The savory flavor and juicy texture of bratwurst make it a staple at many outdoor gatherings and barbecues. However, after a big cookout, you may find yourself with a surplus of cooked brats and wondering what to do with them. Fear not, dear sausage lovers, for we have some creative and mouth-watering ideas to repurpose your leftover bratwurst.
Bratwurst Basics
Before we dive into the creative uses for cooked brats, let’s cover some basics. Bratwurst is a type of German sausage made from ground meat (usually pork, beef, or a combination of the two) and a blend of spices. It’s typically sold in links and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, pan-frying, and boiling.
Types of Bratwurst
There are many different types of bratwurst, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Some popular varieties include:
- Nürnberger Bratwurst: A classic German-style bratwurst made with pork and a blend of spices, including marjoram, caraway seeds, and ginger.
- Bratwurst mit Käse: A cheese-filled bratwurst that’s perfect for those who love a gooey, melty center.
- Jalapeño Cheddar Bratwurst: A spicy twist on the classic bratwurst, featuring jalapeños and cheddar cheese.
Breakfast Ideas
Who says bratwurst is only for lunch and dinner? Here are some creative ways to use cooked brats in your breakfast dishes:
Bratwurst and Eggs
Slice up your leftover bratwurst and serve it with scrambled eggs, toast, and a side of hash browns. You can also add diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the skillet for added flavor.
Bratwurst Omelette
Fill an omelette with sliced bratwurst, cheese, and diced veggies for a hearty breakfast that’s sure to satisfy.
Bratwurst Breakfast Burrito
Wrap scrambled eggs, sliced bratwurst, and shredded cheese in a tortilla for a breakfast burrito that’s both filling and delicious.
Lunch and Dinner Ideas
Now that we’ve covered breakfast, let’s move on to some tasty ideas for lunch and dinner:
Bratwurst Sandwiches
Serve sliced bratwurst on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as sauerkraut, mustard, and grilled onions.
Bratwurst and Potato Salad
Toss diced bratwurst with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and diced veggies for a creamy, satisfying side dish.
Bratwurst and Bean Chili
Add sliced bratwurst to your favorite chili recipe for a boost of flavor and protein.
Bratwurst Quesadilla
Fill a tortilla with sliced bratwurst, cheese, and diced onions, then cook it in a skillet until crispy and melted.
Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Skillet
Cook sliced bratwurst and sauerkraut in a skillet with some caraway seeds and potatoes for a hearty, one-pot meal.
Global Inspirations
Bratwurst isn’t just for traditional German dishes. Here are some global inspirations to get you started:
Korean-Style Bratwurst Tacos
Marinate sliced bratwurst in a Korean-inspired sauce (think gochujang and soy sauce), then serve it in a taco shell with kimchi slaw and cilantro.
Bratwurst and Mango Salsa Wrap
Fill a tortilla with sliced bratwurst, mango salsa, and mixed greens for a sweet and savory wrap.
Bratwurst and Egg Fried Rice
Add diced bratwurst to your favorite fried rice recipe for a protein-packed breakfast or brunch dish.
Snacks and Appetizers
Finally, here are some ideas for using cooked brats as snacks and appetizers:
Bratwurst and Cheese Fritters
Mix diced bratwurst with shredded cheese, flour, and eggs, then fry into crispy fritters.
Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Dip
Combine cooked bratwurst with sauerkraut, sour cream, and diced onions for a tasty dip that’s perfect for game day or parties.
Bratwurst Stuffed Mushrooms
Fill mushroom caps with a mixture of cooked bratwurst, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden brown.
In conclusion, cooked bratwurst is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from breakfast to dinner and beyond. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and global, we hope these ideas have inspired you to get creative with your leftover brats.
What are some creative ways to use up cooked Bratwurst?
Using up cooked Bratwurst can be a fun and creative challenge. One idea is to slice the Bratwurst and add it to a hearty breakfast skillet filled with scrambled eggs, potatoes, and cheese. You can also chop the Bratwurst and add it to a warm, crusty sub roll, topped with peppers, onions, and mustard.
Another idea is to crumble the Bratwurst and add it to a batch of homemade mac and cheese, giving the classic comfort food a meaty twist. You can also use cooked Bratwurst in place of bacon in a carbonara recipe, adding a smoky flavor to the dish. The possibilities are endless, and it’s up to you to get creative with your leftover Bratwurst.
Can I use cooked Bratwurst in a casserole?
Cooked Bratwurst is a great addition to many casseroles, adding a meaty, savory flavor to the dish. One idea is to slice the Bratwurst and layer it with pasta, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese in a classic Italian-inspired casserole. You can also crumble the Bratwurst and mix it with ground beef, beans, and cheese for a hearty, comforting chili mac casserole.
When using cooked Bratwurst in a casserole, be sure to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe accordingly, as the Bratwurst can release moisture as it cooks. You can also add the Bratwurst towards the end of the cooking time, so it heats through and gets crispy on top. This will help to prevent the Bratwurst from becoming mushy or overcooked.
How can I use cooked Bratwurst in a soup or stew?
Cooked Bratwurst is a great addition to many soups and stews, adding a meaty, savory flavor to the dish. One idea is to slice the Bratwurst and add it to a hearty, comforting potato soup, along with diced potatoes, onions, and carrots. You can also crumble the Bratwurst and add it to a spicy, smoky chili, along with ground beef, beans, and diced tomatoes.
When using cooked Bratwurst in a soup or stew, be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning in the recipe accordingly, as the Bratwurst can be quite salty. You can also add the Bratwurst towards the end of the cooking time, so it heats through and gets tender. This will help to prevent the Bratwurst from becoming tough or overcooked.
Can I use cooked Bratwurst in a salad?
Cooked Bratwurst can be a great addition to many salads, adding a meaty, savory flavor to the dish. One idea is to slice the Bratwurst and add it to a hearty, German-inspired potato salad, along with diced potatoes, onions, and pickles. You can also crumble the Bratwurst and add it to a fresh, summery pasta salad, along with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette.
When using cooked Bratwurst in a salad, be sure to choose a recipe that complements the flavor of the Bratwurst. You can also add the Bratwurst at the last minute, so it stays crispy and doesn’t get soggy. This will help to add texture and interest to the salad.
How can I use cooked Bratwurst in a pasta dish?
Cooked Bratwurst is a great addition to many pasta dishes, adding a meaty, savory flavor to the dish. One idea is to slice the Bratwurst and add it to a hearty, comforting mac and cheese, along with pasta, cheese sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs. You can also crumble the Bratwurst and add it to a spicy, smoky penne pasta dish, along with diced tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
When using cooked Bratwurst in a pasta dish, be sure to choose a recipe that complements the flavor of the Bratwurst. You can also add the Bratwurst towards the end of the cooking time, so it heats through and gets tender. This will help to prevent the Bratwurst from becoming tough or overcooked.
Can I freeze cooked Bratwurst for later use?
Yes, cooked Bratwurst can be frozen for later use, making it a convenient and easy way to meal prep. To freeze cooked Bratwurst, simply slice or crumble it and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily identify it later.
When you’re ready to use the frozen Bratwurst, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it quickly by submerging it in cold water. You can then use the Bratwurst in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to casseroles and pasta dishes. Frozen Bratwurst is a great way to add protein and flavor to a meal, even on short notice.
How long does cooked Bratwurst last in the refrigerator?
Cooked Bratwurst can last for several days in the refrigerator, making it a convenient and easy way to meal prep. Generally, cooked Bratwurst will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator, as long as it is stored in an airtight container and kept at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
When storing cooked Bratwurst in the refrigerator, be sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. You can also wrap the Bratwurst tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or slimy texture, be sure to discard the Bratwurst immediately.