Save Get ready for the ultimate game day snack with these Touchdown Brat Sliders. Combining juicy bratwurst patties with a tangy, velvety beer cheese sauce and sweet caramelized onions, these sliders bring a gourmet American-German fusion to your party platter. They are small in size but packed with bold, savory flavors that will have your guests reaching for seconds before the first quarter is even over.
Save Whether you are hosting a Super Bowl party or just looking for a fun weekend lunch, these sliders are designed to impress. The secret lies in the combination of textures—the soft bun, the crisp pickle, and the creamy sauce create a perfect harmony in every bite. They are quick to assemble and easy to customize, making them a stress-free addition to any menu.
Ingredients
- For the Brat Patties:
- 1 lb (450 g) uncooked bratwurst sausages, casings removed
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- For the Beer Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) lager beer
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 oz (55 g) cream cheese
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- For the Onions:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- Pinch of salt
- For Assembly:
- 12 slider buns
- 1/3 cup (30 g) sliced dill pickles
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing buns)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions with a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 12–15 minutes. Set aside.
- Step 3
- In a bowl, combine bratwurst meat, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently. Divide into 12 equal portions and shape each into a small patty.
- Step 4
- Arrange patties on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
- Step 5
- Meanwhile, make the beer cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly add beer, whisking constantly until smooth. Reduce heat to low, then add cheddar and cream cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt. Keep warm.
- Step 6
- Split slider buns and place bottom halves in a baking dish. Top each with a brat patty, a spoonful of caramelized onions, pickles, and generous beer cheese sauce. Cover with bun tops.
- Step 7
- Brush bun tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Step 8
- Bake assembled sliders for 7–8 minutes, until buns are toasted and cheese is bubbling. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra kick of heat, try adding a few jalapeño slices inside the sliders before baking. This balances the richness of the beer cheese and the sweetness of the onions.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a lighter alternative, you can substitute the pork bratwurst with turkey bratwurst. The savory spices and cheese sauce will ensure they remain just as delicious.
Serviervorschläge
These sliders pair beautifully with a crisp pilsner or a traditional German Hefeweizen. Serve them alongside extra pickles or a side of potato chips for the full game day experience.
Save With their juicy patties and golden, butter-brushed tops, these Touchdown Brat Sliders are guaranteed to be the MVP of your next gathering. Simple to assemble but impressively flavorful, they capture everything there is to love about comfort food. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the best experience!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use pre-cooked bratwurst instead of raw sausages?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bratwurst. Simply chop them finely, mix with the seasonings, form into patties, and reduce baking time to 6-8 minutes just to heat through and lightly brown the surface.
- → What type of beer works best for the cheese sauce?
A light lager or pilsner works perfectly as it provides subtle flavor without overwhelming the cheese. Avoid dark or heavily hopped beers which can make the sauce bitter. Non-alcoholic beer also works well.
- → How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Keep the heat low when adding the cheese and stir constantly. Remove from heat once the cheese melts to prevent overheating. Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded also helps maintain a smooth texture.
- → Can these sliders be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the patties, caramelized onions, and cheese sauce up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and warmth.
- → What can I substitute for bratwurst?
Ground pork seasoned with fennel, garlic, and caraway makes a good substitute. Turkey bratwurst offers a leaner option. Italian sausage can also work, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
- → How do I store leftover sliders?
Store assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through. The buns may soften slightly upon reheating.