So, you’re hosting a game day party and you want to serve some juicy brats to your hungry guests. You’ve already cooked the brats in a crockpot, but now you’re wondering how to keep them warm and delicious throughout the event. Well, fret not, because I’m here to share some tried and true tips on how to keep brats warm in a crockpot!
1. Cook the Brats in Advance
The first step is to make sure you’ve thoroughly cooked the brats before transferring them to the crockpot. This ensures that the brats are safe to eat and reduces the risk of any foodborne illnesses.
2. Use a Low Heat Setting
Once the brats are cooked, reduce the heat setting on your crockpot to low. This will help maintain a gentle heat that keeps the brats warm without overcooking or drying them out.
3. Keep the Lid On
It’s important to keep the lid on the crockpot while the brats are inside. This helps retain the heat and moisture, keeping the brats tender and flavorful. Avoid constantly removing the lid, as this can cause heat loss and result in the brats cooling down faster.
4. Wrap the Crockpot with a Towel
If you want to further insulate the crockpot and retain heat, consider wrapping it with a thick towel. This additional layer of insulation helps to keep the brats warm for a longer period of time, even when the crockpot is not plugged in.
5. Serve the Brats Directly from the Crockpot
Instead of transferring the brats to a separate serving dish, consider leaving them in the crockpot. This way, the brats will continue to stay warm while your guests help themselves. Just make sure to provide a pair of tongs or a serving spoon for easy access.
6. Have a Backup Plan
While a crockpot does an excellent job of keeping the brats warm, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case the crowd gets particularly hungry and the brats are devoured quickly. Consider grilling or pan-frying a fresh batch of brats to have on standby, just in case!
7. Stir Occasionally
Every once in a while, give the brats a gentle stir with a wooden or silicone spoon. This helps redistribute the heat and ensures that all sides of the brats stay warm and flavorful.
8. Add a Little Liquid
If you’re worried about the brats drying out, you can add a little liquid to the crockpot. This can be beer, broth, or even just plain water. The liquid will help maintain moisture and prevent the brats from becoming too dry.
9. Keep the Temperature Safe
It’s essential to keep the brats at a safe temperature to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Make sure the internal temperature of the brats reaches 160°F and use a food thermometer to double-check if needed.
10. Consider Slicing the Brats
If you’re serving the brats as part of a buffet or sandwich station, consider slicing them into smaller pieces. This not only makes it easier for your guests to grab a portion, but it also helps the brats retain their warmth more effectively.
11. Keep the Crockpot Plugged In
As obvious as it may sound, it’s crucial to keep the crockpot plugged in throughout your event. This ensures that the brats are continuously heated and maintains their warmth until the very last bite.
12. Enjoy the Party!
Now that you know how to keep brats warm in a crockpot, you can relax and enjoy your game day party. With these tips, you’ll be able to serve up piping hot and delicious brats that will have your guests coming back for seconds!
