Chili, Beer Cheese Sauce and Jalapeno Topped Brats

Brats are a hearty, crowd-pleasing handheld that’s easy for any weeknight meal or special gathering. Top them with satisfying chili and beer-cheese sauce and add jalapeños for the perfect crunch and kick of heat.

To make these mouthwatering brats, prepare outdoor grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat. In medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter over medium heat; add ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion and cook 3 minutes or until softened, stirring occasionally. Whisk in 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; cook 1 minute, whisking constantly. Reduce heat to low; cook 1 minute, whisking occasionally. Increase heat to medium; whisk in ½ cup lager beer and cook 2 minutes or until reduced by ¼, whisking occasionally. Add 1 minced garlic clove and ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream; cook 3 minutes or until thickened, whisking frequently. Remove from heat; gradually whisk in ¾ cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese until smooth. Whisk in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper until smooth; cover to keep warm. Makes about 1¼ cups.

Place 4 bratwurst sausages on hot grill rack; cover and cook 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°, turning once. Serve brats in 4 hot dog buns topped with 1¼ cups warmed mild chili with no beans, Beer-Cheese Sauce, 1 thinly sliced jalapeño pepper and ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion.