This Polish Sausage Sauerkraut Potatoes is pure comfort food bliss. It’s a family favorite in our house, perfect for chilly evenings or weekend gatherings. The combination of smoky sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes is simply irresistible, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it simmers is heavenly.
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. With just a few readily available ingredients, you can create a deeply satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s also incredibly versatile – feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonings or add-ins to make it your own. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love It
This hearty dish offers a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors that complement each other perfectly. The Polish sausage provides a rich, meaty base, while the sauerkraut adds a vibrant tang and the potatoes offer comforting heartiness. It’s a complete meal in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and the result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.
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Polish Sausage Sauerkraut and Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Description
This hearty one-pan meal combines smoky Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes for a comforting and flavorful dish. It’s easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. A true comfort food classic!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Polish sausage (kielbasa)
- 3 cups sauerkraut
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 large onion (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings: Bay leaf, caraway seeds, thyme, or garlic
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice kielbasa, dice potatoes, slice onion (optional), and drain sauerkraut.
- Brown the Sausage: Brown kielbasa in butter/oil over medium heat. Set aside.
- Sauté Potatoes and Onions: Sauté potatoes and onions in the same skillet until softened.
- Add Sauerkraut and Sausage: Combine sauerkraut and browned kielbasa with potatoes and onions.
- Simmer: Pour in broth/water, cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley (optional).
Notes
For a richer flavor, use smoked Polish sausage. Rinsing the sauerkraut before adding it to the pot will mellow its tanginess. If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, water works just as well, but you might want to add a bouillon cube for extra flavor. This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Polish
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this delicious Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes:
- 1 lb Polish sausage (kielbasa): Look for good quality smoked kielbasa for the best flavor.
- 3 cups sauerkraut: Drained and rinsed (unless you prefer a stronger tang). Fresh sauerkraut is ideal.
- 4 medium potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 large onion: Thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice sweetness).
- 1 tbsp butter or oil: For sautéing.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water: Adds moisture and helps the flavors meld.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Optional seasonings: Bay leaf, caraway seeds, thyme, or garlic.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Slice the kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. If using, thinly slice the onion. Drain the sauerkraut well, rinsing it if you prefer a milder flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Potatoes and Onions
Add the diced potatoes and sliced onions (if using) to the same skillet. Sauté for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes start to soften and turn golden brown. Stir occasionally.
Step 4: Add Sauerkraut and Sausage
Add the drained sauerkraut to the skillet and stir well to combine with the potatoes and onions. Return the browned kielbasa to the pan.
Step 5: Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth or water. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a bay leaf or a teaspoon of caraway seeds to the skillet while simmering. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a delicious depth.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the sausage. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. For a quicker weeknight dinner try our quick kimchi jjigae.
- If you prefer a sweeter sauerkraut, add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar during the simmering process.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the skillet for a spicy twist.
- Apple-Kraut Fusion: Incorporate diced apples during the last 15 minutes of simmering for a touch of sweetness and a hint of fall flavor. Explore our desserts for more sweet treats.
- Hearty Hunter’s Style: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the potatoes and onions for a more substantial meal.
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?
While you can use fresh cabbage, it won’t have the same distinct tangy flavor as sauerkraut. If using fresh cabbage, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are recommended as they hold their shape well during cooking. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they tend to break down more easily.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the ingredients of your sausage and any additional seasonings to confirm they don’t contain gluten.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and potatoes as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the sauerkraut, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is wonderful on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful juices. A dollop of mustard or horseradish adds a nice kick. Check out our Dinner Recipes for more inspiration.
A side of steamed green beans or a simple salad can also complement the heartiness of the meal.
Final Thoughts
This Polish Sausage Sauerkraut Potatoes recipe is a true comfort food classic, bringing together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and share the warmth with your loved ones! Be sure to try our other amazing recipes. Connect with us on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram to share your culinary creations and discover more delicious inspiration!
