How Long to Cook Brats on Grill? – Answer From Expert

Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal to prepare on your trusty grill? If so, brats are an ideal choice! Bratwursts tend to be succulent and flavorful due to the complexity of spices used in their preparation. The challenge is knowing how long these sausages need on the hot grates – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

We’ll provide detailed instructions for how long to cook brats on grill and what temperature they should reach during cooking. Whether you’re just getting started grilling or an experienced backyard chef, this is essential information that will help take your grilling game up a notch. So get ready for some tasty brat goodness – it’s time to fire up the grill!

What are Brats?

Brats, or bratwursts, are a type of German sausage made from pork, veal, beef and/or other meats. They are heavily seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to create unique flavors. The sausages take their name from the German word for “fry”—“braten.” Although typically associated with Germany, brats have become popular around the world in many different cuisines.

Preparing Brats for Grilling

Before grilling your brats, it is important to properly prepare them first. Start by pricking each sausage several times with a fork before placing them in cold water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to maintain a low simmer for 15 minutes. Afterward, place the brats on a cutting board or plate and pat them dry with paper towels.

Choosing the Right Brats

To ensure that your brats turn out perfectly grilled, it’s essential to choose the right type of brats. There are several varieties of brats available, each with its own distinct flavor and texture. Some of the most popular options include pork, beef, and veal brats, as well as those that are made with a combination of these meats.

When selecting brats for grilling, it’s important to consider the quality of the meat. Look for brats that are made from high-quality cuts of meat and have a good balance of fat and lean meat. You should also check the packaging to make sure that the brats have not expired or been sitting on the shelf for too long.

Another factor to consider when choosing brats for grilling is the seasoning. Some brats come pre-seasoned, while others are plain and require additional seasoning. If you prefer a particular flavor profile, look for brats that are seasoned with your preferred herbs and spices.

Finally, consider the size of the brats. Larger brats may take longer to cook on the grill and can be harder to handle, while smaller brats may cook faster and be easier to manage. Choose a size that works best for your grilling setup and personal preference.

By selecting the right type of brats for grilling, you can ensure that your brats turn out flavorful, juicy, and perfectly cooked every time.

Preparing the Grill to Grilling Brats

Before you start grilling your brats, it’s important to prepare the grill properly. Preheating the grill is crucial to ensure that the brats cook evenly and develop a crispy outer layer without drying out.

To preheat the grill, start by cleaning the grates with a wire brush to remove any residue or debris from previous grilling sessions. Once the grates are clean, turn on the grill and set it to high heat. Allow the grill to heat up for at least 10-15 minutes, or until the temperature reaches around 400-450°F.

Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to set it up for indirect heat. This means that the brats will not be placed directly over the flames but instead on a cooler part of the grill. To create indirect heat, turn off one or more burners on your gas grill or move the coals to one side of your charcoal grill.

Placing the brats on the cooler side of the grill will prevent them from burning or cooking too quickly, allowing them to cook evenly and develop a nice crust. Remember to keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent flare-ups.

By properly preheating and setting up your grill for indirect heat, you can ensure that your brats cook evenly and turn out perfectly grilled every time.

How to Cook Brats on Grill?

Cooking brats on the grill requires a bit of patience and attention to detail, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here are the steps for grilling brats to perfection:

1. Place the brats on the cooler side of the grill: Once the grill is preheated and set up for indirect heat, place the brats on the cooler side of the grill. Make sure there is enough space between each brat so that they cook evenly.
2. Cook the brats slowly: Cook the brats slowly over medium heat, turning them occasionally to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides. Avoid piercing the brats with a fork, as this can cause the juices to escape and dry out the meat.
3. Monitor the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature of the brats. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This will ensure that the brats are safe to eat and have a juicy, tender texture.
4. Adjust the heat: If the brats are cooking too quickly or starting to brown too much on the outside, adjust the heat by moving them to a cooler part of the grill or lowering the heat slightly.
5. Finish the brats with a sear: Once the brats are cooked through, you can finish them with a sear by placing them over direct heat for a few minutes on each side. This will give them a crispy, caramelized exterior that adds extra flavor and texture.

By following these steps and paying attention to the temperature and cooking time, you can grill brats to perfection every time. Remember to be patient and avoid rushing the cooking process, as this can result in brats that are undercooked, dry, or burnt.

How Long to Cook Brats on Grill?

Grilling brats is a popular and delicious way to enjoy this classic sausage. However, cooking brats on the grill can be tricky, as they can easily become dry and tough if not cooked properly. So, how long should you cook brats on the grill?

The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the brats, the temperature of the grill, and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines to follow when cooking brats on the grill:

1. Preheat the grill: Before cooking the brats, preheat the grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F).
2. Set up for indirect heat: Set up the grill for indirect heat by turning off one side of the burners or by moving the coals to one side of the grill.
3. Cook slowly: Cook the brats slowly over indirect heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure that they cook evenly.
4. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the brats should reach at least 160°F.

It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the brats and the temperature of the grill. Thicker brats may require more time to cook, while a hotter grill may cook the brats more quickly.

By following these guidelines and monitoring the temperature of the brats with a meat thermometer, you can achieve perfectly cooked brats that are juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite brats, and get ready to savor the mouth-watering flavors of this classic grilled dish.

Grilling Time Chart of Brats

Here is a general grilling time chart for brats based on weight:

• 4 oz. brats: 8-10 minutes per side
• 6 oz. brats: 10-12 minutes per side
• 8 oz. brats: 12-15 minutes per side
• 10 oz. brats: 15-20 minutes per side
• 12 oz. brats: 20-25 minutes per side
• 16 oz. brats: 25-30 minutes per side

As previously mentioned, these times are just guidelines and may vary depending on the thickness of the brats and the temperature of the grill. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness is still the most accurate way to ensure that your brats are cooked through and safe to eat.

Remember to cook the brats slowly over indirect heat, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. By taking the time to properly grill your brats, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please your taste buds.

Brats Grilled Methods

Grilling is a popular method for cooking brats, as it imparts a smoky and charred flavor that complements the savory taste of the sausage. Here are some popular methods for grilling brats:

1. Direct grilling: This method involves cooking the brats directly over the heat source, typically at a high heat (around 400-450°F). The brats are cooked for a shorter period of time (around 10-15 minutes) and are turned frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from burning.
2. Indirect grilling: This method involves cooking the brats indirectly over the heat source, with one side of the grill turned off or the coals piled to one side of the grill. The brats are placed on the cooler side of the grill and are cooked for a longer period of time (around 20-25 minutes) to ensure that they cook through without becoming dry or tough. This method is ideal for thicker brats or for cooking large batches of brats.
3. Parboiling and grilling: This method involves partially cooking the brats in boiling water or beer before grilling them. This helps to ensure that the brats are cooked through and helps to reduce the grilling time, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful brat.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to monitor the temperature of the brats using a meat thermometer to ensure that they reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F for safe consumption. Be sure to turn the brats frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from burning.

Grilling brats is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this classic sausage. With these grilling methods and tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked brats that are juicy, flavorful, and sure to please your taste buds.

How to Grill Brats on a Gas Grill?

Grilling brats on a gas grill is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic sausage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grill brats on a gas grill:

1. Preheat your gas grill: Turn on your gas grill and set it to medium-high heat. Close the lid and allow the grill to preheat for 10-15 minutes.
2. Prepare the brats: Remove the brats from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. You can also prick the brats with a fork to prevent them from bursting during grilling.
3. Oil the grill grates: Use a brush or paper towel to oil the grill grates with vegetable oil or cooking spray to prevent the brats from sticking.
4. Place the brats on the grill: Place the brats directly on the grill grates, perpendicular to the grates. This will create attractive grill marks and help prevent the brats from rolling around. Close the lid and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning the brats occasionally with tongs.
5. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. The temperature should reach at least 160°F for safe consumption.
6. Remove the brats from the grill: Once the brats are fully cooked, use tongs to remove them from the grill and transfer them to a platter. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

By following these steps, you can grill delicious and perfectly cooked brats on a gas grill that are sure to please your taste buds. Don’t forget to monitor the temperature of the brats using a meat thermometer to ensure that they are cooked through and safe to eat.

How to Grill Brats on a Charcoal Grill?

Grilling brats on a charcoal grill can create a delicious smoky flavor that complements the savory taste of the sausage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grill brats on a charcoal grill:

1. Prepare the charcoal grill: Fill a chimney starter with charcoal briquettes and light them with a fire starter. Allow the coals to burn until they are covered with white ash, which usually takes around 20-30 minutes. Dump the hot coals onto one side of the grill, leaving the other side empty.
2. Oil the grill grates: Use a brush or paper towel to oil the grill grates with vegetable oil or cooking spray to prevent the brats from sticking.
3. Place the brats on the grill: Place the brats directly on the grill grates over the side of the grill with the hot coals. Close the lid and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning the brats occasionally with tongs.
4. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. The temperature should reach at least 160°F for safe consumption.
5. Move the brats to the cooler side: Once the brats are fully cooked, use tongs to move them to the cooler side of the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

By following these steps, you can grill delicious and perfectly cooked brats on a charcoal grill that are sure to please your taste buds. Don’t forget to monitor the temperature of the brats using a meat thermometer to ensure that they are cooked through and safe to eat.

How to Grill Brats on a Pellet Grill?

Grilling brats on a pellet grill can infuse a delicious smoky flavor into the sausage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grill brats on a pellet grill:

1. Preheat the pellet grill: Turn on your pellet grill and set it to a temperature of 350°F. Allow the grill to preheat for 10-15 minutes.
2. Prepare the brats: Remove the brats from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. You can also prick the brats with a fork to prevent them from bursting during grilling.
3. Oil the grill grates: Use a brush or paper towel to oil the grill grates with vegetable oil or cooking spray to prevent the brats from sticking.
4. Place the brats on the grill: Place the brats directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning the brats occasionally with tongs.
5. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. The temperature should reach at least 160°F for safe consumption.
6. Remove the brats from the grill: Once the brats are fully cooked, use tongs to remove them from the grill and transfer them to a platter. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

By following these steps, you can grill delicious and perfectly cooked brats on a pellet grill that are sure to please your taste buds. Don’t forget to monitor the temperature of the brats using a meat thermometer to ensure that they are cooked through and safe to eat. Pellet grills are known for their even cooking temperatures, which can help ensure that your brats are cooked to perfection.

How to Grill Brats in a Grill Pan?

If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or if the weather isn’t ideal for grilling, you can still enjoy delicious brats by cooking them in a grill pan on your stovetop. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grill brats in a grill pan:

1. Preheat the grill pan: Place the grill pan on your stovetop over medium-high heat and let it preheat for a few minutes until it’s hot.
2. Prepare the brats: Remove the brats from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. You can also prick the brats with a fork to prevent them from bursting during grilling.
3. Oil the grill pan: Brush the grill pan with vegetable oil or cooking spray to prevent the brats from sticking.
4. Place the brats on the grill pan: Place the brats directly on the grill pan and let them cook for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs.
5. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. The temperature should reach at least 160°F for safe consumption.
6. Remove the brats from the grill pan: Once the brats are fully cooked, use tongs to remove them from the grill pan and transfer them to a platter. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

By following these steps, you can grill delicious and perfectly cooked brats in a grill pan on your stovetop. Don’t forget to monitor the temperature of the brats using a meat thermometer to ensure that they are cooked through and safe to eat. A grill pan can give you the delicious grilled flavor and marks even if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

Checking for Doneness of Grilled Brats

One of the most important steps in grilling brats is checking for doneness. Undercooked brats can be unsafe to eat, while overcooked brats can be dry and tough. Here are some tips for checking the doneness of your brats:

1. Use a meat thermometer: The most accurate way to check the doneness of brats is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the brat and make sure it reads at least 160°F.
2. Check for firmness: You can also check the doneness of brats by pressing them lightly with tongs or a spatula. If the brats feel firm and spring back slightly when pressed, they are likely cooked through.
3. Look for color: Another way to check the doneness of brats is to look for color. When cooked, brats should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink on the inside.
4. Avoid cutting into the brats: Cutting into the brats to check for doneness can cause the juices to escape, resulting in dry and tough meat. Use a meat thermometer or other methods to check for doneness without cutting into the brats.

By using these methods to check for doneness, you can ensure that your brats are cooked through and safe to eat while still retaining their juicy, flavorful texture. Remember to be patient and take your time when grilling brats, as this is key to achieving perfectly cooked and delicious results.

Tips to Cook Perfect Brats on the Grill

•  Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F).
• Place brats directly on the grate and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning often.
• When cooking multiple brats, space them evenly apart to ensure even cooking.
• Use tongs or a spatula to turn the brats, not forks as this will puncture them and cause them to lose their juices.
• To check if the brats are ready, insert an instant-read thermometer into their thickest part. If they reach an internal temperature of 160°F they are done.
• Avoid overcooking or burning your brats by regularly checking their temperature and removing them from the grill when done.
• Basting or brushing the brats with beer or oil while grilling can help keep them moist and add flavor.

Serving and Enjoying the Grilled Brats

Once your brats are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are some tips for serving and enjoying brats:

1. Serve with your favorite toppings: Brats are traditionally served with a variety of toppings, including sauerkraut, mustard, ketchup, onions, and relish. Choose your favorite toppings and arrange them on a platter for guests to customize their brats.
2. Pair with a refreshing beverage: Brats are often paired with beer or other refreshing beverages, such as lemonade or iced tea. Choose a beverage that complements the flavors of the brats and enhances the overall dining experience.
3. Enjoy with friends and family: Brats are a popular choice for backyard barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor gatherings. Invite friends and family over to enjoy the brats together, and savor the delicious flavors and aromas of grilled brats.

By following these tips, you can serve and enjoy delicious brats that are sure to be a hit with your guests. Remember to take your time when grilling the brats, and focus on creating a flavorful, juicy, and perfectly cooked dish that everyone will love.

How to Reheat Brats on The Grill?

To begin, make sure the charcoal or wood chips have reached their optimal temperature before adding the sausages to the grill. This will help ensure that all parts of each link are cooked/reheated through before being served. When grilling, be sure to spread out the coals evenly across the surface area as an unevenly distributed heat can cause one side of the meat to burn faster than others. Additionally, it is best to reheat over indirect heat rather than direct heat as this prevents flare ups which can lead burnt bits sticking onto sausages.

When heating up your pre-cooked bratwursts, it usually takes about 10 minutes until they reach a safe temperature and become hot enough to enjoy. During this time, make sure that all sides have been heated evenly by flipping them halfway through (about 5 minutes per side). If desired, you can also add additional flavors such as cheese or barbecue sauce before heating them up on the grill in order to further enhance their flavor profile.

Overall, reheating brats on a grill is a quick and easy way for anyone looking for an enjoyable and delicious meal without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you have leftover cooked brats from a previous cookout or picking up some pre-cooked ones from your local grocer, by following these handy tips you should be able to enjoy perfectly prepared warm brats in no time!

How to Store Leftovers of Griiled Brats?

Once cooked, leftover brats should be stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag and kept in the refrigerator. The brats should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours, as leaving them out can cause foodborne illnesses. To reheat brats, grill them or place them in a pan with a bit of butter to heat over medium heat until hot. It is important to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Leftover grilled brats may also be frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using one of the methods described above.

Conclusion: How Long to Cook Brats on Grill

Overall, cooking brats on the grill is an easy way to get a delicious and flavorful meal. The exact amount of time it will take to cook your bratwursts will depend on the size, thickness, and the temperature of your grill. T

he ideal temperature for grilling a brat is medium-high heat (about 375°F), so it’s important to make sure you have your grill up to that heat before starting to cook. If you take the time to prepare everything properly and follow a few simple rules, you can enjoy perfectly cooked brats in no time. Whether you like them plain with some kraut or as part of an amazing bbq sandwich with all the fixings, enjoying both the process and the results of learning how long to cook brats on grill is definitely something every grilling fan should try out!

FAQs about to Cooking Brats on Grill

Do I have to grill brats?

Grilling brats is not the only way to cook them, but it is a popular method that adds a delicious smoky flavor and crispy texture to the sausage. You can also cook brats in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker.

Is it better to parboil brats before grilling?

Parboiling brats before grilling is a common practice that can help ensure they are fully cooked and prevent them from bursting on the grill. However, it can also remove some of the flavors and juices from the sausage. Ultimately, whether or not to parboil brats before grilling is a matter of personal preference.

How long should I cook brats on a gas grill?

Cook brats on a gas grill for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats on a charcoal grill?

Cook brats on a charcoal grill for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats on a pellet grill?

Cook brats on a pellet grill for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats on a grill pan?

Cook brats on a grill pan for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats that are frozen on the grill?

Cook frozen brats on the grill for 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook pre-cooked brats on the grill?

Cook pre-cooked brats on the grill for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they are heated through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats that are boiled before grilling?

Boil brats for 10-15 minutes, then grill for 4-6 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats that are smoked before grilling?

Smoke brats for 30-45 minutes at 225°F, then grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How long should I cook brats that are wrapped in foil on the grill?

Cook brats wrapped in foil on the grill for 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

How can I tell when brats are fully cooked on the grill?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the brats. The temperature should reach at least 160°F for safe consumption. Additionally, the brats should be browned and have grill marks on the outside.

How often should you turn brats on the grill?

You should turn brats on the grill every 4-5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Use tongs to flip the brats gently, and avoid puncturing them with a fork, which can release juices and cause flare-ups.

Should brats be grilled on direct or indirect heat?

It’s best to grill brats on indirect heat, which means placing them on a cooler part of the grill and cooking them with the lid closed. This allows them to cook through evenly without burning or drying out.

Should you poke brats before grilling?

No, you should not poke brats before grilling. Puncturing the skin can cause the juices to escape and lead to dry, less flavorful brats. Use tongs to handle the sausage and flip them gently without piercing the skin.

Should you soak brats in water before grilling?

No, you do not need to soak brats in water before grilling. Soaking brats can dilute their flavor and prevent them from getting a crispy texture on the grill.

Should I grill brats with the lid open or closed?

You should grill brats with the lid closed to maintain a consistent temperature and ensure even cooking. However, you may need to open the lid occasionally to turn the brats or check their progress.

How long should I boil brats before putting them on the grill?

Boil brats for 10-15 minutes before grilling to ensure they are fully cooked and prevent them from bursting on the grill. However, this is optional and not necessary if you prefer to grill the brats directly.