Print

Cozy German Bratwurst Skillet: Best 30-Minute Dinner

german bratwurst skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and comforting one-skillet meal featuring juicy bratwurst, tender apples, and tangy sauerkraut, all simmered together in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bratwurst links (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 14–16 oz sauerkraut, drained
  • 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced into ½-inch wedges
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into thin half-rings
  • ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Slice the onion into thin half-rings. Core the apples and cut into ½-inch wedges. Drain the sauerkraut in a colander (rinse lightly if desired). Pat the bratwurst dry with paper towels.
  2. Brown the bratwurst: Heat 1 tablespoon butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Use tongs to flip; do not pierce the skins.
  3. Remove and rest the brats: Transfer the browned brats to a plate and set aside. Leave the browned bits in the pan.
  4. Sauté the onions: Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until soft and golden, scraping up the browned bits. Add a splash of broth if the pan seems dry.
  5. Add the apples and caraway: Stir in the apple wedges and caraway seeds. Cook for about 3 minutes until the apples begin to soften at the edges.
  6. Add the sauerkraut and broth: Stir in the drained sauerkraut and pour in the ½ cup of broth. Mix until well combined.
  7. Return the brats to the pan: Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the skillet, pushing them into the sauerkraut mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid or foil. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes.
  8. Check for doneness: Ensure the brats are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C for pork). If not, cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The apples should be tender but not falling apart.
  9. Rest and serve: Remove the lid and let rest for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a sweeter twist, swap the broth for apple cider or dark beer. To reduce sauerkraut tang, rinse it lightly before using. The dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: bratwurst skillet, German dinner, 30-minute meal, sauerkraut, apples, one-pan dinner, comfort food, Oktoberfest

Find it online: https://spoonluma.com/cozy-german-bratwurst-skillet-best-30-minute-dinner/