How to Grill and Smoke Brats on a Traeger

Grilling brats is an art that combines the right choice of bratwurst, seasoning, smoking, and grilling techniques to achieve the perfect bite. This guide will walk you through every step to ensure your brats are a hit at any outdoor gathering.

Choosing Your Bratwurst

The first step in grilling brats is selecting the right sausage. Opt for uncooked, raw brats with a balanced lean-to-fat ratio, ideally 70% lean and 30% fat. Avoid pre-cooked brats as they lack the natural flavors that develop during the grilling process.

Seasoning Bratwurst

Lightly roll your brats in a seasoning rub before grilling. Traeger's signature rub, with hints of chili pepper, garlic, oregano, and basil, is a great choice. If braising, add the rub to your beer or broth mixture instead.

Smoking or Braising Bratwurst

Smoking Brats:

• Set your grill to the Smoke setting (225°F) for 45 minutes to an hour.
• After smoking, increase the temperature to 375°F and grill each side for a few minutes to crisp the casing.

Braising Brats:

• Place brats in a beer braise at 275°F for 45 minutes to an hour.
• Finish by grilling at 375°F for a few minutes per side.

For both methods, the ideal internal temperature for brats is between 140°F and 145°F to retain moisture and ensure safety.

Best Wood for Smoking Brats

Hickory pellets offer a versatile flavor for traditional BBQ brats, while maple or apple wood pellets add a sweet touch. Avoid milder woods like oak, which don't impart strong flavors.

Grilling Brats

• Preheat your grill to High (375°F).
• Grill brats for 12-15 minutes, turning frequently until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Toasting Buns

Toast your buns with a thin layer of butter or mayo on the grill for 1-2 minutes to add a crispy texture.

Brats on a Pellet Grill

Cooking brats on a pellet grill enhances their flavor with a smoky, wood-fired taste that other grilling methods can't match. Avoid flame-ups and ensure even cooking for juicy, delicious brats every time.

Conclusion

Follow these tips for choosing, seasoning, smoking, and grilling brats to ensure your outdoor gatherings are a culinary success. Experiment with different seasonings and wood pellets to find your perfect flavor combination, and enjoy the rich, smoky goodness of perfectly grilled bratwurst.