Craving an unforgettable handheld meal that bursts with flavor in every single bite? Look no further than these incredible Bratwurst Sliders. Marrying the robust, savory taste of classic German sausage with the tangy kick of mustard kraut and the comforting embrace of melty sharp cheddar, all perfectly nestled within soft, chewy pretzel buns, these sliders are a culinary triumph. Whether you’re gearing up for a lively party, seeking a quick yet satisfying lunch, or searching for an appetizer that will truly impress any crowd, these delectable sliders are destined to become your new favorite go-to recipe.
The Ultimate Game Day & Party Appetizer: Easy Bratwurst Sliders
When it comes to winning over guests with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness, these Bratwurst Sliders with Mustard Kraut are your ultimate MVP. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; with just a handful of simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, these flavorful mini-sandwiches are ready to impress. They’re the quintessential choice for football parties, spirited game day gatherings, or any casual get-together where you want to serve something truly special without the stress. Their convenient size and universally loved flavors make them an instant hit, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a taste of hearty, German-inspired goodness.
Why These Brat Sliders with Kraut Stand Out
These aren’t just any sliders; they are a celebration of rich, savory flavors, designed to be a year-round favorite. While perfect for major events like the Super Bowl or a backyard tailgate, their hearty appeal makes them suitable for any occasion where a satisfying, handheld meal is desired. The combination of succulent bratwurst, vibrant sauerkraut, and sharp cheddar cheese delivers a symphony of tastes that is both deeply comforting and excitingly robust, reminiscent of classic German pub fare. Every element plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and utterly delicious experience that will have everyone reaching for more.
This recipe proudly features Frank’s Kraut, a brand I’ve cherished my entire life. My passion for their delicious sauerkraut and the opinions shared here are entirely my own.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Bratwurst Slider on Pretzel Buns
What sets these Bratwurst Sliders on Pretzel Buns apart from the ordinary? It’s the meticulous selection of ingredients that creates a truly harmonious flavor profile. Each component is chosen for its ability to elevate the overall experience, turning a simple slider into a gourmet delight. The star of the show, beyond the juicy bratwurst, is Frank’s new Mustard Kraut, which introduces a distinctive zesty twist that perfectly complements the rich sausage. Paired with sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, tangy layer and the unique texture of soft pretzel buns, these sliders offer a delightful blend of salty, savory, and tangy notes that are incredibly addictive.
If you adore these savory Brat Sliders, you’re sure to find a new favorite among these other delicious recipes: Hawaiian Pork Sliders, Roast Beef Sliders, Breakfast Sliders, and Italian Meatloaf Sliders. Each offers a unique spin on the slider concept, perfect for expanding your party menu or simply enjoying a variety of handheld delights.
A Heritage of Flavor: Celebrating Frank’s Kraut
For me, sauerkraut is more than just a condiment; it’s a profound connection to my heritage. Growing up with Polish and German roots, Frank’s Kraut was a constant presence at our family table. It was an essential part of our culinary traditions, a staple that elevated every meal. Holiday hams were never truly complete without a generous serving of smoked Polish sausage paired with Frank’s Kraut. Similarly, hot dogs and bratwursts felt incomplete, almost “naked,” without their tangy kraut companion. This enduring love for Frank’s Kraut has shaped my cooking and my family’s enjoyment of food for decades.
It feels like a full circle journey to now be celebrating my tenth year as a brand ambassador for Frank’s Kraut in 2025. Over the past decade, I’ve had the immense pleasure of developing countless sauerkraut-inspired recipes, sharing my passion with long-time followers who have come to appreciate the versatility and deliciousness of this humble yet powerful ingredient. This partnership allows me to blend my family’s culinary history with innovative new dishes, bringing the flavors I grew up with to a wider audience.
Discovering the Zest of Frank’s Mustard Kraut
Among Frank’s outstanding range of products, their Frank’s Mustard Kraut has captured my heart—and my refrigerator—as a permanent fixture. This innovative product quickly became my absolute favorite, especially during peak grilling season. Its unique and complex flavor profile instantly elevated every dish it touched, transforming ordinary meals into something extraordinary. This isn’t just sauerkraut; it’s an experience.
What makes this Mustard Kraut so exceptionally special is its brilliant fusion of Frank’s classic sauerkraut with a lively, zesty mustard and a subtle hint of dill pickle. The moment I tried it, I knew I had found a culinary match made in heaven. It proved to be the perfect accompaniment to my Turkey Reuben sandwich and an indispensable topping for my Breaded Pork Cutlet recipe. The delightful balance of tang, spice, and freshness it brings is simply unparalleled, making it an ideal secret ingredient for these irresistible Bratwurst Sliders.
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Bratwurst Sliders
Crafting these delicious Pretzel Bun Brat Sliders requires just a few key ingredients, each chosen to contribute to the overall savory and tangy experience:
- Hawaiian Pretzel Bun Sliders: These soft, slightly salty buns provide the perfect foundation for our sliders. Their unique texture and subtle sweetness beautifully complement the savory fillings. If unavailable, traditional slider buns or Hawaiian rolls make excellent substitutes.
- Bratwurst: We remove the casings to easily form them into patties, ensuring a tender and uniform texture. For an adventurous kick, try spicy bratwurst, or opt for ground turkey for a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A crucial element, sharp cheddar delivers a rich, tangy depth that perfectly melts over the warm bratwurst. For those who love heat, pepper jack offers an exciting kick, while mild cheddar can be used for a less intense flavor.
- Frank’s Mustard Kraut: The secret weapon! This brings a vibrant, zesty, and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the bratwurst. If Frank’s Mustard Kraut isn’t accessible, regular high-quality sauerkraut can be used, though you might consider adding a touch of Dijon mustard for a similar zesty profile.
- Butter or Mayonnaise: A light spread on the top buns before baking adds a beautiful golden finish and enhances the overall richness and moisture of the sliders.
How to Prepare Easy Bratwurst Sliders with Mustard Kraut
Follow these simple steps to create a batch of these irresistible Bratwurst Sliders:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will be where your assembled sliders will bake to golden perfection.
Next, carefully remove the casings from your bratwurst. In a large bowl, gently combine the sausage meat and form it into nine uniform patties, roughly the size of your slider buns. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the brat patties for approximately 7 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are beautifully golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease, ensuring your sliders aren’t overly oily.
Now, it’s time for assembly! Carefully separate the Hawaiian pretzel buns and place the bottom halves into your prepared baking dish. Lay a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of each bottom bun, creating a deliciously melty base for your slider.
Next, place one perfectly browned brat patty on top of each cheese-covered bun. Generously spoon Frank’s Mustard Kraut over each brat patty, ensuring that every slider gets a generous helping of that tangy, zesty goodness.
Finally, spread a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on the inside of the top slider buns. Place these buttered tops over the kraut-topped patties. Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melty and the pretzel buns are lightly golden and warmed through. Serve these irresistible sliders immediately while they’re hot and fresh!
Any leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until thoroughly warmed.
Love It? Pin It for Later!
If you’re as smitten with this easy and delicious Brat Slider recipe as we are, make sure it’s always at your fingertips! Don’t forget to save it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you navigate away. It’s the perfect way to keep this crowd-pleaser handy for your next gathering!
Creative Substitutions and Exciting Variations for Your Sliders
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful Bratwurst Sliders to suit your personal taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ways to make them uniquely yours:
- Sausage Swaps: Experiment with different types of sausage for varied flavor profiles. Italian sausage will add a savory, herbaceous note, while chorizo can introduce a smoky, spicy Spanish flair. You could even try chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, don’t hesitate to explore other cheese varieties. Swiss or provolone will offer a milder, nutty flavor. For an extra layer of indulgence and unique texture, consider using my homemade sauerkraut cheddar cheese sauce, which can mimic a rich beer cheese sauce and provides an incredibly creamy topping.
- Flavor Boosters: Elevate the complexity of your sliders by adding caramelized onions. Their sweet, slow-cooked richness provides a wonderful counterpoint to the tangy kraut and savory bratwurst. A touch of whole-grain mustard directly on the bun can also add an extra layer of pungency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bratwurst Sliders
Here are answers to some common questions about making these delicious Bratwurst Sliders:
- Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Absolutely! You can fully prepare and assemble the sliders without baking, then cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving to ensure they are warm, fresh, and gooey. This is a fantastic time-saver for party planning!
- What’s the best method for cooking bratwurst patties? For these sliders, browning the bratwurst patties in a skillet over medium heat is ideal. This method creates a wonderfully flavorful, caramelized exterior while ensuring the patties cook through evenly to the proper internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It also allows you to control the doneness and prevents them from drying out.
- Can I grill these sliders instead of baking them? Yes, you certainly can for a delicious smoky flavor! Grill your brat patties until fully cooked. Then, assemble the sliders and briefly warm them on the grill, perhaps wrapped in foil, just until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly toasted. This adds an extra layer of flavor perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sliders
Elevate your Bratwurst Sliders from great to absolutely exceptional with these pro tips:
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your bratwurst patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This guarantees safe eating and perfectly cooked sausage every time.
- Avoid Crowding: When browning the patties in the skillet, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. Cooking them in batches if necessary ensures each patty gets a beautiful, even sear and prevents them from steaming instead of browning.
- Let Flavors Meld: After baking, allow the sliders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the cheese to set slightly and all the wonderful flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious bite.
More Irresistible Recipes to Love for Any Occasion
Looking for even more delectable ideas for football season, casual entertaining, or just satisfying meals? Explore these other fantastic recipes from our collection:
Start your party spread with my festive Touchdown Snack Mix (pictured above), a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For a cheesy, savory dip, you can’t go wrong with Philly Cheese Steak Dip. If you love a spicy twist on a classic, try our Jalapeño Pigs in a Blanket, or savor the hearty goodness of my Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs!
Specifically searching for tailgate recipes that feature our beloved Frank’s Kraut? You’ll definitely want to check out these before you go: Hot Dogs and Smoky BBQ Kraut, the incredibly creamy Sauerkraut Bacon & Swiss Dip, ingenious Reuben Style Tortilla Roll Ups, or the epic Reuben Burger! For a complete dive into all things sauerkraut, explore all of my Sauerkraut Recipes and read more about its history and versatility right here on my blog.
Still hungry for more sauerkraut inspiration? Find oodles more mouth-watering recipes directly at FranksKraut.com. Be sure to follow them on their social media channels to stay updated on even more yummy goodness: Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest and Twitter.
Your Game Day MVP: Irresistible Bratwurst Sliders
These Bratwurst Sliders are more than just a recipe; they are a true game-day game-changer. Designed for ease, bursting with a complex blend of savory and tangy flavors, and guaranteed to have your guests clamoring for seconds, they represent the pinnacle of satisfying party food. So, fire up that skillet, gather your ingredients, and prepare to score big with these undeniably irresistible sliders!
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Print Recipe
Bratwurst Sliders with Mustard Kraut
5 minutes
15 minutes
Sandwiches
American
brats, Bratwurst, Frank’s kraut, mustard kraut, pretzel buns, Sauerkraut, sliders,
9
servings
115
kcal
Ingredients
-
1
(11 ounce)
package Hawaiian Pretzel Bun Sliders -
1
(19 ounce)
package bratwurst, casings removed -
9
slices
cracker cut sized sharp cheddar cheese -
½
(16 ounce)
jar Frank’s Mustard Kraut - Butter or mayo
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place the bottom half of the slider buns in a 9×9 baking dish.
- Combine the skinless bratwurst in a bowl, and form into 9 patties. Brown the patties in a large skillet over medium heat for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time.
- Place one piece of cheese on each of the bottom buns, and top with a brat patty. Divide the kraut among the 9 patties, placing a little bit on top of each.
- Spread butter or mayo on the inside of the top slider buns and place them on top of the sauerkraut.
- Bake for 7-8 minutes or until the cheese is melty.
- Serve hot.
Notes
Nutrition
Serving:
1
serving
|
Calories:
115
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
1
g
|
Protein:
7
g
|
Fat:
10
g
|
Saturated Fat:
5
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
0.3
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
2
g
|
Cholesterol:
28
mg
|
Sodium:
187
mg
|
Potassium:
22
mg
|
Fiber:
0.001
g
|
Sugar:
0.1
g
|
Vitamin A:
281
IU
|
Vitamin C:
0.02
mg
|
Calcium:
198
mg
|
Iron:
0.1
mg