Bratwurst Burger with Onion Sauerkraut Topping
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These bratwurst burgers combine all the classic German flavors of bratwurst in a burger. Mouthwatering pork patties are served on a soft bun with melted Swiss cheese, mustard mayo, and onion sauerkraut. It’s an easy, fuss-free recipe that is ready in 25 minutes!
If I’m craving the classic, savory flavor of bratwurst but want something a little different, these bratwurst burgers are my answer. They’re easy enough for a weeknight but fun enough to shake up the usual burger routine, especially when grilling season rolls around.
Instead of seasoning ground meat, I keep things simple and start with seasoned bratwurst. I remove the meat from the casings, form it into patties, and grill them until juicy and lightly charred. The burgers are stacked on soft pretzel buns, slathered with a quick mayo-mustard sauce, and topped with sautéed onions and tangy sauerkraut for that unmistakable German-inspired combo.
They’re hearty, satisfying, and made with straightforward ingredients that everyone recognizes and loves. I fire up the barbecue whenever I want a burger that feels familiar but still a little special—and these always deliver big, juicy flavor.
If you love bratwurst sausages, also try my bratwurst and sauerkraut recipe!
Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the burgers are fully cooked?
Great question! Because these burgers are made with sausage meat (rather than freshly ground meat), it’s important to ensure they are fully cooked before serving. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Definitely! To save time, mix together the mustard mayo sauce and prepare the patties. Store them in the fridge in airtight containers for up to 3 days, or until you’re ready to cook them.
Can I reheat leftover bratwurst burgers?
Burgers are one of those foods that just don’t taste the same reheated. You definitely can, but don’t expect the same results. To reheat, place them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What to serve with a bratwurst burger
Like all burgers, these bratwurst burgers are perfect for backyard barbecues and grilling season. Pair them with a creamy potato salad, a classic Caesar salad, or my simple creamy cucumber salad. My dill French fries are also a welcome side!
Bratwurst Burger with Onion Sauerkraut Topping
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- ½ cup sauerkraut
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (can be light)
- 1 tablespoon German mustard (or dijon)
- 6 links bratwurst sausages
- 4 slices swiss cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, occasionally stirring, until it is very soft, about 7 minutes. Stir in the sauerkraut and remove the pan from the heat.1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 large onion, ½ cup sauerkraut
- While the onions are cooking, make the sauce. Mix the mayonnaise and mustard together in a small bowl.¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon German mustard
- Remove and discard the sausage casings and place the meat in a bowl. Use your hands to break up the meat to resemble ground pork.6 links bratwurst sausages
- Form the bratwurst meat into four burger patties.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once it's hot, cook the bratwurst burger patties until they are fully cooked and have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. See notes. Then top with the swiss cheese and let it melt. If you'd like, warm the burger buns. You can also sear these burgers in a dry pan over medium-high heat for 5 minutes per side.4 slices swiss cheese, 4 hamburger buns
- Serve the burgers with the mustard mayo sauce and the onions piled on top.
Notes
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
