzel dough to desired thickness. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. Place a slice of bratwurst in the center of each piece, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
4. Fold dough over filling, forming a ball shape, and press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with melted butter and top with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover brat recipes! From classic dishes to innovative twists, these 20 delicious recipes will inspire you to reuse and recycle. Turn brats into breakfast favorites like hash or sandwiches, stir-fry them with cabbage, or add them to hearty stews and casseroles. Even try using them in sweet treats like quesadillas or stuffed pretzels. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a brat recipe here for you!
