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Crispy Soft Pretzel and Bratwurst Casserole

Crispy Soft Pretzel and Bratwurst Casserole - featured image
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A quick and indulgent 30-minute dinner that combines chewy soft pretzels with savory bratwurst in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds raw bratwurst links
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 package soft pretzel bites or 1 large pretzel cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the bratwurst links for 6-8 minutes until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté the diced onion for 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic in the last minute.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes until light blonde.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  6. Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, mustard, paprika, garlic powder, and nutmeg until smooth.
  7. Slice the cooked bratwurst into bite-sized pieces.
  8. In a large bowl, gently fold together pretzels, bratwurst pieces, and cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  9. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and drizzle with 1 tablespoon melted butter.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh pretzels to prevent sogginess. Do not use pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel casserole, bratwurst recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, game day food, cheesy casserole, 30 minute meals

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/crispy-soft-pretzel-and-bratwurst-casserole-easy-30-minute-dinner/