Cheddar, bacon, and beer — a trio of flavors so iconic, it’s no wonder they come together in this epic Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt. Imagine a juicy, cooked-to-perfection bratwurst nestled between slices of buttery, toasted bread, layered with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a rich, zesty beer sauce. This sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, delivering big, bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving an indulgent lunch, this Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt
This Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining the savory, smoky flavors of bratwurst and bacon with the creamy, melty goodness of cheddar cheese and a rich beer sauce. The cooked-to-perfection bratwurst provides a satisfying, hearty base, while the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. The melted cheddar cheese creates a velvety, indulgent texture that perfectly complements the zesty, flavorful beer sauce. Plus, the toasted bread serves as the perfect vessel to hold all these incredible ingredients together. Whether you’re enjoying this melt as a game-day snack, a satisfying lunch, or a cozy dinner, the combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more. Get ready to sink your teeth into this epic, craveable sandwich that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
To make this Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt, you’ll need a few key ingredients: juicy bratwurst sausages, thick-cut bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and bread of your choice. For the beer sauce, you’ll use a flavorful beer, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a few seasonings. These simple, high-quality ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering, indulgent sandwich that’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
- 8 bratwurst sausages – cooked according to package instructions
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon – cooked until crispy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bread of your choice
- 1 cup beer, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper – for the beer sauce
Ingredient Substitutions
- Bratwurst: Italian sausage or ground pork/beef patties (works just as well)
- Cheddar Cheese: Swiss or pepper jack cheese (for dietary needs)
How to Make Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt
Begin by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop or crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Next, cook the bratwurst sausages according to the package instructions, either by grilling, pan-frying, or boiling them until they’re cooked through. Slice the cooked bratwurst into bite-sized pieces.
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop or crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Next, cook the bratwurst sausages according to the package instructions, either by grilling, pan-frying, or boiling them until they’re cooked through. Slice the cooked bratwurst into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a small saucepan, combine the beer, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beer sauce from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place the buttered slices, butter-side down, on a baking sheet. Divide the shredded cheddar cheese evenly among the bread slices, then top with the cooked bratwurst pieces and the crispy bacon. Drizzle the prepared beer sauce over the top of the sandwiches.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Bake the Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melts in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the melts from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. Enjoy these epic, comfort-food inspired sandwiches while they’re hot and crispy!
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Sautéed Onions or Sauerkraut: Add sautéed onions or tangy sauerkraut for an extra flavor boost.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheeses, such as Swiss, pepper jack, or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Portable Option: Assemble the melt on a sturdy roll or bun for a more portable sandwich.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Crisp green salad, creamy coleslaw, or dill pickle spears.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Make-Ahead: The beer sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
One Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt is a hearty, satisfying meal that provides a good balance of macronutrients. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, 30 grams of fat, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 30 grams of protein. The bratwurst and bacon contribute to the protein and fat content, while the bread and beer sauce provide the carbohydrates. This sandwich is a great source of calcium and vitamin B12 from the cheese and meat. As with any indulgent dish, it’s important to enjoy the Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Serving Size: 1 Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is the traditional choice for this sandwich, you can absolutely use other types of sausage, such as Italian, Polish, or even breakfast sausage. Just be sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before assembling the melt.
Can I make the beer sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the beer sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to assemble the melts, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Definitely! While sliced bread works great, you can also use rolls, buns, or even a sturdy sourdough or ciabatta loaf. Just make sure the bread can hold up to the hearty fillings.
How do I make the melts gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread or rolls, and ensure that the bratwurst and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze the assembled melts?
For best results, it’s not recommended to freeze the fully assembled Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melts. The bread may become soggy and the cheese may not reheat well. However, you can freeze the cooked bratwurst and bacon separately, then assemble and bake the melts when ready to serve.
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Cheddar Bacon Beer Brat Melt
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Delicious cheddar bacon beer brat melt featuring juicy bratwurst, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese on a toasted bun. Perfect for game day or a hearty dinner!
Ingredients
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 cup of beer (lager or ale)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 crusty rolls or buns
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: mustard and pickles for serving
Instructions
1.
2. 1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. 2. In the same skillet, add the bratwurst and cook until browned on each side, about 5 minutes.
4. 3. Pour the beer into the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the bratwurst are cooked through.
5. 4. Remove the bratwurst and let them cool slightly before slicing them lengthwise.
6. 5. In the same skillet, add butter and sliced onions, sauté until the onions are caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
7. 6. Preheat the broiler. Place the rolls on a baking sheet, and layer the sliced bratwurst, caramelized onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese on top.
8. 7. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 8. Serve warm, optionally topped with mustard and pickles.
Notes
– For extra flavor, you can add some sautéed peppers or jalapeños.
– This recipe is great for gathering with friends and family. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: 🍔 Epic Burgers & Melts
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg