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Tender Slow Cooker Beer Brats Recipe Easy Homemade Peppers and Onions

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A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring beer-soaked bratwursts with caramelized peppers and onions, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bratwurst sausages (fresh, uncooked)
  • 12 ounces (355 ml) beer (lager, pilsner, or amber ale)
  • 2 large bell peppers (one red, one green), sliced into thin strips
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice 2 large bell peppers and 1 large yellow onion into thin strips. Mince 3 cloves of garlic. This takes about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and lightly caramelized—about 7 minutes.
  3. Lightly prick the bratwurst links a few times with a fork to prevent bursting during cooking. Leave them whole or slice into halves if preferred.
  4. Place the sautéed peppers and onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the bratwurst on top.
  5. Pour 12 ounces (355 ml) of beer over the brats and veggies. Stir in 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until brats are tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C).
  7. Once done, gently stir to mix flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  8. Serve on toasted buns with mustard and sauerkraut, or with mashed potatoes or a crisp salad.

Notes

Prick bratwurst before cooking to prevent bursting. Sauté peppers and onions before slow cooking for better flavor. Use malt-forward lager or amber ale; avoid hoppy IPAs. For a smoky finish, brown brats in a skillet or grill pan for 1-2 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning near the end. Substitute beer with chicken broth and apple cider vinegar for alcohol-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, beer brats, bratwurst, peppers and onions, easy dinner, comfort food, crockpot recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/tender-slow-cooker-beer-brats-recipe-easy-homemade-peppers-and-onions/