If you’re craving something hearty, cozy, and packed with flavor, but don’t want to dirty every pan in the kitchen, this Kielbasa & Sauerkraut Skillet is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of meal that feels rustic and comforting, with smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and that perfect tang from sauerkraut. Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and dinner even easier.
Whether you grew up with dishes like this or it’s brand new to your table, this quick and satisfying recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the main ingredients.
Slice the kielbasa into chunky pieces and give the sauerkraut a quick rinse under cool water to mellow out the saltiness. Let it drain well so your skillet doesn’t get watery.
2. Brown the sausage.
Heat a little oil in a large skillet and sear the sausage until it gets golden around the edges. This deep browning adds tons of flavor. Once it’s nicely caramelized, transfer it to a plate.
3. Cook the potatoes and aromatics.
In the same skillet, add the onions, garlic, and diced potatoes. Cover the pan and let everything cook together, stirring now and then, until the potatoes begin to soften and the onions turn lightly golden.
4. Add the sauerkraut and broth.
Stir in the drained sauerkraut, and if you enjoy that classic German flavor, sprinkle in a bit of caraway. Pour a splash of chicken broth into the skillet to help everything meld together.
5. Bring it all together.
Add the browned sausage back to the pan. Cover the skillet again and let everything warm through until the potatoes are fully tender and the flavors have come together. If the mixture looks dry, add a little more broth.
6. Taste and adjust.
Give it a final seasoning with salt, pepper, or anything else you love and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Rinse the sauerkraut well.
This removes excess brine and keeps the dish from becoming overly salty. - Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet.
The sausage browns beautifully and the potatoes cook evenly. - Customize it.
Add sliced apples for sweetness, red pepper flakes for heat, or swap in smoked sausage if that’s what you have. - Keep the moisture balanced.
If the skillet dries out while cooking, just add a splash more broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have to rinse the sauerkraut?
Rinsing helps reduce saltiness and sharpness, but if you love strong sauerkraut flavor, you can skip this step.
2. Can I use canned sauerkraut?
Yes, but refrigerated sauerkraut has a fresher, crunchier texture and better flavor. If using canned, drain and rinse it well.
3. What other vegetables can I add?
Carrots, sliced apples, bell peppers, or even shredded cabbage work beautifully in this dish.
4. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave, and the flavors actually deepen after a day in the fridge.
5. What’s the best sausage to use?
Traditional kielbasa is perfect, but smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage are great substitutes.