When comfort food season rolls around—or any time you’re craving a hearty, rustic dish with a gourmet twist—this Apple & Onion Bratwurst Bake delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights, Oktoberfest-style dinners, or cozy weekends, this one-pan meal combines juicy bratwursts, caramelized onions, and sweet apples simmered in a savory beer and broth sauce. The result? A crowd-pleasing dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether you’re a fan of German-inspired cuisine or just love the sweet-and-savory combo of apples and sausage, this baked bratwurst skillet is bound to become a household favorite.
- One Pan, Full Flavor: Everything cooks together in one skillet or Dutch oven—less mess, more flavor!
- Sweet & Savory Perfection: Apples and onions caramelize to create a rich base that complements the savory bratwurst.
- Versatile and Customizable: Switch up the sausages, add potatoes, or toss in fresh herbs for your own twist.
- Perfect for Fall and Winter: This dish screams comfort food and pairs beautifully with a cold beer or crusty bread.
🛒 Ingredients for Apple & Onion Bratwurst Bake
To make this dish for 6 servings, you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 bratwursts (uncooked, traditional or beer brats)
- 1 cup beer (lager or your favorite brew)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Optional additions: Add sliced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a complete one-pan meal.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, you’re already ahead of the game—no need for extra dishes!
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions and Apples
In your large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and apples, and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft, golden, and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Brats
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Nestle the bratwursts into the onion-apple mixture.
Step 4: Pour and Simmer
Pour in the beer and beef broth, making sure the sausages are mostly submerged. Stir in the Dijon mustard, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Bake
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop, then transfer the skillet to the oven, uncovered. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the bratwursts are fully cooked and browned.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side of sauerkraut.
🔥 Cooking Tips and Variations
- Beer Substitute: If you prefer not to use beer, substitute with more beef broth or apple cider for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream in the last 5 minutes of baking for a rich finish.
- Add Veggies: Toss in carrots or parboiled baby potatoes before baking to bulk up the meal.
🧾 Nutrition & Serving Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
🍽 What to Serve with Bratwurst and Apples
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- German-style Sauerkraut
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes
- Braised Red Cabbage
- Pretzel Rolls
- German Beer or Apple Cider
🧡 Final Thoughts
This Apple & Onion Bratwurst Bake is a flavor-packed, cozy dish that brings rustic charm to your dinner table. Whether you’re celebrating Oktoberfest or just in the mood for a simple yet hearty meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Easy, delicious, and full of warm, comforting notes—what’s not to love?
Ready to dig in? Save this recipe and share it with your fellow food lovers! 🍏🌭
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