Description
This Beer Brat and Caramelized Onion Pizza combines rich, savory bratwurst simmered in light beer with sweet, tender caramelized onions atop a crisp thin crust pizza. Fresh mozzarella melts perfectly over the toppings, making it an ideal satisfying meal for casual gatherings or game day indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausages & Beer
- 2 bratwursts, uncooked
- 2 bottles light beer, 12 oz each
Vegetables & Butter
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
Cheese & Crust
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 thin pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Simmer the Bratwursts: Pour the light beer into a deep rimmed frying pan or pot and add the bratwursts. Poke a few holes in each bratwurst with the tip of a knife to allow the beer to infuse the meat. Bring the beer to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the brats turn grey and are cooked through, about 20 minutes.
- Caramelize the Onions: While the brats simmer, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely sliced onions and cook them gently, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning. Continue cooking until the onions become translucent and then brown and caramelized, about 30 minutes depending on onion size.
- Fry the Bratwursts: After simmering, transfer the bratwursts to a frying pan with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of butter. Fry them until each side is browned and lightly crisp. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the pizza.
- Assemble the Pizza: Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet. Distribute the sliced mozzarella evenly across the crust. Then add the caramelized onions and sliced bratwurst pieces on top, spreading them out so every bite has a balance of flavors.
- Bake the Pizza: Bake the assembled pizza in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to brown around the edges, indicating the crust is cooked through and the toppings are heated perfectly.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice into portions and serve, ideal for a casual tailgate or satisfying dinner.
Notes
- Simmering bratwursts in beer infuses them with flavor and keeps them moist before frying for a crisp exterior.
- Caramelize onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness; stirring frequently prevents burning.
- Use a thin pizza crust for a crisp base that holds the hearty toppings well.
- Letting the bratwursts rest after frying helps retain their juices before slicing.
- Feel free to use a mild or sharp beer depending on your preference for flavor intensity.
- For extra crispiness, pre-bake the crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.