There’s nothing like a crisp, fall game day—the excitement, the energy, and, of course, the food. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team at home or tailgating with friends, good food makes all the difference. This Bratwurst Slider Recipe featuring Gartner’s smoked bratwurst is sure to be a hit with your game day crowd. They’re quick, easy and packed with smokehouse flavor.
Bratwurst Slider Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious bratwurst sliders for your next game day gathering.
Ingredients:
- 8-10 Gartner’s Smoked German Bratwurst (choose from our classic or flavored options like beer, jalapeño or cheddar brats)
- 12 slider buns (or Hawaiian rolls for added sweetness)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese, halved
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard or spicy mustard
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bratwurst
Our smoked bratwursts are already fully cooked, so all you need to do is reheat them before you prep the rest of your recipe. Heat your grill to medium heat or use a stovetop grill pan. Grill the bratwurst until they are warmed all the way through, turning occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bratwurst from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice each brat in half length-wise, making sure not to cut all the way through, so both sides are still attached. Once you’ve sliced your brats open, cut each of them in half, so they will fit into your slider buns.
2. Caramelize the Onions
While the bratwurst is grilling, heat a pan over medium heat with butter and olive oil. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook them slowly until they are soft and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Buns
While the bratwurst rests, lightly toast your slider buns or rolls on the grill or in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Sliders
Now it’s time to put together your sliders! Spread a generous amount of Dijon mustard (or your favorite mustard) on the bottom half of each bun. Place a piece of bratwurst on top of the mustard, followed by a slice of cheese, a spoonful of caramelized onions, and, if desired, a bit of sauerkraut. Finish with the top half of the bun.
5. Melt the Cheese
If you want extra-melty cheese, place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to make sure the buns don’t burn!
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the sliders are ready, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and serve them on a platter. These sliders are best enjoyed hot, so serve them right away.
Enjoy Game Day with Gartner’s!
With this bratwurst slider recipe, you’ll be the MVP of your game day party. Stop by Gartner’s Meat Market today to grab your bratwurst and other quality meats for all your game day snacks.