Print

Best Oktoberfest Bratwurst & Beer Cheese Skillet

Best Oktoberfest Bratwurst and Beer Cheese Skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

A hearty one-pan meal featuring browned bratwurst, caramelized onions, and a velvety beer cheese sauce. Perfect for Oktoberfest or any cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 fresh bratwurst links (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup dark German lager or Oktoberfest beer
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Crusty bread or soft pretzel bites (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Brown the bratwurst: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once melted and foaming, add the bratwurst links. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and starting to caramelize, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last minute and stir until fragrant.
  3. Deglaze the pan: Pour in about 1/4 cup of the beer and use a wooden spoon to scrape up browned bits from the bottom. Let bubble and reduce slightly, about 30 seconds.
  4. Make the beer cheese sauce: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute. Slowly pour in remaining 3/4 cup beer and milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  5. Add the cheese: Remove skillet from heat. Add shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is melted. Stir in Dijon mustard, mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Slice and return the bratwurst: Slice browned bratwurst into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Return to skillet, nestling into the sauce. Place over low heat for 1-2 minutes to warm through.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with crusty bread or pretzel bites.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for a smooth sauce. Use a malty German lager, not an IPA. Brown the bratwurst well for maximum flavor. Remove pan from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Oktoberfest, bratwurst, beer cheese, skillet, one-pan, German, comfort food

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/best-oktoberfest-bratwurst-and-beer-cheese-skillet/