BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwurst with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa: Your Ultimate Summer Flavor Bomb
As the warm embrace of summer gently transitions into crisp autumn evenings, there’s no better way to celebrate the season’s lingering warmth than with bold, vibrant flavors on the grill. This BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwurst with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa recipe delivers exactly that – a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, smoky, and spicy notes that will make your taste buds sing. These perfectly grilled brats, coated in a rich, caramelized Head Country BBQ Sauce, are elevated to an extraordinary level with a generous topping of homemade spicy peach bacon salsa. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to be the star of any backyard gathering or end-of-summer celebration.
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Head Country Bar-B-Q. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Cake ’n Knife.
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About These BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwursts
The marriage of smoky barbecue flavors with the succulent sweetness of peaches is truly a match made in culinary heaven. It’s a combination that I’ve explored before with dishes like bourbon peach BBQ sauce and bourbon peach BBQ wings. Now, I’m thrilled to bring that irresistible peachy goodness to the beloved grilled bratwurst, transforming a simple sausage into an extraordinary meal.
The star of this recipe, beyond the perfectly cooked brat, is undoubtedly the spicy peach bacon salsa. This vibrant salsa provides a symphony of textures and tastes, igniting your palate with every bite. The grilled peaches offer a concentrated sweetness and a hint of smoky char, beautifully contrasting with the crispy, savory bacon. A kick of heat from fresh jalapeño, tempered by the crisp bite of red onion and the refreshing zest of lime juice, creates a dynamic flavor profile. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note, while a touch of chili powder deepens the overall complexity. It’s not just a salsa; it’s a flavor enhancer that you’ll want to dollop generously over every grilled brat and probably everything else you grill this summer!
But we don’t stop there. These aren’t just ordinary grilled bratwurst. To elevate them further, we introduce a luscious, sticky glaze using my all-time favorite barbecue sauce: Head Country Original BBQ Sauce! This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a game-changer. Head Country BBQ Sauces are renowned for their exceptional depth of flavor. Their Original blend, which started it all, stands out in a crowded market thanks to its meticulously balanced combination of sweet, tangy, and savory spices. It adheres beautifully to the brats, creating a perfectly caramelized exterior that locks in all the juicy goodness while adding an irresistible sticky, sweet, and smoky layer.
The glazing process is simple: in the final minutes of grilling, you brush on the Head Country BBQ Sauce, ensuring both sides are generously coated. This allows the sauce to caramelize and form that desirable sticky finish without burning. The result is a truly flavorful bratwurst that is not only delicious on its own but also acts as the perfect canvas for our spicy peach bacon salsa. While I’m using it on grilled bratwurst here, this glazing technique with Head Country BBQ Sauce is also fantastic on grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, and even vegetables. It’s a versatile technique that brings immense flavor to any grilled dish. So, are you ready to dive into this incredible grilling experience?
Ingredients for Ultimate Flavor
Crafting these sensational BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwursts with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that truly shine together. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
Head Country Original BBQ Sauce – This is truly the foundation of our bratwurst glaze and, in my humble opinion, the best original BBQ sauce on the market. Its incredible balance of sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy notes makes it perfect for grilling. The sauce caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that locks in moisture and adds an undeniable depth to the brats.
Brats – Choose your favorite brand of quality bratwurst for this recipe. While many flavored brats are delicious, I recommend opting for a more traditional, unflavored variety here. This allows the robust flavors of the Head Country BBQ Sauce and the vibrant peach bacon salsa to truly stand out without competing with the sausage’s internal seasoning. Pork brats are a classic choice, but you can also experiment with chicken or veal brats.
Buns – A sturdy yet soft bun is crucial for holding all these delicious components. Brioche buns are my top recommendation due to their slightly sweet, rich, and buttery flavor, and their ability to hold up to the juicy brats and salsa. Alternatively, good quality hoagie rolls or even pretzel buns would work wonderfully.
Peaches – The ripest peaches are key to achieving the most flavorful salsa. Look for peaches that are deeply golden yellow and slightly soft to the touch, with a fragrant aroma. Grilling them brings out their natural sugars and adds a smoky sweetness that is simply unparalleled. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, high-quality frozen peach slices can be grilled from frozen, though fresh is always preferred for optimal texture.
Bacon – For maximum flavor and a delightful textural contrast in the salsa, I used thick-cut, hickory-smoked bacon. The hickory smoke perfectly complements the grilled elements. Cook the bacon until it’s wonderfully crisp, then crumble or dice it into small pieces for the salsa.
Red Onion – Half a medium red onion, finely diced, adds a sharp, piquant crunch to the salsa that cuts through the sweetness of the peaches and richness of the bacon. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding to the salsa, then drain well.
Jalapeño – This pepper brings the “spicy” to our spicy peach bacon salsa. For a bolder kick, leave some of the seeds and membranes intact when dicing the jalapeño. If you prefer a milder heat, remove all seeds and membranes before chopping. Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference.
Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice is always best for a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the salsa. It adds a much-needed acidic counterpoint to the sweet and savory ingredients. If fresh limes are unavailable, a good quality bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
Chili Powder – A touch of chili powder or ancho chili powder adds an earthy warmth and subtle smoky undertone to the salsa, enhancing its overall complexity without overpowering the other flavors. It ties all the components together beautifully.
Essential Equipment for Grilling Success
Having the right tools makes all the difference when preparing a recipe, especially one involving grilling and chopping. Here are the must-haves for this BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwurst and Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa:
- Quality Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll be doing a fair bit of chopping for the salsa – peaches, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro – so a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are indispensable for efficient and safe prep.
- Grill: Whether it’s a gas grill, charcoal grill, or pellet grill like my beloved Traeger, a reliable grill is essential. I particularly enjoy my Traeger as it offers both grilling and smoking capabilities, imparting an extra layer of delicious smokiness to the brats and peaches.
- Tongs: A good pair of long-handled tongs is crucial for safely flipping brats and peaches on a hot grill, ensuring even cooking and perfect char marks.
- Silicone Brush: For applying that glorious Head Country Original BBQ Sauce glaze, a silicone brush is ideal. It allows for even application and is easy to clean after handling sticky sauce.
- Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked brats every time, a reliable meat thermometer is a non-negotiable item. It ensures your brats reach a safe internal temperature without overcooking and becoming dry.
Step-by-Step: How to Make BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwurst
Making these flavorful BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwursts with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa is a straightforward process, broken down into a few easy steps. Follow these instructions for a perfect summer meal:
Grill Brats and Peaches to Perfection
First, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly greased with a high-smoke-point oil like canola or grapeseed to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, carefully place the raw bratwursts and the halved, pitted peaches directly on the grates. For the peaches, grill them for about 5 to 7 minutes with the lid closed to allow them to soften and develop beautiful grill marks. Then, flip them over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Bratwursts typically require 15 to 20 minutes of total grilling time. Remember to turn them frequently, every 4-5 minutes, to ensure they cook evenly on all sides and achieve a golden-brown exterior without charring too quickly. The goal is to cook them through without piercing the casing, which helps retain their delicious juices.
Glaze Brats for a Sticky, Sweet Finish
This step is where the magic happens! During the last 5 minutes of the brats’ cooking time, generously brush them with Head Country Original BBQ Sauce using a silicone brush. Ensure all sides are coated. After about 2-3 minutes, flip the brats and brush the other side, allowing the sauce to caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful glaze. This brief glazing period prevents the sauce from burning while imparting a deep, sweet, and savory crust. Once glazed and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160˚F), carefully remove the brats from the grill.
Crafting the Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa
While the brats are finishing up, prepare your vibrant salsa. Once the grilled peaches have cooled slightly, you can choose to peel them or leave the skin on. I often find the peel tends to come off easily when chopping, so removing it can make for a smoother salsa texture, but it’s entirely a matter of preference. Roughly chop the grilled peaches into small, bite-sized pieces. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped peaches with the diced crispy bacon, finely diced red onion, and diced jalapeño. Add the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and chili powder. Stir all the ingredients together gently to combine. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed, adjusting the spice level if desired.
Assemble for a Stunning Presentation
Once everything is prepared, it’s time to assemble your delicious meal. Place each hot, BBQ-glazed grilled bratwurst into a soft brioche bun. Spoon a generous amount of the spicy peach bacon salsa over the top of each brat. For an added layer of texture and visual appeal, sprinkle some shredded purple cabbage and extra fresh cilantro over the salsa. Serve immediately and watch your guests’ faces light up with delight! These brats are best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Expert Tips for Grilling Perfect Brats
Achieving perfectly cooked and flavorful BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwursts is easier with these expert tips:
- Use a Thermometer in the Right Place: To ensure your brats are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160˚F without losing their delicious juices, always use a reliable meat thermometer. Crucially, do not pierce the casing through the middle of the brat, as this will allow the flavorful fats and juices to escape. Instead, insert the probe into the center of the brat through the open end of the casing. This method preserves the integrity of the brat and keeps it succulent.
- Alter the Heat Level of the Salsa: The spiciness of your peach bacon salsa is entirely customizable. If you love a fiery kick, leave some or all of the seeds and membranes in the jalapeño when dicing it. For a milder salsa, remove all the seeds and white pith. You can also add a pinch more chili powder for extra warmth or a dash of hot sauce if you’re truly adventurous. Conversely, for an even milder flavor, you could use a green bell pepper instead of jalapeño.
- Prevent Flare-Ups: Brats are often fatty, which can lead to flare-ups on the grill. To prevent this, ensure your grill grates are clean before cooking. If you notice flare-ups, move the brats to a cooler part of the grill or temporarily remove them until the flames subside. Cooking over indirect heat after an initial sear can also help manage fat drippings.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give your brats and peaches enough space on the grill. Overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature and lead to steaming rather than grilling, preventing that desired sear and even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the Brats Rest: Just like steaks, brats benefit from a short resting period after coming off the grill. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the sausage, resulting in a more tender and juicy bite.
More tasty things in buns for the grill:Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst |Salsa Jalapeño Crunch Burger |Miso Glazed Sriracha Burgers |Crunch Cheeseburger Sliders
How Long Do You Cook Brats on the Grill?
For fully cooked, juicy bratwursts, you’ll typically cook them on a grill set to medium-high heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. The exact time can vary depending on the thickness of your brats, the actual temperature of your grill, and whether you’re using direct or indirect heat. It’s crucial to flip them every 4 to 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly on all sides and develop a beautiful, consistent char without burning. The most accurate way to determine doneness is by using a meat thermometer: they are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160˚F.
How Do You Tell When Brats Are Done Cooking?
The definitive way to know your brats are perfectly cooked and safe to eat is when they reach an internal temperature of 160˚F. Resist the urge to cut into a brat to check for doneness, as this will cause all those delicious juices to leak out, resulting in a drier sausage. Instead, use a reliable instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the probe carefully into the center of the brat, ideally through one of the ends where the casing is already slightly open. This method preserves the integrity of the casing and keeps your brats succulent and flavorful.
Do You Have to Boil Brats Before Grilling Them?
No, you absolutely do not need to boil brats before grilling them! This is a common misconception, and in fact, boiling them beforehand can actually diminish their flavor. When you boil brats, a significant amount of their natural juices and savory fats are leached out into the water, resulting in a less flavorful and sometimes tougher sausage. For grilled bratwurst, it’s best to place them directly on the grill. The grilling process itself, with proper temperature control and frequent turning, will cook them thoroughly while allowing them to develop a delicious crust and retain all their succulent goodness. Trust the grill to do the work!
Do I Need to Peel the Peaches After I Grill Them?
It’s entirely up to your preference! When making the spicy peach bacon salsa, I personally find that the peel on grilled peaches can sometimes become a bit fibrous or tend to separate when you’re chopping them. For a smoother, more refined salsa texture, I prefer to gently remove the peel after grilling once they’ve cooled enough to handle. However, if you’re looking to save a little time or don’t mind a bit of texture, you can certainly leave the peel on. It won’t significantly alter the taste, just the mouthfeel. So, feel free to skip that step if you’re in a hurry!
Need some more inspiration for grilling? Check out mygrilling recipes page!
What to Serve with BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwurst
These BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwursts with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa are packed with bold and exciting flavors, so pairing them with complementary side dishes is key to a well-rounded meal. Simpler accompaniments often work best to let the main dish shine. Here are some fantastic ideas to complete your culinary experience:
- Classic Sides: You can never go wrong with a side of crispy potato chips, golden french fries, or a refreshing potato salad. A classic creamy coleslaw also offers a nice cool contrast to the spicy brats.
- Grilled Vegetables: Keep the grill fired up and add some grilled corn on the cob, asparagus, or bell peppers. The smoky char from the grill will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the bratwurst.
- Fresh Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, or a vibrant quinoa salad, can offer a refreshing element and a touch of lightness to balance the richness of the brats and salsa.
- Libations: For drinks, consider something that won’t compete with the complex flavors of the brats. A light, crisp lager or a refreshing iced tea are always good choices. If you’re looking for a cocktail, a sparkling whiskey sour provides a zesty, bubbly counterpoint, or a classic bourbon manhattan offers a sophisticated, smooth pairing.
- Sweet Endings: Continue the peach theme into dessert for a truly cohesive meal. A rustic peach blueberry galette is perfect as it can be prepared ahead of time, or for a truly immersive grilling experience, a grilled peach cobbler can cook alongside your brats, utilizing residual grill heat.
Seasonal Tip: Selecting Perfect Peaches
To ensure your spicy peach bacon salsa is bursting with flavor, choosing ripe peaches is essential. Look for peaches with a deep golden-yellow color, avoiding any that appear pale or greenish, especially around the stem. A truly ripe peach should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed, indicating juicy, tender flesh. It should also emit a sweet, fragrant aroma, which is a strong indicator of ripeness and flavor. Avoid peaches with bruises or shriveled skin. If your peaches aren’t quite ripe, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.
Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey! If you prepare these delicious BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwursts with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear about it. Please consider leaving a rating and a comment below to share your experience or any questions you might have. I make it a point to read and respond to every single comment, as your feedback truly inspires me.
And for those who love to share their creations visually, be sure to tag me on Instagram! Seeing these recipes come to life in your kitchens and on your grills is genuinely my favorite part of sharing them. It means the world to me to witness your delicious results!
BBQ Glazed Grilled Bratwurst with Spicy Peach Bacon Salsa
equipment
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mixing bowls
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Organic Bamboo Cutting Board
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9-Inch Tongs
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Hickory Hardwood Grill Pellets
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Traeger Lil Tex Elite 34 Pellet Grill
ingredients
- 4 hot dog buns
- 4 bratwursts of your choice
- 1/2 cup Head Country Original BBQ Sauce
- Garnish: freshly chopped cilantro shredded purple cabbage
- 4 slices bacon cooked and diced
- 2 ripe peaches pitted and cut in half
- 1/2 red onion diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper diced
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 Tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
instructions
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grates with canola oil.
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Once hot, add brats and halved, pitted peaches to the grill.
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Grill peaches for 5 to 7 minutes, covered. Turn and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until tender and lightly charred.
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Grill brats for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to prevent uneven cooking, until cooked through and an internal temperature of 160˚F is reached. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the brats generously with Head Country Original BBQ Sauce. Flip after 2-3 minutes and brush the other side, allowing the sauce to caramelize into a sticky glaze.
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When the grilled peaches are done cooking and cool enough to handle, you can choose to peel them if desired, then roughly chop them. Add the chopped peaches to a bowl with the cooked and diced bacon, diced red onion, diced jalapeño pepper, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and chili powder. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve the hot, BBQ-glazed brats in brioche buns, topped generously with the fresh peach bacon salsa, a sprinkle of shredded purple cabbage, and a final garnish of fresh cilantro. Enjoy immediately!