There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that brings together hearty potatoes, smoky sausage, and tangy sauerkraut—all cooked to perfection in one pan. The Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet is that kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out. It’s rustic, flavorful, and wonderfully simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you crave something cozy and deeply satisfying.
This recipe celebrates the beautiful balance of textures and flavors—the crisped potatoes, juicy sausage, and the slight tang of sauerkraut all come together in perfect harmony. Let’s dive into how you can make this classic dish at home.
Introduction
The Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet is a timeless European-inspired comfort dish with roots in German and Eastern European cooking traditions. It’s known for its rich, smoky aroma and the contrast between savory sausage and tangy sauerkraut.
What makes this meal truly special is its simplicity. You only need one skillet and a few staple ingredients to prepare a filling, flavor-packed dish. Whether served for dinner on a cold evening or as a hearty meal to share with loved ones, this recipe promises pure satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: Fewer dishes, less cleanup, more flavor.
- Comforting and hearty: Potatoes and sausage make it incredibly filling.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Traditional yet simple: Brings authentic European flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort.
- Perfect for meal prep: Stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
Ingredients
To make this hearty Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet, you’ll need:
- 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, for authentic German flavor)
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping everything you’ll need:
- Slice the sausages into bite-sized rounds.
- Peel and cube the potatoes into even pieces so they cook evenly.
- Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to remove excess liquid and prevent sogginess.
Cook the Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and tender.
Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside. They’ll finish cooking later when combined with the other ingredients.
Sauté the Onion and Sausage
Add the remaining oil or butter to the skillet. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent—about 3–4 minutes.
Next, add the sliced sausage. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown and release its savory oils. This step builds deep flavor for the whole dish.
Combine and Simmer
Now return the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Stir in the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and broth.
Season everything with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully—the broth soaks into the potatoes, and the sauerkraut mellows slightly.
Serve and Garnish
Once everything is heated through and fragrant, remove from heat. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot with crusty bread, rye toast, or even a side of mustard for an extra tangy note.
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:
Try Different Sausages
Experiment with bratwurst, Italian sausage, or turkey sausage for a different twist. Each type brings a unique texture and flavor to the skillet.
Add More Vegetables
For extra nutrition and color, add vegetables like bell peppers, shredded cabbage, carrots, or green beans. These additions also help stretch the meal for a larger family.
Spice It Up
If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a few slices of jalapeño for a little kick.
Mustard Twist
Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of Dijon or whole-grain mustard during the simmering stage for a tangy, slightly creamy texture.
Beer Infusion
Replace the broth with light beer (like lager or pilsner) to add a subtle maltiness and depth of flavor—a nod to classic German-style cooking.
Tips for the Perfect Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
- Drain the sauerkraut well: This prevents the dish from becoming watery and ensures a more balanced flavor.
- Brown the sausages properly: Take your time to let them caramelize for that deep, smoky flavor.
- Use the right potatoes: Waxy potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes) hold their shape better in the skillet.
- Don’t overcook the sauerkraut: It should stay slightly crisp for a pleasant texture contrast.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the skillet to sit for a few minutes so the flavors can fully meld together.
- Serve with a side: Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a dollop of sour cream complement this dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
This dish keeps beautifully for later meals. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Cool completely: Let the skillet contents cool to room temperature before storing.
- Store in an airtight container: Keeps the flavor intact and prevents dryness.
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Freeze (optional): You can freeze the dish for up to 2–3 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Serving Suggestions
The Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet pairs beautifully with:
- Rye or sourdough bread for soaking up the flavorful juices
- Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for extra comfort
- A crisp green salad to balance the richness
- German mustard or spicy brown mustard as a condiment
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. It reheats very well, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day leftovers. Simply reheat over medium heat with a splash of broth to refresh the flavors.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Smoked kielbasa is traditional, but bratwurst, Polish sausage, or even spicy Italian sausage all work wonderfully.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. The sauerkraut and potatoes will still deliver excellent flavor.
Why add caraway seeds?
Caraway adds an authentic German touch and enhances the sauerkraut’s tangy flavor. It’s optional but highly recommended.
Can I use canned sauerkraut?
Yes, canned sauerkraut works fine—just drain it thoroughly and rinse lightly if you prefer a milder taste.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet is a heartwarming classic that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort. Its bold, tangy, and savory notes make it the perfect meal for cold evenings or any time you crave something satisfying and easy to prepare.
With minimal ingredients and just one skillet, you can create a dish that feels like a culinary hug—rich in tradition, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or as a next-day leftover, every bite delivers cozy, old-world goodness.