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    Home » Cooking and Food Tips

    Sausage vs Bratwurst - What's the Differences?

    First Published: June 15, 2023 . Last Modified: June 15, 2023 lisaNo Comments This post may contain affiliate links

    When compared, bratwurst vs Italian sausage, the differences can be difficult to spot. Both are made primarily from pork, have added seasonings and are packed in casings. Both are typically sold raw and must be cooked at home. Are bratwurst and Italian sausage the same? Let's explore the similarities and differences of bratwurst vs Italian sausage.

    A pile of different types of sausage.

    My family likes Italian sausage and bratwurst. As a matter of fact, they also like Polish kielbasa and smoked sausages. Is there a big difference? Yes and no. Let's learn all about the different types of sausages.

    What is sausage?

    If you're a meat lover, you're probably familiar with sausage. Sausage is made with ground meat (usually pork or beef but also another type of meat like chicken or turkey) mixed with spices and other flavorings. It can be made into patties or formed into a tube using natural casings.

    Italian sausage, hot dogs, kielbasa, bratwurst, and Mexican chorizo are all different kinds of sausages. The primary differences are usually found in the base meat, the seasonings and the cooking process. For Italian sausage, the difference is usually the addition of fennel and other mild spices.

    You can cook it in a bunch of different ways. Whether you're grilling, frying, or boiling, sausage is a versatile ingredient that can add tons of flavor to your favorite dishes. From sweet breakfast links to spicy andouille sausage, there are so many different types of sausage to try from around the world.

    Fresh Sausage – Sausages such as Italian sausage, fresh bratwurst and breakfast links are usually fresh, meaning they haven't been precooked.

    Smoked sausage – Smoked sausages such as Polish sausage and kielbasa have been cooked using smoke which gives the sausage a nice flavor.

    Precooked and cured sausage – Precooked sausages include hot dogs and some types of breakfast sausage. Pepperoni, salami and Spanish chorizo are popular sausages that are cured with  salt, sugar and spices. They are fully cooked and ready to eat. This type of sausage is often sliced and served on a charcuterie board. 

    Raw sausages in casings in a pile.
    Raw beef or pork grill sausage isolated on white background.

    What are Bratwursts?

    Bratwurst is a type of German sausage. While it originated in Germany, it's enjoyed around the world and is especially popular in the midwestern part of the United States. Bratwurst is made from a mixture of ground pork, beef, or veal, combined with spices such as sea salt, black pepper, nutmeg, ginger, or caraway then stuffed into synthetic or natural casing.

    Traditionally, bratwurst is cooked by grilling, pan-frying or baking in an oven. These methods give bratwurst a slightly crispy exterior while retaining its juicy and flavorful interior. It is often served on a bun or roll and accompanied by mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions and pepper, or other condiments. I love serving grilled Bratwurst sausages with a homemade potato salad. It's perfect for a backyard barbecue.

    Is Italian sausage and bratwurst the same?

    At first glance, Italian sausage links and bratwurst look very similar. Both are primarily a pork sausage that can be found in grocery stores and butcher shops. They can also be cooked using the same methods but that's where the similarities end.

    Italian sausage is typically seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, such as fennel seed, garlic, sweet paprika, and sometimes hot red pepper flakes. There are a variety of Italian sausage flavors which include sweet Italian sausage (or mild Italian sausage) and hot Italian sausage which usually includes a variety of spices. This delicious sausage can be cooked a variety of ways but I especially like them grilled with peppers and onions, used as pizza toppings or cooked in pasta sauces.  I also will add ground spicy Italian sausage along with ground beef to make an incredible Italian Meat Sauce.      

    Bratwurst is made with a blend of spices like salt, pepper, nutmeg, and other regional seasonings. It's mild in flavor and usually associated with grilling. Bratwurst is sometimes flavored with apples, cheese and beer.

    Bratwurst on a bun with onions and peppers.

    Best Sausage Serving Suggestions and Recipes

    Sausages are known for their savory and often rich flavors and are enjoyed by many people as a versatile and tasty protein source. While you can certainly eat them plain, they are great in soups, with pasta, added to casseroles, beans and more. Sausage can be cooked in the oven or on a grill for sandwiches or in a skillet. Sausage is affordable and it's easy to make a lot of sausage at once so it's a real crowd pleaser.

    • Air Fryer Italian Sausage
    • Sausage and Mushroom Tortellini
    • Stovetop Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
    • Lentil Soup with Smoked Chicken Sausage
    • Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage
    • Low Country Boil
    • Grilled Bratwurst with Beer, Sauerkraut and Mustard via Serious Eats

    In the end, for bratwurst vs. Italian sausage, it comes down to personal preference, the flavor and how you plan to serve the sausage.

    Thanks for stopping by! Subscribe to Jersey Girl Cooks if you would like more recipes and cooking tips sent to your email. You can also order my Super Easy Cookbook for Beginners and follow me on social media - Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

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    Hi, I'm Lisa

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