Follow this clear, step-by-step guide on how to grill brats so they turn out juicy and perfectly cooked every time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a backyard cookout, or a big summer celebration, grilled bratwurst is always a hit.
The Best Grilled Brat Recipe
During warm months we grill often, and bratwurst is a regular favorite. Build a make-your-own brat bar with a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their sandwich. If you have kids or picky eaters, throw a few hot dogs on the grill next to the brats — they heat up quickly and are always popular.
If you want a different take, try beer brats for extra flavor — they’re a classic and well worth trying.
What You Will Need
- Bratwursts – fresh raw brats or pre-cooked varieties from the grocery store or butcher both work.
- Buns – brat or hot dog buns large enough to hold the sausage and toppings.
How To Grill Brats
Start by making sure you have enough brats for your guests — extras are useful, since leftovers reheat well. Gather any toppings you plan to serve so everything is ready once the brats come off the grill.
Pre-cooked brats also grill nicely if you prefer a shortcut.
Set out the toppings you’ll offer so guests can assemble their brats just the way they like.
When ready to cook, clean the grill grates and preheat a gas grill to about 300–350°F. Place the brats directly on the hot grates.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Brats On The Grill
At 300–350°F, grill brats for about 18–24 minutes, rotating every 3–5 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on whether the brats are raw or pre-cooked.
Pro Tip
Start with a quick sear over direct heat, then move the brats to indirect heat and finish cooking at a more moderate temperature to prevent splitting and drying out.
Remove the brats from the grill and let them rest on a plate or cutting board for 5–7 minutes so the juices redistribute.
Favorite Toppings For Grilled Brats
Brush the inside of the buns with a little melted butter and toast them on the grill for 1–2 minutes. Offer a variety of toppings such as chopped onions or grilled onion slices, sauerkraut, ketchup, yellow mustard, honey mustard, and pickle relish so guests can build their perfect brat.
How To Serve Grilled Bratwurst
Serve brats with simple grill-friendly sides for a quick meal: grilled potato wedges, grilled broccolini, or grilled corn are all great choices. For larger gatherings, pair brats with creamy coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for a full spread. Don’t forget a cold beverage to enjoy alongside.
Recipe FAQ
- Do you have to boil brats before grilling? Boiling is optional. Some people simmer brats in beer before grilling for flavor and to reduce grill time, but it’s not required.
- Can I use a charcoal grill? Yes. Aim for a cooking temperature of about 250–325°F and cook the brats for roughly the same time, turning every few minutes.
- Precooked brats vs. raw brats: Both work. Precooked brats only need to be heated through, while raw brats must be brought to 160°F internal temperature; cooking times are similar.
Other Easy Recipes You Might Like
- Smoked brats
- Air fryer hot dogs
- Smoked hot dogs
- Mummy hot dogs
How to Grill Brats (Grilled Brats Recipe)
Ingredients
- 6 bratwursts, cooked or uncooked
- 6 buns of your choice
Serving Suggestions:
- homemade sauerkraut
- honey mustard sauce
- ketchup
- easy grilled onions
Instructions
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Prep Grill: Clean and grease the grates. Preheat the grill to medium / medium-low heat (300–350°F).
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Grill Brats: Place 6 bratwursts over direct medium heat and rotate every 3–5 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (about 18–24 minutes). Remove and let rest 5–7 minutes.
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Serve: Place brats in buns and top with sauerkraut, honey mustard, ketchup, grilled onions, and any other favorite toppings.
Notes
- Low and slow: Avoid very high heat, which can split the casings and dry the brat. Sear briefly, then finish over lower or indirect heat.
- Don’t pierce: Wait until the brats rest before cutting or piercing so juices stay inside.
- Toasted buns: Brush buns with melted butter and toast them for a minute on the grill for extra flavor.
- Cooked vs. uncooked brats: Both varieties should reach 160°F internal temperature; precooked brats mainly need to be warmed through.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Beer brats: If you prefer, you can simmer brats in beer first for added flavor.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 23g
| Protein: 13g
| Fat: 21g