Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Bratwurst and Potatoes Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To enhance the flavor profile, you can lightly toast the minced garlic in the butter before drizzling it over the sausages. This adds a deeper, nuttier dimension to the sauce.

Additionally, ensure that the Parmesan cheese is finely grated rather than coarsely shredded; finer particles will melt more readily into the butter, creating a more uniform coating rather than clumping together on the surface of the food.

If you prefer a bit of texture on the potatoes, you can briefly sauté them in a pan with a small amount of oil until golden brown before adding them to the slow cooker.

While this adds a small step, it provides a nice contrast to the soft, slow-cooked texture of the rest of the meal. Always ensure that any added ingredients are incorporated without disrupting the base layer of the sausages.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the garlic and Parmesan mixture before drizzling with butter. This provides a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the bratwurst and complements the garlic flavor profile perfectly.
• Herbed Garlic Butter: Mix 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs into the melted butter before pouring it over the dish. The addition of herbs introduces a fresh, aromatic element that brightens the overall flavor of the sausage and potato combination.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a microwave or saucepan until steaming hot throughout.

Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Once cooled, store the dish in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, ensure the food is heated thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to maintain safety and quality.

This dish can be prepared in advance by layering the raw ingredients in the slow cooker insert and storing it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, simply place the insert into the slow cooker base and proceed with the cooking time. Do not add the melted butter until just before you turn the slow cooker on to ensure the best texture.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish directly from the slow cooker for a casual family meal, or transfer it to a large serving platter for a more presentable display.

The juices and melted butter at the bottom of the pot are packed with flavor, so be sure to spoon some of the sauce over the sausages and potatoes when plating. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad can complement the richness of the meal.

When serving, consider providing extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who prefer an additional savory kick. The dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad to balance the richness of the bratwurst and butter.

Ensure that each serving includes a good portion of the potatoes and the flavorful sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Bratwurst and Potatoes

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 5

Ingredients

• 5 links raw bratwurst sausages
• 1 lb baby gold potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Place the raw bratwurst links in the bottom of the slow cooker insert, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Tuck the halved baby gold potatoes around and between the sausages to fill the gaps.
2. Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the sausages and potatoes. Drizzle the melted butter over the entire mixture, ensuring it coats the ingredients as much as possible.
3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4 hours. Once cooked, ensure the sausages reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let the sausages rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the juices are properly distributed throughout the meat.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

480

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

28 g

Fat

31 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

1.5 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.