Memorial Day has a way of bringing people together around familiar flavors, long conversations, and meals prepared outdoors. Cheesy Brats with Celery-Pickle Relish is the kind of recipe that fits naturally into that tradition. It takes a backyard favorite and gives it extra character through melted cheese, smoky grilled sausage, and a bright relish that cuts through the richness with crisp texture and tangy flavor.
As families and friends gather to mark the holiday and honor those who served, the menu often leans on dishes that are easy to share and satisfying to enjoy outdoors. Bratwursts have long been a staple for that reason. They cook beautifully over an open flame, pair well with a variety of toppings, and invite everyone to customize their plate. This version brings together contrasting flavors that make each bite memorable. Savory sausage meets creamy cheese, while celery and pickles contribute freshness and a welcome crunch.
A well-built grill makes preparation simple and enjoyable. Consistent heat helps develop a flavorful sear on the bratwursts while allowing the cheese to melt smoothly over the top. With a Summerset grill at the center of the gathering, the cooking process remains part of the occasion rather than a task that pulls you away from it. Guests can gather nearby, enjoy the aroma rising from the grates, and anticipate the meal taking shape in real time.
The relish deserves special attention. Crisp celery, briny pickles, and a touch of sharp acidity create balance against the richness of the sausage and cheese. Together, the ingredients turn a familiar cookout favorite into something layered, vibrant, and worthy of a holiday table. Whether served alongside classic cookout sides or enjoyed straight from the bun, this recipe offers a flavorful way to celebrate the start of summer and spend more time enjoying life outdoors.
Serves 4
Cheesy Brats with Celery-Pickle Relish Ingredients
- Vegetable oil (for grill)
- 3 celery stalks, leaves reserved
- ¼ cup finely chopped pickles
- 2 Tbsp. spicy brown mustard, plus more for buns
- 2 tsp. white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp. honey
- Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
- 4 hot-dog-style bratwurst, hot dogs, or other cooked sausages
- 4 hot dog buns, split
- 4 oz. sharp white cheddar, thinly sliced
Cheesy Brats with Celery-Pickle Relish Directions
- Prepare a grill for medium-high heat; oil the grate with vegetable oil. Remove any leaves from 3 celery stalks and set aside for serving. Cut stalks lengthwise into quarters, then thinly slice crosswise. Transfer to a medium bowl and add ¼ cup finely chopped pickles, 2 Tbsp. spicy brown mustard, 2 tsp. white wine vinegar, and 1 tsp. honey; mix well. Season relish with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Working one at a time, slice down the length of 4 hot-dog-style bratwurst, hot dogs, or other cooked sausages, taking care not to cut all the way through. Open up the bratwurst like a book and flatten it.
- Grill 4 hot dog buns, split, cut side down, to lightly toast, about 2 minutes. Transfer to plates. Grill bratwurst, cut side up, until lightly charred, about 2 minutes. Turn over and top with 4 oz. thinly sliced sharp white cheddar, dividing evenly. Cover and cook until grill marks appear on the cut side and the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.
- Spread spicy brown mustard on the inside of the buns. Nestle the bratwurst into the buns so that the cheese forms a layer between the buns and the sausages. Fill the split between the sides of the sausages with relish. Garnish with reserved celery leaves if using.
Taken from bonappetit.com