These Smoked Brats are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time! An easy BBQ recipe that’s ideal for tailgates, weeknights, or summer cookouts.
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Smoked brats are one of those cookout staples I never get tired of. There’s something about that smoky aroma, juicy brats, and packed with delicious smoke flavor.
I love how easy they are to make! Just pop them in the smoker for a full-proof method that anyone can do. Whether served on a toasted bun with mustard or sliced over mac and cheese, these smoked brats always hit the spot. Minimal prep, Versatile meal options, and always a crowd favorite! If you love this smoker recipe, then you must try Smoked Hot Dogs, Grilled Bratwurst or The Best Meats to Smoke.
Ingredients
- Bratwursts – Use your favorite kind. But usually use all beef
- Buns – Serve with buns or without
- Sauerkraut – Optional Topping
Scroll to the recipe card for the full recipe details.
How to Make Smoked Brats
Step 1 – Preheat a smoker to 225 degrees F with a water pan.
Step 2 – Place the brats in the smoker directly on the grates. Smoke them for 1.5-2 hours until the brats reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 3 – Remove the brats from the smoker. Serve on the buns topped with sauerkraut and enjoy!
Smoked Brats
Ingredients
- 6 Bratwursts
- 6 Bratwurst Buns
- Sauerkraut optional
Instructions
- Preheat a smoker to 225 degrees F with a water pan.
- Place the brats in the smoker directly on the grates. Smoke them for 1.5-2 hours until the brats reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove the brats from the smoker. Serve on the buns topped with sauerkraut and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Tips
- Check for doneness – Use an instant-read meat thermometer to make sure that the brats are cooked to a safe temperature before removing it from the smoker. Insert in the middle of the sausage with an internal meat thermometer to check internal temp.
- Adding Wood Chips – Make sure to add chips to the smoker every 15 minutes if your smoker does not have an automatic feature.
- Don’t pierce the Brats – Keeps juices inside for a juicy bite.
Variations
- Cheesy Brats – Add shredded cheese inside the buns for a melty twist.
- Spicy Sausage – Use jalapeño brats or drizzle with hot mustard, yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard. Add more of your favorite toppings such as chopped onions
- Appetizer – Slice brats after smoking and serve as appetizers with BBQ sauce.
- Bacon Wrapped Brats – Wrap Brats in bacon before smoking for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smoking time will vary depending on the size of brats, but the cooking time is about 1½ to 2 hours.
Applewood and cherry wood give a mild, sweet flavor. Hickory adds a stronger, smoky taste.
Yes, the process remains the same and to smoke at 225 degrees.
Store the leftovers in the refrigerator up to 4 days in an airtight container or freeze for 2 months in a freezer safe container. Reheat on the grill or stovetop.
More Easy Smoked Recipes
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