Get ready to cozy up with these 18 deliciously comforting recipes that combine the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of sausage. From hearty stews to flavorful skillets, and from casseroles to stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone in this collection of comfort food recipes.
Sauerkraut adds a unique depth of flavor to any dish, and when paired with juicy sausage, it’s a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In the following pages, we’ll explore everything from classic German-inspired dishes like slow-cooked sauerkraut and kielbasa stew, to international twists like Hungarian kolbász with sauerkraut and potatoes. With so many options, you’re bound to find something that satisfies your cravings and warms your belly.
Slow-Cooked Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Stew
This hearty stew combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut with spicy kielbasa sausage, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, this recipe is a great option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the kielbasa sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Transfer the sausage to the slow cooker. Add the sauerkraut, onion, garlic, chicken broth, brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
German-Style Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of classic German sausage with tangy sauerkraut, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb German-style sausage (such as bratwurst or knockwurst), sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Polish Bigos (Hunter’s Stew) with Sauerkraut
Bigos, also known as Hunter’s Stew, is a hearty and flavorful Polish dish that originated from the country’s hunting traditions. This recipe combines sauerkraut with a rich broth and various meats to create a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 pound pork sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage and set aside. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the stew for at least 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Smoked Sausage and Sauerkraut Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage with tangy sauerkraut and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, boil 2-3 potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of sauerkraut, followed by a layer of cooked sausage, then a layer of mashed potatoes.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese over the top layer of potatoes.
6. Dot the top with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beer-Braised Bratwurst with Sauerkraut
Transform plain bratwurst into a hearty, flavorful dish by slow-cooking it in beer and serving it with tangy sauerkraut. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bratwurst
– 1/2 cup dark lager or brown ale
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the bratwurst to the pot, browning them on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the beer and bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 1 hour, or until the sausages are tender and infused with beer flavor.
8. Serve the bratwurst with warmed sauerkraut and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Sauerkraut and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of sausage for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and caraway seeds to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in sauerkraut and season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture and cover with the pepper tops.
7. Spray or drizzle the peppers with cooking spray or oil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Sauerkraut and Sausage Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of sausage. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in sauerkraut, chicken broth, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Sauerkraut Sausage Bake
Caramelized Onion and Sauerkraut Sausage Bake Recipe
Summary:
This hearty sausage bake combines sweet caramelized onions, tangy sauerkraut, and savory sausage for a satisfying one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sausage links (such as bratwurst or Italian sausage)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the sauerkraut, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Place the sausage links on top of the onion mixture in the skillet.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Kolbász with Sauerkraut and Potatoes
This traditional Hungarian dish combines the savory flavors of kolbász sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Hungarian-style kolbász sausage
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the kolbász sausage according to package instructions or grill until browned.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Add sauerkraut to the skillet and stir to combine with potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the cooked kolbász sausage alongside the potato-sauerkraut mixture.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Grilled Sausage with Warm Sauerkraut Slaw
Grilled Sausage with Warm Sauerkraut Slaw: A classic combination of savory sausage and tangy sauerkraut, elevated by the warmth of a sunny day. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an appetizer at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 grilled sausages (such as bratwurst or knockwurst)
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill sausages according to package instructions or until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side).
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and caraway seeds; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sauerkraut to the pan, stirring to combine with the butter mixture. Cook until warmed through (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve grilled sausages with warm sauerkraut slaw and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sauerkraut and Sausage Pierogi Filling
Elevate your pierogi game with this savory and tangy filling, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and sour sauerkraut and spicy sausage. This unique combination will add a delicious twist to traditional Polish cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sauerkraut (drained)
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as kielbasa or knockwurst), crumbled
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine sauerkraut, sausage, caraway seeds, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This filling is ready to use straight away.
Apple-Infused Sauerkraut and Sausage Skillet
Transform your taste buds with this hearty skillet recipe, where tangy sauerkraut meets sweet apple flavors paired with juicy sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or similar)
– 4 sweet Italian sausage links, casings removed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds for added depth
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add apple and cook until slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sauerkraut and sausage; stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sausage is browned and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with caraway seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bavarian Sausage and Sauerkraut Dumplings
A hearty German-inspired dish that combines the flavors of savory sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a main course for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Bavarian sausage (such as Bratwurst), sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the sauerkraut and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. To make the dumplings, combine the flour, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the sausage and sauerkraut mixture; cover with foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through and the sausage is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crockpot Sauerkraut and Smoked Sausage Delight
Transform your crockpot into a savory wonderland with this easy-to-make dish that combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the rich taste of smoked sausage. This comforting meal is perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced sausage in the crockpot.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the sausage.
3. Pour in the sauerkraut, followed by the caraway seeds.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mustard-Glazed Sausage with Tangy Sauerkraut
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this sweet and tangy sausage recipe. The combination of mustard-glazed sausage and tangy sauerkraut is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 smoked sausages (such as bratwurst or knockwurst)
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, vinegar, and brown sugar.
3. Brush the glaze onto the sausages during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
4. Grill the sausages for about 10-12 minutes total, turning occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sauerkraut and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve the glazed sausage with tangy sauerkraut alongside.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Rustic Sauerkraut and Sausage Flatbread
A hearty and flavorful flatbread filled with tangy sauerkraut, savory sausage, and crispy onions. Perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb all-purpose flour
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough on a floured surface and shape into a rectangle.
6. Brush with olive oil and top with sauerkraut, sausage, and caramelized onions.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Note: Caramelize onions by cooking them in a pan with 1 tbsp of oil over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Spicy Andouille and Sauerkraut Jambalaya
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy Andouille sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and traditional jambalaya ingredients for a unique twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, cooked rice, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Return sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caraway-Seasoned Sauerkraut and Sausage Bake
Caraway-Seasoned Sauerkraut and Sausage Bake: A Hearty Winter Delight
This comforting dish combines the tangy, fermented flavor of sauerkraut with the savory taste of sausage, all wrapped up in a warm, caraway-spiced blanket.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sauerkraut
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet, cooking until browned on both sides, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Stir in the caraway seeds and sauerkraut. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauerkraut is bubbly and the sausage is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 savory sauerkraut and sausage recipes that will warm your heart and belly! From hearty stews to comforting casseroles, and from classic German dishes to spicy jambalayas, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked sauerkraut and kielbasa stew, German-style sausage and sauerkraut skillet, or Polish bigos with sauerkraut. Or go bold with beer-braised bratwurst with sauerkraut or spicy Andouille and sauerkraut jambalaya. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.