Kielbasa And Sauerkraut Recipe

This heartwarming Kielbasa and Sauerkraut is a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors that come together in your slow cooker with minimal effort. The combination of juicy kielbasa, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet onions creates a deliciously balanced meal that practically cooks itself. It’s the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Smoked kielbasa: The star of the show that provides a wonderful smoky flavor and hearty texture. Make sure to slice it thinly for the best flavor distribution.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth that beautifully balances the tanginess of the sauerkraut. Slicing into thin quarter moons helps them melt into the dish.
• Brown monk fruit sweetener: Optional but recommended to balance the tartness of the sauerkraut. You can substitute with regular brown sugar if not concerned about sugar content.
• Sauerkraut: Provides that distinctive tangy flavor and creates the base for this dish. Make sure to drain it well to prevent excess liquid.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds a pleasant acidity and subtle sweetness that complements the sauerkraut perfectly. Again, drain well to control moisture.
• Chicken broth: Creates steam and moisture in the slow cooker, helping everything cook evenly while adding another layer of flavor.

Variations

Different Meat Options

Try substituting the kielbasa with smoked bratwurst, Polish sausage, or even chunks of ham for a different flavor profile.

Add Some Heat

Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to give your dish a spicy kick.

Extra Veggies

Toss in some sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even apples for added texture and flavor variety.

Beer Instead of Broth

Replace the chicken broth with a cup of beer (preferably a lager or amber ale) for a more robust flavor that pairs wonderfully with the kielbasa.

How to Make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

Step 1: Layer the Ingredients

Place the thinly sliced kielbasa in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavor-packed foundation for the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Add Onions and Sweetener

Scatter the sliced onions over the kielbasa, then sprinkle your brown monk fruit sweetener (or brown sugar) evenly over the onions.

Step 3: Add Sauerkraut and Tomatoes

Drain your sauerkraut and diced tomatoes well, then add them to the slow cooker, spreading them evenly over the previous layers.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Add the chicken broth, pouring it around the edges rather than directly on top to preserve your layers.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on Low for 4-6 hours or on High for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the onions are translucent and the flavors have melded beautifully.

How to Serve

As a Main Dish

Serve in bowls with crusty rye bread or warm dinner rolls on the side for soaking up the flavorful juices.

Sandwich Style

Pile the kielbasa and sauerkraut onto toasted rolls with a smear of whole grain mustard for an incredible sandwich.

With Sides

Pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill adds a nice touch of color and freshness to this hearty dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just leave a little space at the top for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger amounts, reheat covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).

FAQs

Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh sauerkraut from the refrigerated section will work beautifully in this recipe. You’ll still want to drain it well, but it will provide an even more vibrant tangy flavor than canned varieties.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No problem! You can make this dish in a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Simply layer everything as directed, bring to a simmer on the stovetop, then cover and transfer to a 325°F oven for about 1.5 hours, or continue simmering on low heat for about an hour.

Can I make this dish less tangy?
If you find sauerkraut too tangy, you can rinse it briefly before adding it to the recipe. Additionally, increasing the sweetener will help balance the tanginess. Some people also like to add a grated apple for natural sweetness.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Using the brown monk fruit sweetener (or omitting sweetener altogether) makes this a perfect low-carb, keto-friendly meal. Just be sure to check your kielbasa and sauerkraut labels, as some brands add sugar or other carb-containing ingredients.

This Kielbasa and Sauerkraut recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into something truly special with practically zero effort on your part. It’s the perfect solution for busy days when you want a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss. The combination of smoky sausage with tangy sauerkraut creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give it a try the next time you’re craving something satisfying that practically cooks itself!

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