Grilling season is here, and it’s time to turn up the heat with a recipe that’s guaranteed to steal the show. Forget the same-old burgers and dogs; this year, it’s all about Bratwurst Burgers topped with spicy slaw that packs a flavorful punch. These juicy brat patties bring a rich, savory twist to your backyard cookout, perfectly balanced by a tangy, beer-kissed slaw bursting with color and crunch.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for a fresh crowd-pleaser, this recipe checks all the boxes: easy to prep, big on bold flavor, and totally unexpected. Serve them up on toasted slider buns for party-ready bites, or go full-size for a dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? You can make the slaw ahead of time, so all that’s left to do is fire up the grill, crack open a cold one, and enjoy the ultimate brat burger experience.
Ready to make this summer deliciously unforgettable? Let’s get grilling!
Ingredients for the Best Bratwurst Burgers
- 10 TBS bratwurst sausages (uncooked)
- Large slider buns (or hamburger buns)
Ingredients for the Spicy Slaw:
- 4 cups of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green pepper (or red or yellow!), diced
- 1/2 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup light beer or your favorite IPA
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons of hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt
- 3/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Directions for Bratwurst Burgers:
Prepare the Spicy Slaw.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with the chopped onion and diced bell pepper.
Next, place all of the other slaw seasoning ingredients into a small saucepan.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Carefully pour the hot dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—letting it sit overnight will give the best flavor.
Prepare the Bratwurst.
When you’re ready to grill, remove the bratwurst from the casings and shape the meat into small patties.
Grill the Bratwurst Burgers.
Prepare your grill to about 400°F.
Once your grill is hot, dip a folded paper towel in cooking oil and, using long-handled tongs, rub it over the grate to coat it well.
Place the brat patties on the grill and cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
To toast the buns, lay them cut-side down over direct heat with the lid open. Grill for about 30 seconds, or until they’re golden brown and slightly crisp.
Finish by placing a bratwurst burger on each toasted bun, topping with a generous scoop of slaw, and serving immediately.
The Butcher Shop Makes Backyard Grilling Better
Ready to make this your tastiest summer yet with more recipes like Bratwurst Burgers? At The Butcher Shop, we’ve got everything you need to bring these bold Bratwurst Burgers to life—from premium brat sausages to fresh produce for that irresistible spicy slaw. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just firing up the grill for family night, we have the quality and selection to make every meal unforgettable. Stop by or visit us online to stock up on all the best ingredients for summer grilling. Great food starts with great ingredients—you’ll find them all at The Butcher Shop!