Instant Pot Brats (Best Easy Bratwurst Recipe!)

Whether it’s tailgating season, a casual weekend cookout, or just a Tuesday night where you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, these Instant Pot Brats deliver juicy, beer-steamed flavor in record time. This method takes all the guesswork out of cooking bratwurst and guarantees flavorful, perfectly-cooked sausages every time—with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

If you’ve ever wanted the taste of a backyard grill without having to fire one up, you’re going to love this easy Instant Pot bratwurst recipe. It’s rich, savory, and the beer infusion brings that authentic pub flavor straight into your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is for busy home cooks, bratwurst lovers, meal preppers, and weekend warriors looking for a no-fuss way to cook bratwurst to perfection. It’s also a winner for:

• Game day parties – Serve them hot, juicy, and fast!

• Low-carb/keto eaters – Just use a low-carb beer.

• Anyone tired of dry, overcooked sausages – This method locks in moisture.

• Instant Pot beginners – With only a few ingredients and simple steps, it’s foolproof.

You only need 3 ingredients and less than 30 minutes to pull off this incredible meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful bratwurst recipe:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 5–7 uncooked bratwurst links (standard size)

• 1 bottle of beer (mild lager or a light beer like Michelob Lite for a lower carb option)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To get the best results, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)

• Tongs

• Trivet or steaming rack (comes with most Instant Pots)

• Spatula or wooden spoon

• Measuring spoons

• Serving platter

Optional:

• Oven-safe baking sheet (for crisping the skin under the broiler, if desired)

• Meat thermometer (to check doneness, internal temp should hit 160°F)

Step-by-Step Instructions

🔥 Step 1: Brown the Brats

• Set the Instant Pot to Sauté (High) and let it fully preheat.

• Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt.

• Place the bratwursts in the pot and sear them for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned.

• Depending on your pot size and how many brats you’re cooking, you may need to do this in batches.

• Once browned, remove the brats and set them aside on a plate.

🍺 Step 2: Add Beer and Pressure Cook

• Place the metal rack/trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot.

• Layer the bratwursts on the rack. It’s totally fine if they overlap slightly.

• Pour one full bottle of beer over the top.

• Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and choose Manual or Pressure Cook for 6 minutes.

• Once the timer is up, let the pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then switch the valve to Quick Release for any remaining steam.

🍽️ Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

• Carefully remove the bratwursts with tongs.

• Serve on warm buns, over mashed potatoes, or sliced with mustard and kraut.

• Optional: For crispier skin, place them under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely so they don’t overcook.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These brats are endlessly versatile! Here are a few delicious ideas to serve them up:

🥨 Classic Style

• Serve in a warm bun with mustard, sauerkraut, and grilled onions.

🥗 Low-Carb Style

• Serve sliced over a bed of greens, alongside sautéed zucchini noodles, or with a side of cauliflower mash.

🍽️ Oktoberfest-Inspired

• Serve with warm German potato salad, red cabbage, and a cold mug of lager.

🧀 Cheese Lovers’ Dream

• Split the brats and top them with melted cheddar, pepper jack, or even a beer cheese sauce.

🍻 Drink Pairings

• Lagers and Pilsners enhance the mild spice and fat of bratwurst.

• For wine, try a chilled Riesling or a light Pinot Noir.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Freeze cooked bratwurst for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags.

Reheating Tips:

• Microwave: Slice and microwave for 1–2 minutes.

• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of beer or broth.

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until heated through.

Recipe Variations

🌶️ Spicy Kick

Use jalapeño cheddar brats and add red pepper flakes to the butter when browning.

🧅 Onions in the Mix

Slice a yellow onion and sauté it with the brats in the butter for extra flavor.

🍏 Apple and Beer Brats

Add thin apple slices into the Instant Pot with the beer for a sweet twist.

🍻 Non-Alcohol Version

Use chicken broth, ginger ale, or apple cider instead of beer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen bratwurst?

Yes, but thaw them first for proper browning. You can pressure cook from frozen, but skip the searing and cook for 7–8 minutes under pressure instead.

What’s the best beer to use for brats?

A mild lager or pilsner is ideal. You want something that enhances, not overwhelms, the flavor. Avoid hoppy IPAs unless you love bold, bitter notes.

Do I have to use the trivet?

Technically, no—but the trivet helps keep the brats from sitting directly in the liquid, preserving their texture. It also helps with even cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! As long as you don’t exceed the Max Fill line, you can safely double the recipe. The cook time stays the same.

Are these brats gluten-free?

The brats themselves may be gluten-free, but check labels carefully. Use a certified gluten-free beer or substitute broth.

Final Thoughts

With just three ingredients, a handful of simple steps, and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, these Instant Pot Brats are destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. They’re meaty, juicy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Plus, cooking them in the Instant Pot means no need to fire up the grill—you get consistent results every time.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need an easy dinner that everyone will devour, this bratwurst recipe checks all the boxes.