Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
A hearty one-pan meal featuring savory sausage, tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and tender potatoes. This German-American classic is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and comes together in under an hour.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown the Sausage
- b.In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the sliced kielbasa in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid crowding). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until well-browned and slightly crispy.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the browned sausage to a plate and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Potatoes
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet.
- c.Add the sliced yellow onion and cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- d.Add the baby potatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing them to get some color on the edges.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Deglaze and Combine
- b.Pour in the apple cider to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This adds a lot of flavor.
- c.Stir in the drained sauerkraut, chopped apple, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and caraway seeds.
- d.Mix everything thoroughly to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer Until Tender
- b.Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
- c.The dish is ready for the next step when the potatoes are fork-tender.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Uncover the skillet and return the browned sausage to the pan.
- c.Stir to combine and continue to cook, uncovered, for another 3-5 minutes to heat the sausage through and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- d.Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Be mindful that sausage and sauerkraut are already salty.
- e.Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, ensure the sausage is well-browned. The caramelized bits on the bottom of the pan (fond) are key to a rich sauce.
- 2If you find sauerkraut too tangy, you can rinse it under cold water and squeeze it dry before adding it to the skillet.
- 3Use a firm, crisp apple like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn that will hold its shape during cooking.
- 4This dish is even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sausage Swap
Use other smoked sausages like andouille for a spicy kick, or try it with fresh bratwurst (ensure it's fully cooked through).
Vegetable AdditionVegetable Addition
Add sliced carrots or parsnips along with the potatoes for extra sweetness and nutrition.
Liquid ChangeLiquid Change
Substitute the apple cider with a light German-style beer, like a pilsner or lager, for a different flavor profile.
Herb InfusionHerb Infusion
Add a bay leaf and a sprig of fresh thyme along with the sauerkraut for a more aromatic dish. Remove before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Supports Gut Health
Sauerkraut is a fermented food rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in your digestive system, improving digestion and overall gut health.
Rich in Vitamin C
Both sauerkraut and potatoes are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and helps protect cells from damage.
Good Source of Fiber
With contributions from the potatoes, apple, and sauerkraut, this dish provides dietary fiber, which is important for digestive regularity and can help you feel full and satisfied.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this dish contains approximately 580-620 calories, depending on the type of sausage used. It's a hearty and satisfying meal.