Hearty Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe

Savory Sausage, Potato, and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe

Comfort meets simplicity in this hearty sausage, potato, and sauerkraut skillet that promises to warm your soul.

Packed with robust flavors and rustic charm, this one-pan wonder delivers a satisfying meal in minutes.

German-inspired ingredients dance together, creating a symphony of taste and texture.

Each bite brings a rich blend of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and tangy sauerkraut.

The skillet method ensures crispy edges and deep, melded flavors that sing with every forkful.

The recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a rustic feast that feels both familiar and exciting.

You won’t be able to resist this hearty, no-fuss dinner that brings the essence of traditional comfort cooking straight to your table.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients Used In Creamy Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet

For Protein:
  • Sausage: Robust meat that adds smoky depth and hearty flavor, choose a high-quality smoked or Polish-style sausage for authentic taste.
  • Chicken Broth: Creates rich liquid base, opt for low-sodium version to control overall saltiness.
For Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion: Provides sweet foundational flavor, select firm onions without soft spots.
  • Garlic: Delivers intense aromatic punch, fresh cloves offer superior taste compared to pre-minced varieties.
  • Baby Potatoes: Creamy textured base that absorbs surrounding flavors, choose uniform-sized potatoes for even cooking.
  • Sauerkraut: Tangy fermented cabbage that adds zesty brightness, look for unpasteurized version for deeper probiotic benefits.
For Creamy and Finishing Elements:
  • Heavy Cream: Transforms dish into luxurious comfort food, use full-fat version for richest texture.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds sharp complexity and helps emulsify sauce, whole grain varieties provide extra texture.
  • Caraway Seeds: Optional aromatic spice that complements Eastern European flavor profile.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish that provides fresh herbal note, chop just before serving.
  • Olive Oil: Creates initial cooking foundation, choose extra virgin for best flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance overall taste, adjust according to personal preference.

Tools Needed For Creamy Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet

  • Large Skillet: Essential for cooking all ingredients and creating a one-pan meal with maximum flavor.
  • Cutting Board: Perfect for safely slicing sausage and chopping onions and garlic.
  • Sharp Knife: Key for precise ingredient preparation and clean cuts.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients and preventing sticking during cooking.
  • Measuring Cups: Helpful for accurately adding broth and cream.
  • Measuring Spoons: Useful for precise seasoning with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
  • Serving Platter or Individual Plates: For presenting the delicious finished dish.

Steps For Creamy Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet

  • Sizzle the Sausage

Toss sliced sausage into a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil. Cook until each piece turns a gorgeous golden brown, creating those irresistible crispy edges. Scoop out the sausage and set aside.

  • Dance the Onions and Garlic

In the same sizzling pan, swirl chopped onions around until they become soft and glassy. Sprinkle in minced garlic and let it release its magical aroma for a quick minute.

  • Crisp the Potatoes

Slide baby potatoes into the skillet, letting them tumble and brown. Shake and stir occasionally to ensure they develop a beautiful caramelized exterior.

  • Combine and Simmer

Tumble sauerkraut into the pan, sprinkle caraway seeds, and return the sausage. Pour chicken broth over everything, letting the ingredients get acquainted. Cover and let everything bubble gently.

  • Create the Creamy Finish

Drizzle heavy cream and a dollop of mustard into the skillet. Let the sauce thicken and marry all the flavors together. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

  • Plate and Celebrate

Scatter fresh parsley on top and serve this hearty skillet directly from the pan. Grab some crusty bread or noodles and dig in!

Tips To Adjust Creamy Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet

  • Quick Sauerkraut Skillet Cooking Tips & Variations
  • Potato Perfection: Par-boil potatoes for 5 minutes before adding to skillet to ensure faster, more even cooking and a crispy exterior.
  • Sausage Selection: Experiment with different sausage varieties like bratwurst, Polish kielbasa, or spicy Italian sausage to change flavor profiles and match personal preferences.
  • Low-Carb Option: Replace baby potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version that maintains the dish's hearty texture and rich taste.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream to create a creamy consistency while keeping the recipe dairy-free and suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Transform leftovers by adding beaten eggs and creating a delicious breakfast skillet with the same ingredients for a quick morning meal.

How To Serve Creamy Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet

  • Comfort Food Combo: Pair this hearty skillet with crusty sourdough bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and catch every flavor-packed bite.
  • Noodle Nest Base: Serve the sausage and potato mixture over wide egg noodles for a comforting, filling meal that transforms the skillet into a complete dinner experience.
  • Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill or chives on top for a bright, zesty contrast to the rich and creamy sausage mixture, adding a pop of color and freshness.
  • Side Salad Companion: Add a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the skillet, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy, savory dish.

Keep Creamy Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet Fresh

  • Quick Meal Prep Strategy: Chop all ingredients before starting to cook, ensuring a smooth and efficient cooking process without last-minute rushing.
  • Smart Refrigeration Technique: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days, keeping the skillet's flavors intact and ready for quick reheating.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Portion and freeze the meal in sealed containers for up to 2 months, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected dinner challenges.
  • Reheating Magic Trick: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy texture and prevent drying out the sausage and potatoes.
Print
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Hearty Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe

Hearty Sausage, Potato, And Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe


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4.5 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Hearty Polish-inspired Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Sauerkraut Skillet delivers comfort in one pan. Simple ingredients blend perfectly for a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (0.45 kg) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
  • 1 pound (0.45 kg) baby potatoes, halved or quartered
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon or whole-grain mustard
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sausage Searing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium flame. Brown sausage slices on all sides until golden, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Aromatic Base: In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute, releasing its fragrant essence.
  3. Potato Caramelization: Introduce baby potatoes to the skillet, rotating to develop a crisp golden exterior for 6-7 minutes.
  4. Flavor Fusion: Combine sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and previously seared sausage. Pour chicken broth to create a simmering liquid base.
  5. Gentle Simmer: Reduce heat, cover skillet, and allow ingredients to meld and potatoes to tenderize for 12-15 minutes.
  6. Creamy Finish: Whisk heavy cream and mustard into the mixture. Uncover and let sauce thicken for 4-5 minutes.
  7. Serving Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or egg noodles for a robust, satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Optimize Sausage Selection: Choose high-quality smoked or Polish-style sausages for deeper flavor complexity and authentic texture.
  • Control Potato Tenderness: Cut baby potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and prevent underdone or mushy sections during skillet preparation.
  • Manage Sauerkraut Intensity: Rinse sauerkraut briefly to reduce excessive saltiness while preserving its tangy characteristic, especially for sensitive palates.
  • Balance Cream Consistency: Add cream gradually and maintain low heat to prevent sauce separation, ensuring smooth and silky final texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

Nutritional Analysis​, Dietary Accommodations​, Food Writing and Blogging​,

Education

University of Texas at Austin

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
  • Focus: Emphasis on dietary planning, food science, and the relationship between nutrition and health.​

Institute of Culinary Education, New York, NY

  • Program: Plant-Based Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized training in vegetarian and vegan cooking techniques, emphasizing whole foods and sustainability.​

Olivia Bennett is Cooking Crusade’s go-to expert for nutritious, feel-good food. Based in Austin, she blends her degree in Nutrition from the University of Texas with plant-based culinary training from the Institute of Culinary Education.

Olivia’s recipes are all about balance: vibrant, wholesome, and easy-to-love dishes that work for all kinds of eaters. Her mission is simple: to make healthy eating approachable and genuinely tasty, with tips that support your lifestyle, not complicate it.

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