Instant Pot Brats With Beer
Juicy brats cooked effortlessly in the Instant Pot with beer and onions for a cozy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 to 6 pieces Bratwurst, uncooked About 1 to 1.5 pounds. Pork brats work best.
- 1 cup Beer Use a light lager or pilsner for mild flavor.
- 1 large Onion, sliced White, yellow, or sweet onions can be used.
- 1 tablespoon Butter or oil For sautéing the brats.
- 1 to 2 cloves Garlic, minced Optional for added flavor.
- 1 package Buns Pretzel buns are fun, but any sturdy hot dog bun works.
Optional Toppings
- Mustard For serving.
- Sauerkraut Optional but adds to the flavor.
- Pickles or jalapeños For a little extra kick.
- Shredded cheddar Optional, for added richness.
Instructions
Searing
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add butter or oil.
- Brown the brats for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove to a plate.
Building Flavor
- Add sliced onion to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes to soften.
- Pour in 1 cup of beer and scrape up any browned bits on the bottom.
- Stir in minced garlic if using.
Pressure Cooking
- Place the brats on top of the onions. No trivet needed.
- Lock the lid and set to High Pressure for 7 minutes for fresh brats.
- Let it Natural Release for 5 minutes, then quick release the rest.
Finishing Touches
- For a snappier casing, pop the brats under a broiler for 1 to 2 minutes or return to Sauté for a quick crisp.
- Toast the buns if desired.
- Serve brats on buns with onions, a spoon of beer-y onion juice, mustard, and sauerkraut.
Notes
Brats can also be cooked from frozen by skipping the sear, using the same procedure with an extended cooking time. For best flavor, choose your beer wisely—lagers work best!