How to Cook a Bratwurst in the Oven

If you don't own a grill, or don't like hassling with charcoal or propane, your oven's broiler is a good alternative. A broiler is essentially a grill turned upside down -- the heat comes from the top, rather than from underneath the meat, and the heated space is enclosed. Broiling can also be less expensive since it runs on electricity, rather than charcoal and propane gas, and there is no smoke to deal with when using it. A bratwurst is easily cooked by broiling -- the casing helps hold in moisture while it cooks, preventing this dry-heat cooking method from turning the sausage tough and dry.

Raw bratwurst links on a cutting board. (Image: rezkrr/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Turn the broiler in your oven on, allowing the oven to preheat with the door closed.

Step 2

Place a brat on a broiling pan going across the grates.

Step 3

Set the broiling pan in the oven once the broiler has warmed up. Make sure the sausage is positioned about seven to nine inches below the heat.

Step 4

Cook for 16 to 20 minutes total, turning the brat 90 degrees every four to five minutes so that it cooks evenly on both sides. The brat should change color to a golden brown hue when it is cooked.

Step 5

Pull the broiling pan from the broiler and serve the brat.

Things You'll Need

• Bratwurst

• Broiling pan

Tip

Remember to turn off your broiler when you are done using it.

If you are nervous about how well the sausage is cooked, stick a meat thermometer into the center of the sausage. According to the USDA, sausage should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Warning

Bratwurst and other beef and pork sausages tend to have a high sodium and fat content. You can choose healthier options such as vegetarian sausages made from vegetables and tofu, or you can opt for leaner meats such as chicken.