Introduction
This hearty Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet brings together smoky sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender golden potatoes for the ultimate comfort dish.
It’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
The balance of savory sausage, mild onions, and bright sauerkraut gives this dish an old-world European charm — while the simplicity of the recipe makes it a modern favorite.
Serve it hot with crusty bread or rice, and enjoy a comforting bite of home-style flavor in every forkful.
Ingredients
- 4–5 smoked sausages or kielbasa, sliced
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (or beer, for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Slice sausages into bite-sized rounds.
Peel and cube potatoes, then set aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat.
Add cubed potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Sausage
Add the remaining oil or butter to the skillet.
Sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent.
Add sliced sausage and cook for another 5–7 minutes, until browned and fragrant.
4. Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet.
Add sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and broth.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Stir well and let everything simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Garnish
Transfer to a serving dish and top with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Variations
- Different Sausages: Try bratwurst, Italian sausage, chorizo, or turkey sausage for a leaner twist.
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, carrots, or cabbage to make it heartier and more colorful.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or jalapeños for heat.
- Tangy Mustard: Stir in a spoonful of Dijon or whole-grain mustard for depth.
- Beer Version: Substitute broth with light beer for a rich, pub-style flavor.
Tips for Success
- Drain Sauerkraut: Excess liquid can make the dish soggy — always drain well.
- Brown the Sausages: Take time to brown the sausage slices; it adds smoky depth and texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the skillet sit for 5 minutes after cooking — the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serving Idea: Serve with a slice of dark rye or sourdough bread and a dollop of mustard.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container; the flavors intensify overnight!
Storage & Reheating
| Storage Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Refrigerate | Let cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store up to 3–4 days. |
| Freeze | Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Keeps up to 2–3 months. |
| Reheat | Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed. |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with buttered bread or mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
- Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
- Add a cold pint of beer or a glass of apple cider for a classic German touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 18 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 4 g
Conclusion
This Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet is a rustic, hearty dish that delivers the perfect mix of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.
It’s quick, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking for a new one-pan favorite, this skillet will warm your table and your heart.
Comfort food doesn’t get much better — easy to cook, easy to love! 🥔🌭✨
