What type of sausage works best?

Smoked varieties such as kielbasa or bratwurst offer rich, savory flavors that complement sauerkraut.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free sausage and check sauerkraut packaging to avoid added gluten.

Rinsing moderates tanginess; for more intense flavor, simply drain before use.

Boiled potatoes, rye bread, or sour cream are excellent accompaniments to enhance the meal.

Pear adds a delicate sweetness; feel free to swap for a subtle flavor variation.

Caraway seed is optional, but it imparts a classic German flavor profile to the dish.

A hearty, rustic skillet dish featuring tangy sauerkraut, savory sausage, and aromatic vegetables—perfect for a cozy, comforting meal.

This is a dish my grandma used to make, filling our home with a comforting aroma that always signaled a special evening.

Smoked sausage: 400 g (14 oz) such as kielbasa or bratwurst, sliced into 1 cm (½ inch) rounds
Medium onion: 1 thinly sliced
Medium apple: 1 peeled, cored, and diced
Garlic cloves: 2 minced
Sauerkraut: 500 g (18 oz) rinsed and drained
Low-sodium chicken broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp
Caraway seeds: 1 tsp (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
Chopped fresh parsley: 1 tbsp (for garnish)
Vegetable oil or unsalted butter: 1 tbsp

Prepare the skillet:: Heat the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Brown the sausage:: Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
Sauté aromatics:: In the same skillet, add onion and apple. Sauté for 4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic:: Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine ingredients:: Stir in sauerkraut, chicken broth, mustard, caraway seeds (if using), and black pepper. Mix well.
Simmer:: Return sausage to the skillet, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Thicken:: Remove lid and cook for 3 more minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve:: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

We always enjoyed this dish during family gatherings, a simple yet delicious meal that brought everyone together around the table.

Contains: Mustard (from Dijon mustard), possible gluten (if sausage is not gluten-free)
May contain: Sulfites (in some sauerkraut)
Always double-check sausage and sauerkraut labels for allergens.

This sauerkraut & sausage skillet is a comforting classic that's easy to make and guaranteed to please with its rich, savory flavors.

→ What type of sausage works best?: Smoked varieties such as kielbasa or bratwurst offer rich, savory flavors that complement sauerkraut.
→ Can I make it gluten-free?: Yes, use gluten-free sausage and check sauerkraut packaging to avoid added gluten.
→ Should sauerkraut be rinsed before cooking?: Rinsing moderates tanginess; for more intense flavor, simply drain before use.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?: Boiled potatoes, rye bread, or sour cream are excellent accompaniments to enhance the meal.
→ Can apples be replaced with other fruits?: Pear adds a delicate sweetness; feel free to swap for a subtle flavor variation.
→ Is caraway seed necessary?: Caraway seed is optional, but it imparts a classic German flavor profile to the dish.