When it comes to comfort food, there are few combinations as satisfying as sauerkraut and sausage. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor of fermented cabbage pairs perfectly with the rich, meaty taste of a well-made sausage. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and stew-like or a quick weeknight meal, this dynamic duo has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious sauerkraut and sausage recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic German-inspired dishes like braised sauerkraut and bratwurst to spicy Andouille-infused jambalaya, there’s something for every palate and cooking style.
Slow Cooker Sauerkraut and Sausage Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly winter day. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to come home to a deliciously flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sliced sausage, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sauerkraut, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour mixture over the sausage and vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
A classic combination of flavors, this skillet recipe brings together the savory taste of Polish sausage and the tangy crunch of sauerkraut.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Polish sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced Polish sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and sauerkraut to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. Return the cooked Polish sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauerkraut mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German-Style Sauerkraut and Bratwurst Bake
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of bratwurst, perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb German-style bratwurst sausage
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bratwurst into 1-inch pieces and cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked bratwurst, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoked Sausage and Sauerkraut Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the rich taste of smoked sausage with the tanginess of sauerkraut, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sauerkraut, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for added richness.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Casserole
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Casserole: A hearty, comforting twist on traditional pierogi, combining the flavors of Eastern Europe with a creamy, cheesy casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen pierogi (about 20-25 pieces)
– 1 pound Kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pierogi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside with cooked pierogi.
4. In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and sauerkraut; cook until onion is translucent and sauerkraut is heated through.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pierogi, Kielbasa mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Pour heavy cream over top and mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and continue baking until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes more.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Sauerkraut and Sausage with Apples
This comforting dish combines the tanginess of sauerkraut, the savory flavor of sausage, and the sweetness of apples in a single pot. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauerkraut, apples, apple cider vinegar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the sausage to the pot and add enough water to cover the ingredients.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauerkraut is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beer-Braised Sauerkraut and Sausage
This comforting recipe combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut with the richness of beer-braised sausage, perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or bratwurst), sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 12 oz. dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sauerkraut, beer, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the pot and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until the sauerkraut is tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Hungarian Sauerkraut and Kolbász Goulash
This hearty goulash is a classic Hungarian dish that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the rich flavor of kolbász sausage. Serve over egg noodles or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kolbász sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove sausage from pot; set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, and sauerkraut. Cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return sausage to pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Sausage with Caramelized Sauerkraut
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled sausage and caramelized sauerkraut. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 German-style sausages (such as bratwurst or knockwurst)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 buns for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. While sausages are grilling, combine onion and brown sugar in a pan over medium-low heat.
4. Cook onion mixture for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. Add sauerkraut to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve grilled sausages with caramelized sauerkraut and buns.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sauerkraut and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Add a twist to traditional stuffed peppers with the tangy flavor of sauerkraut and savory sausage. This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture, followed by sauerkraut.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top peppers with cheese (if using); return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crockpot Sauerkraut and Smoked Sausage
A hearty and flavorful combination that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tangy sauerkraut with savory smoked sausage, all slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty Crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as bratwurst or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced sausage, chopped sauerkraut, onion, garlic, and caraway seeds to your Crockpot.
2. Sprinkle the brown sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Bavarian Sauerkraut and Sausage Dumplings
A classic German dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, these savory dumplings combine the tanginess of sauerkraut with the richness of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and chopped)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 pound German sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder, and caraway seeds.
3. Add melted butter, chopped sauerkraut, and beaten egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shapes.
5. Place a slice of sausage in the center of each dumpling. Fold the dumplings over to enclose the sausage.
6. Place the dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Sauerkraut and Sausage
Get ready for a tangy and savory twist on traditional sauerkraut! This recipe combines the natural fermentation of sauerkraut with the rich flavor of sausage, all in the comfort of your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sauerkraut, drained
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds (optional)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot for 5 minutes.
2. Add the sausage slices to the pot and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the drained sauerkraut, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and chicken broth to the pot.
5. Stir well to combine and close the lid.
6. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sauerkraut and Sausage Pizza with Mustard Drizzle
Elevate your pizza game with this bold and tangy combination of flavors. The sweetness of the caramelized sauerkraut pairs perfectly with the savory sausage, all on top of a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mustard drizzle: 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard, 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Top with sauerkraut, sausage slices, mozzarella cheese, and caraway seeds.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. While pizza bakes, mix mustard drizzle ingredients in a small bowl.
8. Remove pizza from oven and drizzle with mustard mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rustic Sauerkraut and Sausage Tart
Rustic Sauerkraut and Sausage Tart: A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of sausage, all wrapped up in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup of sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 4 slices of cooked sausage (such as kielbasa or bratwurst), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the sausage and cook until browned.
4. Spread the sauerkraut over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Top the sauerkraut with the cooked sausage mixture, spreading it out evenly.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the top of the tart with the beaten egg and sprinkle with caraway seeds.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Sauerkraut and Sausage Breakfast Hash
Kickstart your day with a tangy twist on the classic breakfast hash. This recipe combines spicy sauerkraut with savory sausage, crunchy potatoes, and creamy eggs for a flavorful and filling morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (such as chorizo or Italian), casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– Optional: Chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave any drippings in the pan.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the same skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
5. Stir in the chopped sauerkraut and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
6. Make two wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
Cooking Time: About 25 minutes
Spicy Andouille and Sauerkraut Jambalaya
Spicy Andouille and Sauerkraut Jambalaya Recipe
This hearty one-pot dish combines the spicy kick of Andouille sausage with the tangy flavor of sauerkraut, all wrapped up in a flavorful jambalaya. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Spicy Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large cast-iron pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt; cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, and cooked rice; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let jambalaya cook for 10-15 minutes, or until liquid has been absorbed and flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caraway-Infused Sauerkraut and Sausage Bake
This hearty, flavorful dish combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of sausage and caraway seeds. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage (such as bratwurst or knockwurst), casings removed
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add sauerkraut, caraway seeds, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the sauerkraut is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 flavorful sauerkraut and sausage recipes perfect for comfort food lovers. From hearty stews and casseroles to savory skillets and soups, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at slow-cooked masterpieces like Sauerkraut and Sausage Stew or Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet. Alternatively, go bold with beer-braised sauerkraut and sausage or make a statement with Rustic Sauerkraut and Sausage Tart. These recipes will warm your belly and your heart this season.
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